University of Chicago · 13 hours ago
IT Director, Network Engineering and Operations
Chicago, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$200K/yr - $212K/yr
10+ years expThe University of Chicago is seeking an IT Director for Network Engineering and Operations to provide leadership and strategic direction for their data network infrastructure. This role involves overseeing a team responsible for ensuring reliable and high-performance connectivity to support the University's academic, research, and administrative missions.
Higher Education
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
Qualification
Required
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 10+ years of work experience in a related job discipline
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
References Contact Information (3)(required)
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, or related field
Master's degree strongly preferred
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
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
Demonstrated success in leading and developing technical teams
Clear and effective communication and interpersonal skills
Strong analytical, strategic planning, and organizational skills
Benefits
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.
Company
University of Chicago
One of the world’s great intellectual destinations, the University of Chicago empowers scholars and students to ask tough questions, cross disciplinary boundaries, and challenge conventional thinking to enrich human life around the globe.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
University of Chicago has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (341)
2024 (318)
2023 (285)
2022 (233)
2021 (179)
2020 (172)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Benedicte Nolens
Distinguished Executive in Residence
Recent News
2025-11-08
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2025-10-23
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