About AARNet

Australia’s Academic and Research Network (AARNet), founded in 1989, has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s digital landscape as the pioneers of the country’s Internet. Our mission extends beyond mere connectivity; we are the architects, builders, and operators of a world-class network infrastructure that fuels critical research and learning. At AARNet, innovation thrives within a vibrant community
At AARNet, we’re a dynamic team of innovators, doers, and courageous thinkers. We don’t settle for the status quo; instead, we anticipate the future needs of our customers and build solutions today. If you share our imagination, foresight, and drive to shape the future, consider joining us on this exciting journey.

The Role

The network field technician role will work in the IDG (Infrastructure Development Group) focused on maintaining AARNet’s network and delivering new services to new and existing customers.
The role will involve fault diagnostics and restoration, service commissioning, spares management, planned works management, service design, network deployment and commissioning, and other engineering/design activities to build, support and maintain the AARNet Network.
This role will require an independent, self-sufficient worker that can think on their feet and solve problems as they arise. The applicant will receive ongoing training in the technologies relevant to the role and will at times need to travel for this training.
The work in this role is primarily field-based and will require extensive travel around Australia.
Applicants may be required to participate in an on-call roster to support AARNet’s network after hours and be willing to travel, at times, with limited notice.
This is a Fixed Term position.

Responsibilities

This role is primarily field-based and will require work in locations such as secure data centres, exchanges, and controlled environment vaults (CEVs). These locations may be in metro, regional or remote locations and this role will require some travel both regional and in other states according to project requirements.
Deployment

• Pre-staging and on-site install/commissioning work to expand and upgrade of the AARNet Network.

Service Testing & Commissioning

• Testing and commissioning of fibre optic and network equipment projects.
• Network configuration and network service provisioning.
• Preparation and execution of testing and commissioning plans and procedures.

Documentation

• Preparation of service and network hand-over artefacts at the completion of work.
• Complete internal service documentation and update relevant systems.

Expertise, experience & qualifications

• Field experience in the telecommunications and/or IT industry. (Required)
• Experience working as part of a network deployment team to project timelines.
• Experience in designing and deploying customer network solutions.
• Experience working with optical fibre networks, OTDRs, and power meters.
• Experience with DWDM Transmission Technologies will be highly regarded.
• Knowledge of Cisco and Juniper routers will be highly regarded.
• A diploma in Engineering/Telecommunications or a related field or relevant industry experience.
• Valid Australian Driver’s Licence.
• Australian citizen and resident.

Important skills

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Appropriate level of computer skills for an office and technical environments are essential.
• Solution and action oriented.
• Adaptable to different technical issues and environments.

Why Work at AARNet?

At AARNet, we’re passionate about advancing global education and critical research. Our Australia-wide network, with global reach, supports some of the most demanding network-based applications. If you’re looking for a purpose-driven workplace where you can make a difference, consider joining our team.
By working with us, you’ll directly contribute to critical research in fields like astronomy, physics, earth observation, environment, health, and medicine. Our mission matters, and we’re committed to providing equal opportunities for all.
Competitive Benefits and Conditions:

• Superannuation: Enjoy a 17% superannuation contribution.
• Parental/Adoption Leave: We offer 24 weeks of paid parental leave and superannuation top-up.
• Secondary Carer Leave: 16 weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers.
• Wellness Leave: 2 days per month paid Women’s wellness leave.
• Family & Domestic Violence Leave: 20 days of paid leave.
• Other Supportive Leaves: Paid leave for various life events such as weddings, deaths, trauma, and disasters.
• Purchased Leave: Options to purchase additional Annual Leave.
• Flexible Work Options: We support work-life balance.
• Equal Opportunity Focus: We value diversity and inclusion.
• Social Responsibility and Ethics: We lead by example.
• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Access to work with the latest industry technology.