Network Security Architect

Role: Network Security Architect (Design and Deployment)
Location:  Remote Work from Home
Duration: 6+ Month Contract (possible chance to convert to FTE)

What We're Looking For: You are a self-sufficient, detail-oriented architect who can own a project from whiteboard to production. You communicate clearly, produce high-quality documentation, and thrive in environments where precision and accountability matter.

Requirements: 

• A minimum of 10 years' progressive experience in a Network Security related field
• Cisco certifications such as CCNP Security, CCIE Security, or equivalent
• Palo Alto certifications such as PCNSA or PCNSE
• Experience with SD-WAN, SASE, or cloud security platforms (AWS, Azure)
• Familiarity with ITIL change management processes
• Scripting or automation experience (Python, Ansible) for network security tasks

What will you be doing?

About the Role We are seeking an experienced Senior Network Security Architect to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, architecture, and implementation of enterprise network security solutions. You will work closely with engineering and operations teams to deliver secure, scalable, and resilient network infrastructures.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect enterprise network security solutions including firewalls, access control, and network segmentation
• Develop Low-Level Designs (LLDs) and High-Level Designs (HLDs) for network security infrastructure
• Build and deliver detailed Methods of Procedure (MOPs) for implementation and change activities
• Deploy, configure, and manage Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) and Cisco ASA firewalls
• Design and implement network access control solutions using Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), including 802.1X, MAB, and policy enforcement
• Deploy and manage Palo Alto Networks OEM hardware including Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) and associated security platforms
• Lead end-to-end project delivery from requirements gathering through build and go-live
• Conduct security assessments and provide recommendations to improve the overall security posture
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical security designs
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers
• Maintain documentation standards and ensure designs align with industry best practices and compliance requirements

Required Skills & Experience

• 5–10 years of experience in network security architecture and engineering
• Hands-on expertise with Cisco Firepower (FTD/FMC) — policy management, IPS, and threat inspection
• Strong proficiency with Cisco ASA — configuration, NAT, VPN (site-to-site and remote access), and troubleshooting
• Deep experience with Cisco ISE — endpoint profiling, posture assessment, RADIUS/TACACS+, and guest access
• Proven experience producing LLDs and design documentation to a professional standard
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, accurate MOPs for complex network changes
• Strong understanding of network protocols — BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLAN, spanning tree, and QoS
• Experience with network segmentation, micro-segmentation, and zero-trust principles

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Hands-on experience with Palo Alto Networks OEM hardware — NGFW deployment, PAN-OS configuration, security policy management, and threat prevention
• Familiarity with Panorama for Palo Alto firewall management
• Experience with Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN and URL filtering
• Working knowledge of Palo Alto Cortex or WildFire threat intelligence platforms