City of DeKalb, IL
Overview
The Network & Security Administrator is principally responsible for technical support to City employees and ensuring the City’s network infrastructure is secure, reliable, and has efficient connection across all municipal departments. This position is vital to safeguarding sensitive data, maintaining continuous access to public services and internal systems, and ensuring compliance with applicable government regulations.
POSITION CONTEXT The position of Network & Security Administrator is assigned to the Information Technology Department and reports to the IT Director. The Network & Security Administrator is a full-time exempt position and is required to work a minimum of forty hours per week. This position requires the ability to handle confidential information and materials in a professional manner while operating with a high level of discretion and technical independence. This position will be in contact with management, City staff, elected officials, and outside vendors.
Compensation The salary range for the position is $89,665 - $130,012. Salary and placement within the range will be commensurate with knowledge, skills and experience. The City of DeKalb provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision and prescription benefits, life insurance coverage, HSA & flexible spending accounts, deferred compensation and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Initial review of applications will begin Monday, January 26, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Provides technical support to City employees software and hardware applications. Troubleshoots technical issues, collaborates with staff and vendors to ensure timely resolution and maintain optimal system performance. Assists with end user training as needed.
Installs and configures new workstationsin accordance with City standards and user needs.
Deploys, monitors, and maintains the City’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and wireless infrastructure across municipal facilities, ensuring secure, stable and efficient network operations.
Installs, configures and maintains network hardware including routers, switches, firewalls, and peripheral devices. Supports software deployment, virtual and cloud technologies, and manages mobile device integration and security management.
Installs and troubleshoots physical and virtual servers, storage, and PC equipment.
Monitors, troubleshoots, and resolves network-related issues, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption. Makes recommendations and implements system improvements.
Coordinates the installation, repair, and system upgrades in collaboration with the IT Director, vendors, and end users to minimize system downtime.
Performs routine maintenance of IT systems and coordinates with external vendors to address specialized repairs and service requirements.
Manages the deployment of appropriate security patches, hotfixes, and software updates.
Ensures critical applications and technology equipment are available 24/7 to support police and fire operations.
Troubleshoots, repairs, and coordinates connectivity issues for emergency response systems and vehicles.
Performs routine network configuration adjustments and log analysis to ensure system security and regulatory compliance, including HIPPA, PCI, CJIS.
Assists in the maintenance and connectivity needs for the City’s business applications, including ERP, CAD, CRM, GIS and RMS systems.
Manages and monitors the City’s phone systems, including voice over IP (VoIP) and cellular systems such as phones and broadband devices. Diagnoses and resolves connectivity issues impacting emergency response systems, fleet communications, desktop handsets, and mobile devices.
Manages, monitors, and maintains the City’s virtual environments, including virtual servers, storage, host systems, high availability configurations, backup and recovery processes, capacity planning, and implementation of new technologies.
Supports Azure Active Directory, Exchange Online and Office 365, including user account management, access control, email configuration, and troubleshooting.
Administers and maintains core Windows Server infrastructure components including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy across City departments.
Maintains the system’s network addressing and routing to support secure and effective connectivity, including IP addressing, virtual networking, and identification of servers, domains, and workstations. Maintains documentation of all configurations.
Assists the IT Director with departmental planning related to networking and cybersecurity, including evaluating infrastructure and security requirements, recommending budget allocations and identifying technology investments that support City initiatives.
Supports the evaluation, procurement, and upgrade of information systems by assessing departmental hardware and software needs, defining technical specifications, obtaining vendor quotes, and recommending solutions based on product research and emerging technologies.
As assigned by the IT Director, provides technical assistance to the Human Resources Director during confidential investigations into potential violations of company policies and procedures, including secure data retrieval, access audits, and preservation of digital evidence.
Assists the Human Resources Department in managing user access, including onboarding and offboarding processes, while handing confidential employment information with discretion and adherence to data privacy standards.
Performs regular security and performance assessments to detect system vulnerabilities and inefficiencies. Recommends corrective measures to ensure continuity of operations and formulates contingency plans to minimize potential disruptions.
Monitors system and security logs, user activity, and network traffic to identify suspicious behaviors and potential threats. Performs timely remediation to mitigate risks and preserve system integrity. Conducts risk assessments, including vulnerability scans and penetration testing, to evaluate and strengthen security controls against cyber threats.
Administer firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and endpoint protection tools to safeguard network infrastructure.
Manages backup systems and disaster recovery protocols to ensure continuity of critical infrastructure. Responsible for configuring, executing, and validating back-ups to maintain data integrity.
Coordinates the development of documentation and implementation of training and procedures for new systems and programs.
Assists in the disaster recovery planning and testing to ensure business continuity.
Responds to emergency network issues on a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week basis, including weekends and holidays.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
Responds to special projects assigned by the IT Director and/or the City Manager. May serve as Acting IT Director in the IT Director’s absence as assigned.
Serves as staff resource at City Council meetings as requested by the City Manager.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems, advanced networking protocols and principles, storage area networks, unified communications, VOIP technologies, video surveillance systems, database structure, physical security systems and data center equipment.
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Server Technologies and network security practices. Experienced working with CISCO and Juniper systems, with advanced proficiency in both hardware and software support.
Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and techniques used in network development, maintenance, and administration.
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Networking, Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, and DHCP.
Knowledge of or the ability to obtain knowledge in applicable federal, state, and local regulations related to data privacy, security, and public records (e.g., CJIS, HIPAA, FOIA).
Knowledge of the methods and techniques used to resolve complex network system compatibility and integration issues.
Working knowledge of various virtualization platforms.
Knowledge of VOIP protocols, system maintenance and management, ethernet networking, cabling, routing, and switching as it relates to VOIP services.
Knowledge of system maintenance and management for VoIP services, including VoIP protocols, Ethernet networking, cabling, routing, and switching.
Thorough understanding of cybersecurity principles, threat mitigation strategies, and security frameworks, including NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls.
Skilled in configuring and managing firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and endpoint protection tools.
Ability to adapt to evolving technologies, emerging cyber threats, and changing regulatory requirements.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while exercising good judgment and initiative.
Ability to develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with all levels of staff, management, agencies, elected officials, and the public.
Demonstrated project management skills with the ability to manage multiple overlapping projects spanning several months.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exhibit diplomacy, tact, and discretion.
Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to effectively engage and convey technical information to diverse audiences.
Must have strong analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot.
Must have the ability to drive to different municipal locations to perform work and/or to transport equipment.
Ability and willingness to respond to critical situations twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week.
EDUCATION
High School Diploma Required. Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in computer science, information technology, network administration, cybersecurity, or closely related field preferred.
Certification such as CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) a plus.
Valid driver’s license.
EXPERIENCE
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in information technology including administration of local and wide area networks, advanced proficiency in routing and switching protocols, virtualization, systems integration, enterprise systems, server management, mobile device management, and PC support.
Prior experience in local government or in the public sector preferred.
Experience working with Cisco, Juniper, or comparable networking equipment required.
Experience with server virtualization technologies (e.g. VMware, vSphere, or Microsoft Hyper‑V).
Experience working with Mitel or other VoIP phone systems preferred.
Working knowledge of MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook) required.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Duties are performed primarily in an office setting. The person in this position will be required to regularly sit, stand, walk, reach with hands and arms and talk or hear on the phone and in person.
The employee will occasionally stand for prolonged periods, stoop, kneel, bend, climb, crawl or crouch to reach items.
This position will occasionally lift and/or move boxes of files, paper, workstations, servers, storage and flat screens up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include prolonged visual concentration, close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
This position will have extensive contact with others.
At times, workloads can be extensive with limited time for response/and or action. Position requires prolonged periods of concentration and the ability to cope with numerous interruptions and changing priorities.
This position will travel to various municipal buildings and may be exposed to weather elements.
EQUIPMENT USED
Servers, firewalls, routers, switches, hubs, radios, local and wide area network hardware, fiber, cable-testing equipment, network diagnostic software, workstations, laptops, printers, tablets, scanners, copiers and cellular phones.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position requires the ability to work outside of normal business hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and callbacks as required.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process includes submission of an application, interview, and a background check. The physical examination and drug screen are completed upon conditional offer.
Please click here to view the City's policy regarding the hiring of immediate family members of a current City employee, elected official, or appointed official prior to completing an application for employment.
The City of DeKalb is an Equal Opportunity Employer
#J-18808-Ljbffr
POSITION CONTEXT The position of Network & Security Administrator is assigned to the Information Technology Department and reports to the IT Director. The Network & Security Administrator is a full-time exempt position and is required to work a minimum of forty hours per week. This position requires the ability to handle confidential information and materials in a professional manner while operating with a high level of discretion and technical independence. This position will be in contact with management, City staff, elected officials, and outside vendors.
Compensation The salary range for the position is $89,665 - $130,012. Salary and placement within the range will be commensurate with knowledge, skills and experience. The City of DeKalb provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision and prescription benefits, life insurance coverage, HSA & flexible spending accounts, deferred compensation and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Initial review of applications will begin Monday, January 26, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Provides technical support to City employees software and hardware applications. Troubleshoots technical issues, collaborates with staff and vendors to ensure timely resolution and maintain optimal system performance. Assists with end user training as needed.
Installs and configures new workstationsin accordance with City standards and user needs.
Deploys, monitors, and maintains the City’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and wireless infrastructure across municipal facilities, ensuring secure, stable and efficient network operations.
Installs, configures and maintains network hardware including routers, switches, firewalls, and peripheral devices. Supports software deployment, virtual and cloud technologies, and manages mobile device integration and security management.
Installs and troubleshoots physical and virtual servers, storage, and PC equipment.
Monitors, troubleshoots, and resolves network-related issues, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption. Makes recommendations and implements system improvements.
Coordinates the installation, repair, and system upgrades in collaboration with the IT Director, vendors, and end users to minimize system downtime.
Performs routine maintenance of IT systems and coordinates with external vendors to address specialized repairs and service requirements.
Manages the deployment of appropriate security patches, hotfixes, and software updates.
Ensures critical applications and technology equipment are available 24/7 to support police and fire operations.
Troubleshoots, repairs, and coordinates connectivity issues for emergency response systems and vehicles.
Performs routine network configuration adjustments and log analysis to ensure system security and regulatory compliance, including HIPPA, PCI, CJIS.
Assists in the maintenance and connectivity needs for the City’s business applications, including ERP, CAD, CRM, GIS and RMS systems.
Manages and monitors the City’s phone systems, including voice over IP (VoIP) and cellular systems such as phones and broadband devices. Diagnoses and resolves connectivity issues impacting emergency response systems, fleet communications, desktop handsets, and mobile devices.
Manages, monitors, and maintains the City’s virtual environments, including virtual servers, storage, host systems, high availability configurations, backup and recovery processes, capacity planning, and implementation of new technologies.
Supports Azure Active Directory, Exchange Online and Office 365, including user account management, access control, email configuration, and troubleshooting.
Administers and maintains core Windows Server infrastructure components including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy across City departments.
Maintains the system’s network addressing and routing to support secure and effective connectivity, including IP addressing, virtual networking, and identification of servers, domains, and workstations. Maintains documentation of all configurations.
Assists the IT Director with departmental planning related to networking and cybersecurity, including evaluating infrastructure and security requirements, recommending budget allocations and identifying technology investments that support City initiatives.
Supports the evaluation, procurement, and upgrade of information systems by assessing departmental hardware and software needs, defining technical specifications, obtaining vendor quotes, and recommending solutions based on product research and emerging technologies.
As assigned by the IT Director, provides technical assistance to the Human Resources Director during confidential investigations into potential violations of company policies and procedures, including secure data retrieval, access audits, and preservation of digital evidence.
Assists the Human Resources Department in managing user access, including onboarding and offboarding processes, while handing confidential employment information with discretion and adherence to data privacy standards.
Performs regular security and performance assessments to detect system vulnerabilities and inefficiencies. Recommends corrective measures to ensure continuity of operations and formulates contingency plans to minimize potential disruptions.
Monitors system and security logs, user activity, and network traffic to identify suspicious behaviors and potential threats. Performs timely remediation to mitigate risks and preserve system integrity. Conducts risk assessments, including vulnerability scans and penetration testing, to evaluate and strengthen security controls against cyber threats.
Administer firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and endpoint protection tools to safeguard network infrastructure.
Manages backup systems and disaster recovery protocols to ensure continuity of critical infrastructure. Responsible for configuring, executing, and validating back-ups to maintain data integrity.
Coordinates the development of documentation and implementation of training and procedures for new systems and programs.
Assists in the disaster recovery planning and testing to ensure business continuity.
Responds to emergency network issues on a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week basis, including weekends and holidays.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
Responds to special projects assigned by the IT Director and/or the City Manager. May serve as Acting IT Director in the IT Director’s absence as assigned.
Serves as staff resource at City Council meetings as requested by the City Manager.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems, advanced networking protocols and principles, storage area networks, unified communications, VOIP technologies, video surveillance systems, database structure, physical security systems and data center equipment.
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Server Technologies and network security practices. Experienced working with CISCO and Juniper systems, with advanced proficiency in both hardware and software support.
Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and techniques used in network development, maintenance, and administration.
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Networking, Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, and DHCP.
Knowledge of or the ability to obtain knowledge in applicable federal, state, and local regulations related to data privacy, security, and public records (e.g., CJIS, HIPAA, FOIA).
Knowledge of the methods and techniques used to resolve complex network system compatibility and integration issues.
Working knowledge of various virtualization platforms.
Knowledge of VOIP protocols, system maintenance and management, ethernet networking, cabling, routing, and switching as it relates to VOIP services.
Knowledge of system maintenance and management for VoIP services, including VoIP protocols, Ethernet networking, cabling, routing, and switching.
Thorough understanding of cybersecurity principles, threat mitigation strategies, and security frameworks, including NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls.
Skilled in configuring and managing firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and endpoint protection tools.
Ability to adapt to evolving technologies, emerging cyber threats, and changing regulatory requirements.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while exercising good judgment and initiative.
Ability to develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with all levels of staff, management, agencies, elected officials, and the public.
Demonstrated project management skills with the ability to manage multiple overlapping projects spanning several months.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exhibit diplomacy, tact, and discretion.
Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to effectively engage and convey technical information to diverse audiences.
Must have strong analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot.
Must have the ability to drive to different municipal locations to perform work and/or to transport equipment.
Ability and willingness to respond to critical situations twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week.
EDUCATION
High School Diploma Required. Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in computer science, information technology, network administration, cybersecurity, or closely related field preferred.
Certification such as CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) a plus.
Valid driver’s license.
EXPERIENCE
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in information technology including administration of local and wide area networks, advanced proficiency in routing and switching protocols, virtualization, systems integration, enterprise systems, server management, mobile device management, and PC support.
Prior experience in local government or in the public sector preferred.
Experience working with Cisco, Juniper, or comparable networking equipment required.
Experience with server virtualization technologies (e.g. VMware, vSphere, or Microsoft Hyper‑V).
Experience working with Mitel or other VoIP phone systems preferred.
Working knowledge of MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook) required.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Duties are performed primarily in an office setting. The person in this position will be required to regularly sit, stand, walk, reach with hands and arms and talk or hear on the phone and in person.
The employee will occasionally stand for prolonged periods, stoop, kneel, bend, climb, crawl or crouch to reach items.
This position will occasionally lift and/or move boxes of files, paper, workstations, servers, storage and flat screens up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include prolonged visual concentration, close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
This position will have extensive contact with others.
At times, workloads can be extensive with limited time for response/and or action. Position requires prolonged periods of concentration and the ability to cope with numerous interruptions and changing priorities.
This position will travel to various municipal buildings and may be exposed to weather elements.
EQUIPMENT USED
Servers, firewalls, routers, switches, hubs, radios, local and wide area network hardware, fiber, cable-testing equipment, network diagnostic software, workstations, laptops, printers, tablets, scanners, copiers and cellular phones.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position requires the ability to work outside of normal business hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and callbacks as required.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process includes submission of an application, interview, and a background check. The physical examination and drug screen are completed upon conditional offer.
Please click here to view the City's policy regarding the hiring of immediate family members of a current City employee, elected official, or appointed official prior to completing an application for employment.
The City of DeKalb is an Equal Opportunity Employer
#J-18808-Ljbffr