Network Engineer - Cisco ISE and Fortinet, Senior

A well-established Houston-area organization is seeking a Senior Network Engineer with deep expertise in Cisco and Fortinet technologies to own the design, implementation, and ongoing optimization of a complex enterprise network infrastructure. In this hands-on role, you will work closely with a collaborative IT team to strengthen network security posture, resolve challenging infrastructure issues, and drive measurable improvements in performance and reliability. You will serve as the technical authority on identity-based access control and perimeter security, directly influencing the stability and scalability of mission-critical systems. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity offering a clear path to full-time employment for the right candidate who demonstrates strong technical leadership and strategic thinking.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, configure, and maintain enterprise network infrastructure with a primary focus on Cisco technologies across routing, switching, and security domains.

• Implement and administer Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) to enforce endpoint access policies, manage network access control, and support zero-trust security initiatives.

• Deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Fortinet security solutions including next-generation firewalls and associated security fabric components to protect the network perimeter.

• Configure and optimize dynamic routing protocols — including BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP — to ensure high availability, optimal traffic flow, and network resilience.

• Collaborate with IT support staff to diagnose and resolve complex network issues, providing escalation support and root-cause analysis for critical incidents.

• Evaluate and recommend enhancements to the network architecture, contributing to long-term infrastructure strategy and security framework improvements.

Requirements:

• Proven track record as a Senior Network Engineer working in a Cisco-centric enterprise environment, with sustained hands-on experience across multiple roles.

• Deep expertise with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), including policy configuration, profiling, posture assessment, and endpoint access management.

• Hands-on experience deploying and managing Fortinet network security solutions, such as FortiGate firewalls and related security fabric components.

• Strong proficiency in enterprise routing protocols — BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP — with the ability to design and troubleshoot complex multi-protocol environments.

• Experience with Cisco Meraki SD-WAN design and deployment is a strong advantage, as is familiarity with Cisco UCS network infrastructure installation and configuration.

• Exposure to F5 load balancer technology is a plus, rounding out a well-rounded network and security skill set.

Role Details:

• Employment Type: Contract to Hire

• Work Schedule: Full-time, standard business hours

• Location: Houston, Texas 77064

If you are a seasoned network engineer with a strong Cisco and Fortinet background who thrives in a collaborative, hands-on environment and is ready to make an immediate impact, we encourage you to apply today.