Job Description:

Responsible for the design, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of the organization’s network infrastructure, integrating Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems to support business and operational objectives. This role focuses on ensuring network reliability, scalability, and security while addressing day-to-day operational needs and evolving technology requirements.

This position requires expertise in advanced network technologies, including VoIP, LAN/WAN, IP/MPLS, optical networks (CWDM/DWDM), hybrid cloud connectivity, data center interconnect (DCI) networking, and SAN integration. The Network Architect collaborates with cross-functional teams to deliver robust and secure network solutions and ensure compliance with industry standards and cybersecurity regulations.

Tri-State recognizes the value of a highly-engaged and committed workforce and provides an excellent benefits program that includes:

Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Work Schedules including compressed work week and telecommuting opportunities to work remotely up to 50%, Life Insurance, 401K, Long Term Disability (LTD), Short Term Disability (STD), Employee Assistant Program (EAP) and Paid Leave Benefits.

Network Architect

Hiring Salary Range: $106,000-$135,000

Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary outside of the posted hiring salary range based upon work experience, education, and/or skill level.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in designing and maintaining network architectures, including LAN/WAN, IP/MPLS, SD-WAN, and hybrid cloud systems.

• Implement and support network solutions for voice, video, and data communications, including Cisco Unified Communications systems.

• Support the deployment and optimization of IP/MPLS networks for critical OT systems, including SCADA and plant distributed control systems.

• Assist in the configuration and maintenance of data center networking, including VLANs, BGP, VxLAN, and SAN integration.

• Implement and monitor network redundancy solutions, such as load balancing and failover mechanisms for internet and intranet connectivity.

• Support wireless network design and deployment, including Wi-Fi coverage analysis and optimization.

• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and resolve outages promptly to ensure high availability.

• Implement security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, and access controls, to protect network infrastructure.

• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to address vulnerabilities and meet compliance standards, including NERC CIP.

• Maintain detailed documentation of network configurations, processes, and procedures.

• Participate in testing and validation of disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

• Assist in the evaluation and integration of emerging technologies to improve network performance and scalability.

• Provide input on network capacity planning and future needs analysis.

• Support cross-functional teams in implementing new technologies and migrating legacy systems.

• Mentor junior staff members, providing technical guidance and promoting skill development.

• Maintain compliance with all company policies and procedures and attain knowledge and remain knowledgeable of regulations, laws, standards, and best practices applicable to functional area.

• Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.

OTHER DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education and Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, computer science, mathematics, engineering, or a related field.

• One or more relevant certifications (e.g., CCNP, CCDP, Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate, AWS Certified Networking) preferred.

Knowledge and Experience:

• Six (6) years’ experience in designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise and industrial network infrastructures.

• Advanced knowledge of network protocols, infrastructure, and security practices, including MPLS, SD-WAN, and cloud integrations.

• Familiarity with utility-specific technologies and standards, such as SCADA systems and NERC CIP compliance.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

• Effective communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and standards.

Other:

• Willingness to travel as required for project work and meetings throughout service territory by posing a current valid driver's license. Must be able to physically deploy routers, switches, wireless access points, firewalls, and other networking devices.

• Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.

About Us:

Tri-State is a wholesale power supply cooperative, operating on a not-for-profit basis, with 44 members, including 41 utility electric distribution cooperative and public power district members in four states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. Together with its members, Tri-State delivers reliable, affordable and responsible power and energy services to more than a million electricity consumers across nearly 200,000 square miles of the West.

Tri-State was founded in 1952 by its member systems to provide a reliable, cost-based supply of electricity. Headquartered in Westminster, Colo., approximately 1,200 people are employed by Tri-State across five states.

Tri-State's electricity is generated from coal, natural gas and hydropower, with a rapidly increasing supply generated from wind and solar. Tri-State delivers power to its members through a transmission system that includes substation facilities, telecommunications sites and over 5,700 miles of high voltage transmission lines. Tri-State's transformative Responsible Energy Plan is reducing emissions, increasing renewable resources, developing new energy services and delivering more flexibility for its members.

Job Identification: 293

Job Category: Information Technology

Posting Date: 2025-01-09T19:03:08+00:00

Job Schedule: Full time

Hiring Salary Range: $106,000-$135,000

Locations: 1100 W 116th Ave, Westminster, CO, 80234, US

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status.