IT Director, Network Engineering and Operations

Department

OPS ITS - Chief Technology Office

About the Department

This role is critical to provide dedicated leadership for our increasingly complex Microsoft and cloud infrastructure environment, which now spans on-prem Windows servers, M365, and multiple public cloud platforms. Without dedicated leadership, the team continues to face increased operational risk and reduced ability to maintain reliable services.

Job Summary

The IT Director for Network Engineering and Operations provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and technical guidance for the planning, design, deployment, and management of the University's data network infrastructure. This position oversees a team responsible for network engineering and operations ensuring reliable, high-performance, and scalable connectivity in support of the University’s academic, research, and administrative missions.

Responsibilities

• Directs the design, implementation, and administration of the data network infrastructure including both campus and off-campus sites.
• Leads and mentors a multidisciplinary team of network engineers, architects, and operational staff. 
• Develops, implements, and maintains high-availability network services, including LAN, WAN, wireless, and remote access.
• Establishes and enforces network policies, standards, procedures, and best practices for performance, security, and compliance.
• Oversees network monitoring, incident response, vulnerability management, and disaster recovery planning.
• Collaborates with campus stakeholders to understand evolving connectivity needs and supports strategic initiatives and projects.
• Manages vendor relationships, contracts, and procurement related to network hardware, software, and services.
• Prepares and administers budgets for network operations, equipment refresh cycles, and technology upgrades.
• Stays abreast of emerging technologies and trends to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Ensures ongoing documentation, reporting, and communication with senior leadership regarding network health, projects, risks, and metrics.
• Participates in University-wide committees and workgroups related to IT infrastructure and security.
• Manages employees through subordinates, usually other managers. Establishes performance goals, allocates resources and assesses policies for direct subordinates.
• Determines plans to sustain and improve the University's Networking Services and Information Technologies (NSIT) network. Creates strategic plans for network design, implementation, and upgrades/modifications to existing networks.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 10+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, or related field.
• Master’s degree strongly preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and operations, with at least 3 years in supervisory or managerial roles.
• Managing large-scale, complex enterprise networks in higher education. 

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• In-depth expertise with Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, or similar enterprise networking platforms.
• Strong knowledge of routing, switching, wireless, and network security protocols and technologies.
• Familiarity with cloud networking, virtualization, SDN, NAC, and related fields.
• Proficient in network monitoring, management, and automation tools.

Preferred Competencies

• Demonstrated success in leading and developing technical teams.
• Clear and effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and organizational skills.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment.
• Occasional after-hours work to support maintenance and incident response.
• Some travel between campus sites.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)

Job Family

Information Technology

Role Impact

People Manager

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$200,000.00 - $212,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.