Overview
Skills
Job Details
Network Security Engineer / Architect
Location: New York, NY
Duration: 6+ Months (Contract with Possible Extension)
Clearance: Not Required
Client Industry: Enterprise IT / Security
Start Date: ASAP
Mako's client is seeking an experienced Network Security Engineer or Architect to lead critical efforts in securing enterprise-level network environments. This role is ideal for professionals with hands-on expertise in Palo Alto Networks technologies and a strong foundation in secure network design across on-prem and cloud platforms. You'll work cross-functionally with infrastructure, cloud, and application teams to implement and maintain best-in-class network security controls and frameworks.
Key Responsibilities-
Design, implement, and manage secure network infrastructures (LAN/WAN, cloud, and hybrid environments).
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Configure and optimize Palo Alto Next-Gen Firewalls, Panorama, and security policies.
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Conduct firewall rule analysis, auditing, and tuning aligned with industry best practices.
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Lead architecture reviews, risk assessments, and security posture evaluations.
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Collaborate with cloud, infrastructure, and application teams to ensure secure integration.
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Monitor and respond to network-based security incidents and vulnerabilities.
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Recommend and drive firewall rule automation and change control processes.
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5+ years in Network Security Engineering and/or Architecture.
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Deep expertise with Palo Alto firewalls, Panorama, and GlobalProtect VPN.
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Strong knowledge of firewall rule design, routing, NAT, segmentation, and network protocols.
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Experience with IDS/IPS, VPN, threat prevention, and cloud-native firewalls (Azure/AWS).
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Hands-on troubleshooting and tuning of network security environments.
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Familiarity with compliance frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, etc.
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Palo Alto certifications (e.g., PCNSE)
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Experience with cloud security (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud Platform)
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Exposure to automation tools like Terraform or Ansible
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Understanding of SIEM platforms and log analysis
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Excellent communication and collaboration skills
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Self-driven and able to operate independently in distributed teams
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Proactive problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement