Consultant
Independent/Freelance
Total years of experience :24 years, 10 Months
• Performing advanced network and server troubleshooting and optimization to small companies and internet cafés.
• Installing and configuring servers, networks and internet systems and keeping them up-to-date with latest updates.
• Providing network and systems security and assistance on developing and implementing network documentations.
• Directly reporting to the ITC Manager, responsible for managing the day to day operations of active and fiber networks operation and technical activities, PCN project leader, engineering design of telecommunications, fiber optic networks, wireless networks, firewalls and cyber security, including domain administration of Emerson DeltaV (ICS) and ABB Power Management System (PMS) systems, and monitoring of Data Center and NOC temperature and humidity.
• Supervision of direct reports, analyzed and evaluated the network usage and traffic changes, ensured network security using preventive and corrective actions in support of delivering efficient IT and Communications services.
• Aligned processes towards achieving committed SLAs and KPIs in coordination with Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC. Provided frequent reporting and capacity analysis, forecasts and recommendations to PCC and Chevron.
• Supervised, planned and executed ITC projects in coordination with cross-functional teams, routine and preventive maintenance jobs, primary contact for the resolution of all technical issues, and interfaces with vendors on major issues.
• Tightened ICS and 2 Process Control Networks Cisco ASA firewalls including physical security of all network devices.
• Led the ITC team in reviewing the IT, ICS, and NOC security for internal and external vulnerabilities. Searched and implemented Next Generation Firewalls (NGFW) and replaced all legacy firewalls. Implemented 802.1x authentication, VPN tunnel for remote offices, URL filtering, SSL VPN Dual authentication, antivirus/antimalware for endpoint security.
• Reduced vendor maintenance cost by personally restoring a crashed Power Management System (PMS) server and installation of multiple point-to-point wireless links which is previously through vendors - cost savings of US$15, 000.
• Upgraded the IOS of over 70 Cisco Catalyst switches such as 4500 series, 3750 series, 3560 series and 2960 series.
• Authored IT and ICS security procedures, network documentation, including those for network monitoring using Solarwinds and PRTG, and time tracking of all resources and services.
• Major contributor for the formulation and requirements gathering for Business continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans.
• Activated a redundant up-link using microwave and implemented failover to ensure a continuous Internet connectivity.
• Led a team of 14 that includes 2 NOC technicians, 4 field technicians, 8 OSP installers, and frequent reports to CEOs.
• Managed software and telecoms licenses and security of the entire network including system administration of multiple Linux and Windows 2008 servers supporting over 200 sites connected by either fiber optics or broadband.
• Orchestrated and enhanced the carrier relations, circuit ordering, contract management and support, network engineering and security tasks, acts proactively to ensure that all services are secured, reliable and uninterrupted.
• Improved Ifone-Neda’s revenue by 500% during my tenure by guiding the business development manager in accelerating the marketing strategies and ensured a secured, reliable and uninterrupted service.
• Reviewed and upgraded the NOC capacity starting from perimeter router, core and distribution switches, implemented QoS, BGP, URL filtering, UPS and Power Generator, high capacity servers and implemented virtual environment.
• Orchestrated the implementation of IPTV, transition from Broadband (Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint) to fiber optics of over 90% of customers (base-wide), and CDMA mobile implementation.
• Led the installation and maintenance of multiple VSATs (1.2, 3.8 and 4.5 meters), TV Receivers, and WiFi (hotspots).
• Provided engineering-level design and technical support to various enterprise customers including OSS/BSS.
• Managed and communicated with CJ6 and Afghan Telecoms on licensing and other Telecoms requirements.
• Implemented redundant up-links, VPN for inaccessible websites, and VLAN routing for multiple networks.
• Member of the transition team that played critical role on the initial installation and deployment of the company in Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan that supported the services provided by the company to US/NATO forces.
• Supervision of IT technicians and take over the responsibilities of CIS Manager during a month long off-tour of officer, every 3 months. Provided frequent reports to Project Manager on project site and head office in Canada.
• Formulated and implemented a winning strategy for the day-to-day operations of domain controlled NOC/Data Center, ensured optimum performance of network equipments by proactive actions and monitoring, including but is not limited to Cisco router and core switches, VoIP, VSAT, 2-way radio, and 24/7 availability of all IT services.
• Performed all aspects of network and systems administration including design, analysis, configuration, implementation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrade. Secured and documented the network, communications and messaging systems, and performed backup & disaster recovery.
• Led the development and implementation of all IT policies and procedures including those for architecture, security, disaster recovery, standards, purchasing, and service provisions.
• 100 percent attendance on regular meetings with Project Management team at Ottawa and Kandahar and coordinate all IT Infrastructure projects. Ensure that all required permits and licenses are acquired and up to date.
• Planned and implemented a secured IT infrastructure, including Active Directory, Group Policy, MS Exchange, Enterprise Antivirus, ISA, WSUS, DNS, DHCP, including file and printer sharing.
• Installed and supported VSAT, Wireless Bridge, Asterisk (VoIP), PA systems, and 2-Way radio communications.
• Planned and implemented network backup procedure using Dell Power Vault and Backup Exec.
Responsible for the entire IT infrastructure and 3 remote offices. Lead the IT infrastructure upgrade, data center management, network security, systems administration, general users support, regular security audits, and more.
• Lead the selection, implementation and later administered the ERP/CMMS systems, Payroll & Attendance system, PBX, Citrix Presentation server, and Access Control system (hand punch).
• Lead the IT Infrastructure upgrade including selection of hardware and software, Proxy (ISA), enterprise anti-virus, backup system, and MS Exchange messaging system.
• Created Standard Operating Procedures and KPIs for the IT Department.
• Lead the IT Infrastructure upgrade and involved in VOIP and PBX implementation.
• Lead the Maximo Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) implementation using Oracle as backend.
• Cross-trained on Honeywell DCS, Instrument, Analyzers, PLC, Gas Detectors, and involved in Maintenance shutdown activities while under the Control Systems department.
• ISO core team member - created Standard Operating Procedures and KPIs for the IT department.
· Graduated expeditiously a five (5) years course/degree in just 4-1/2 years.