What's Happening?
National Grid is actively seeking a Senior Network Engineer specializing in wireless technology for its Brooklyn, NY office. This role is crucial for designing, deploying, optimizing, and managing enterprise wireless LAN solutions across various environments,
including office, operational, and industrial settings. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity, conducting wireless surveys, and troubleshooting complex Wi-Fi issues. The position also involves creating low-level designs for Wi-Fi, network access control (NAC), and related network services, as well as producing Bills of Materials for new deployments and hardware upgrades. This hybrid role requires extensive experience with Cisco and Aruba WLAN solutions, including Aruba ClearPass, and proficiency with wireless survey and design tools like Ekahau and Hamina. The engineer will also contribute to alternative connectivity options such as 5G cellular-enabled networking platforms and satellite connectivity, working within a SAFe Agile delivery model.
Why It's Important?
This hiring initiative by National Grid underscores the increasing reliance on advanced wireless infrastructure for critical energy operations in the U.S. The integration of robust and secure wireless networks is vital for maintaining the stability and efficiency of electricity and gas transmission and distribution. By investing in specialized talent for wireless engineering, National Grid aims to enhance its operational resilience, improve user experience, and support the ongoing modernization of its network. The focus on technologies like 5G and SD-WAN indicates a strategic move towards more flexible and resilient energy systems, which are essential for meeting evolving energy demands and ensuring grid reliability. This development is significant for the energy sector as it highlights the growing intersection of IT and operational technology, crucial for a secure and efficient energy supply to millions of homes and businesses in the northeastern United States.
What's Next?
The recruitment process for the Senior Network Engineer position is underway, with National Grid seeking to fill this role to bolster its IT and Digital function. The successful candidate will immediately begin contributing to key initiatives, including the replacement of end-of-life network hardware, enhanced Wi-Fi deployments, and the integration of high-speed internet connectivity services. This will involve close collaboration with various stakeholders across IT, operations, platform teams, vendors, and managed service providers to define requirements, produce robust designs, and support implementation. The role also entails contributing to wireless standards, best practices, and design documentation, ensuring that National Grid's wireless infrastructure remains cutting-edge and aligned with industry best practices. The company's commitment to professional development suggests ongoing investment in its workforce to adapt to technological advancements in the energy sector.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on advanced wireless engineering within National Grid reflects a broader trend in critical infrastructure sectors to leverage digital transformation for operational efficiency and resilience. The deployment of secure and scalable wireless networks is not merely about connectivity; it's about enabling real-time data exchange, supporting smart grid initiatives, and enhancing the overall security posture against cyber threats. The requirement for expertise in NAC solutions like Aruba ClearPass and Cisco ISE highlights the critical importance of identity and access management in securing operational technology environments. Furthermore, the exploration of 5G and satellite connectivity for disaster recovery and rapid deployment scenarios indicates a proactive approach to ensuring continuous service delivery, even in challenging conditions. This strategic focus on advanced wireless capabilities will likely set a precedent for other utility companies, driving innovation and investment in similar technologies across the U.S. energy landscape.
