Network Systems Manager

Network Systems Manager

Department: MERC
College/Division:
Mercer Engineering Research Center
Primary Job Posting

Location:

Warner Robins, GA

Mercer Engineering Research Center (MERC), a research institute of Mercer University, provides high‑quality engineering, scientific, and technical support services to government and private industry customers. The Network Systems Manager is responsible for server and network technical support functions and personnel under the supervision of the Director of Network Systems and Information Assurance.

• Manage and assist activities of network systems administrators.
• Resolve problems with server operating systems, application software, and hardware operations.
• Manage prescribed server disaster recovery schemes, system capacity planning, and user data management.
• Maintain and troubleshoot Windows Active Directory.
• Ensure execution and monitoring of the established security baseline (SCAP and STIGs) and develop and maintain appropriate artifacts.
• Develop documentation, processes, and procedures for NIST 800-53 and NIST 800-171/CMMC compliance as applicable to Network Systems and ensure compliance with organizational, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Manage servers and network systems assets inventory and establish a five‑year plan for capital expenditures.
• Lead the planning, design, and implementation of complex network architectures, driving modernization, scalability, and resilience across all environments.
• Establish vision, priorities, and performance standards for the network operations function, ensuring consistent delivery of high‑quality services.
• Develop and enforce operational processes, including change management, incident response, configuration management, and disaster recovery.
• Oversee workforce planning, hiring, performance evaluations, and professional development to build a high‑performing technical team.
• Ensure compliance with organizational, regulatory, and industry standards (NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-171) through rigorous documentation, audits, and continuous monitoring.
• Negotiate and oversee vendor relationships, evaluating products and services to support organizational technology strategy.
• Manage and mentor the network systems team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.

• US citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
• Associate’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field and 6 years of directly related experience, or high school diploma and 10 years of directly related experience.
• Experience with NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, and continuous monitoring.
• Demonstrated technical experience with Windows Server, Microsoft, CAD Application Suites, Exchange e‑mail, and server networking parameters.
• Ability to install, repair, and troubleshoot server hardware, software, peripheral devices, disk arrays, and tape libraries.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Experience performing systems disaster recovery.
• Service oriented and able to communicate and interface with users, peers, and vendors.
• Ability to conduct research into server issues and products as required.
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals, procedural documentation, and OEM guides.
• Extensive experience managing enterprise network and systems infrastructure, including LAN/WAN, wireless, firewalls, routing, switching, and data center technologies.
• Demonstrated leadership experience overseeing technical teams, including hiring, mentoring, performance management, and workload prioritization.
• Strong understanding of network security principles, segmentation, zero‑trust concepts, and compliance frameworks.
• Hands‑on experience with network monitoring, configuration management, and automation tools.
• Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and technology procurement.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for non‑technical stakeholders.

MERC is a non‑profit research institute of Mercer University, a private university founded in 1833. Located in Warner Robins, GA, MERC employs more than 200 engineers, scientists, professors, and support staff, who provide sustainable research solutions to government agencies, the Department of Defense, and commercial customers worldwide. MERC offers a generous benefits package including health and dental insurance, retirement, tuition reimbursement, vacation/sick leave accrual, and holiday pay.

Scheduled Weekly

Hours:

40 hrs.
Job Family:
Staff MERC Exempt

EEO/Veteran/Disability.

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