US Department of Defense Education Activity
About the Role The Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA) Network Operations Center in Vicenza, Italy, seeks an experienced IT Network Specialist (GS-12) to join our Information Technology Division. This critical position supports the secure and reliable operation of enterprise-level network infrastructure serving educational facilities across geographically dispersed locations. Federal employees in Vicenza currently receive a 20% Post Allowance (COLA) in addition to base salary, along with overseas benefits including potential Living Quarters Allowance and home leave eligibility. This permanent, full-time position offers an initial 36-month overseas tour with opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic international environment. Key Responsibilities Network Monitoring & Operations Oversee daily operation and performance monitoring of complex network systems including voice, wireless, firewalls, IP-based video distribution, streaming services, and data communications Ensure comprehensive monitoring and notification services are deployed across all mission-essential network systems as defined by management Monitor network performance, availability, and security using enterprise management tools to proactively identify outages, performance degradation, vulnerabilities, and configuration issues Coordinate with internal teams, service providers, and vendors to resolve network incidents and maintain optimal system performance Security & Compliance Management Ensure all IT network systems meet stringent security requirements related to physical, personnel, and information security protocols Provide expert recommendations for security incident response, including user contact procedures, management notifications, investigation coordination, and comprehensive documentation of findings Maintain compliance with established security policies, regulations, and DoWEA operational standards Support cybersecurity initiatives and implement security best practices across network infrastructure System Administration & Technical Support Perform advanced Tier II network troubleshooting and incident response in a Network Operations Center environment Plan, schedule, and execute installation of new or modified hardware, network operating systems, and applications software Analyze network administration Standard Operating Procedures on an ongoing basis to ensure compliance with established policies and regulations Evaluate and validate proposed test plans to ensure thorough assessment of unique or high-priority network elements and operations Documentation & Process Improvement Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive technical documentation including SOPs, network diagrams, and configuration standards Document investigation findings, system changes, and operational procedures to support IT service management requirements Analyze operating system relationships and interdependencies to resolve complex network administration issues Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for network operations and service delivery Requirements Essential Qualifications U.S. Citizenship required with ability to obtain and maintain Secret Security Clearance One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 level including: Administering enterprise-level network infrastructure (LAN/WAN, WLAN, SD-WAN, firewalls, remote access solutions) Managing network performance using enterprise tools (SolarWinds, Cisco Catalyst Center, or equivalent) Performing Tier II troubleshooting and incident response in NOC or similar enterprise environment Implementing network configuration changes and maintaining technical documentation for cybersecurity compliance Core IT Competencies Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to complete thorough, accurate work independently under challenging conditions Customer Service: Experience resolving complex problems, maintaining strong customer relationships, and conducting service quality evaluations Oral Communication: Proven ability to convey complex technical information effectively to diverse audiences and stakeholders Problem Solving: Track record of identifying issues, evaluating alternatives, and developing strategic solutions while engaging multiple stakeholders Security & Certification Requirements Must obtain Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II certification within 6 months of appointment Complete Foundational Qualification requirements within 9 months and Residential qualification requirements within 12 months Pass Tier 3 (T3) background investigation and maintain security standards throughout employment Overseas Assignment Requirements Obtain Official Passport and Italian visa prior to departure Comply with Exceptional Family Member Program requirements per DoD Instruction 1315.19 Meet 5-year overseas rotation requirements and initial 36-month tour commitment Demonstrate flexibility for occasional travel (up to 10% of time) Additional Considerations Location Benefits Based in historic Vicenza, Italy with access to European cultural and travel opportunities Potential eligibility for government quarters or Living Quarters Allow