Palo Alto Network Engineer Job Description

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Palo Alto Network Engineer to design, deploy, and manage Palo Alto Networks security solutions. The Palo Alto Network Engineer will focus on implementing and maintaining Palo Alto firewalls, Panorama management systems, and related security technologies to ensure a secure and efficient network environment. This role requires in-depth knowledge of Palo Alto products, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with IT teams to protect organizational assets.

Key Responsibilities

• Solution Design: Architect and implement Palo Alto Networks security solutions, including next-generation firewalls (NGFW), Panorama, and Prisma Access, to meet organizational security and performance needs.

• Deployment and Configuration: Install, configure, and optimize Palo Alto firewalls (e.g., PA-Series, VM-Series) and related products, ensuring seamless integration with existing network infrastructure.

• Security Management: Manage firewall policies, security profiles (e.g., URL filtering, threat prevention, WildFire), and VPN configurations to protect against cyber threats.

• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve complex issues related to Palo Alto systems, including connectivity, policy enforcement, and performance problems, minimizing downtime.

• Monitoring and Analysis: Utilize Panorama and other tools to monitor network traffic, generate security reports, and identify vulnerabilities or performance issues.

• Maintenance: Perform regular updates, patches, and firmware upgrades on Palo Alto devices to maintain security and functionality.

• Cloud Integration: Deploy and manage Palo Alto solutions in cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) using VM-Series firewalls and Prisma Access for secure access service edge (SASE).

• Collaboration: Work with network architects, security analysts, and other IT teams to align Palo Alto solutions with organizational goals and infrastructure requirements.

• Documentation: Maintain detailed documentation of configurations, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance with organizational and industry standards.

• Training: Provide guidance and training to IT staff and end-users on Palo Alto systems and best practices for network security.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in network security, with at least 2 years focused on Palo Alto Networks product deployment and management.

• Technical Skills:

  • Expertise in Palo Alto Networks products (e.g., PA-Series, Panorama, Prisma Access, WildFire).

  • Strong understanding of networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, IPsec, SSL/TLS).

  • Experience with firewall policy management, threat prevention, and secure access solutions.

  • Familiarity with cloud security integration (e.g., AWS, Azure) and virtualized firewall deployments.

  • Knowledge of scripting (e.g., Python, PowerShell) for automation is a plus.

• Certifications: Required: Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE). Preferred: PCNSA, CompTIA Security+, or Cisco CCNA.

• Soft Skills:

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

  • Excellent communication skills for interacting with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

  • Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently in a dynamic environment.