Senior Network Security Engineer

American University; Dubai; On-site; AED 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The American University is looking for a Senior Network Security Engineer to enhance their network security and cybersecurity infrastructure. This role demands extensive experience in network security and managing security projects.

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational background, including at least a Bachelor's degree in a related field. The position involves collaboration with various stakeholders and an emphasis on innovations and improvements within the university’s security posture.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of experience in Network Security Engineering.
• Proven experience in higher education or complex infrastructures.
• Certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CCNP Security are required.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Conduct security risk assessments and vulnerability tests.
• Collaborate with stakeholders on security projects.

Skills

Network Security Architecture

Advanced Threat Management

Incident Response

Security Certifications

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

Master's Degree in Information Security

Tools

Cisco

Firewalls (Fortinet, Palo Alto)

Microsoft 365 Security Suite

SQL databases

Job description

Job Purpose

The American University in the Emirates is seeking a highly experienced Senior Network Security Engineer to lead the design, implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of the University's network and cybersecurity infrastructure. The role is responsible for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of enterprise systems and data through advanced security controls, proactive threat management, risk mitigation, and security governance. The Senior Network Security Engineer will serve as a technical leader, providing guidance on security architecture, best practices, and strategic initiatives across the University.

Qualifications & Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Master's degree in Information Security, Cybersecurity, or related discipline is preferred.
• CCNP Security is required; CCIE Security is an advantage.
• Professional security certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, CompTIA Security+, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Experience

• Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in Network Security Engineering and Cybersecurity.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in designing, implementing, and managing enterprise security solutions and secure network architectures.
• Proven experience in higher education, large enterprise environments, or complex multi‑site infrastructures is preferred.
• Experience leading security projects and mentoring junior engineers and administrators.

Skills / Training / Knowledge

• Expert knowledge of network security architecture, security frameworks, and best practices.
• Advanced hands‑on experience with enterprise firewalls (Fortinet, SonicWall, Cisco, Palo Alto, etc.), IDS/IPS solutions, SIEM platforms, endpoint protection, and VPN technologies.
• Strong expertise in Microsoft 365 Security Suite, Azure Security, Identity and Access Management (IAM), and Zero Trust security principles.
• In‑depth knowledge of database, operating system, cloud, and application security.
• Experience with vulnerability management, penetration testing, threat intelligence, and incident response.
• Thorough understanding of cybersecurity standards and frameworks such as ISO 27001, NIST, CIS Controls, and GDPR principles.
• Strong knowledge of risk assessment methodologies, security auditing, compliance requirements, and governance frameworks.
• Experience with Linux, Windows Server, VMware, Hyper‑V, and cloud‑based infrastructures.
• Expertise in disaster recovery planning, business continuity, digital forensics, and security incident investigations.
• Strong understanding of network protocols, routing, switching, TCP/IP, VLANs, WAN technologies, and wireless security.
• Experience with SAN storage solutions, backup technologies, and data protection strategies.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication, documentation, reporting, and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate technical security risks and recommendations to executive management and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Must be available for critical incident response and major service outages when required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, administration, and optimization of the University's network and cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Develop and maintain secure network architectures and security standards aligned with institutional objectives and industry best practices.
• Manage and support enterprise security solutions including firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, endpoint protection, web security gateways, NAC systems, and SIEM platforms.
• Conduct security risk assessments, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing reviews, and remediation planning.
• Monitor emerging cybersecurity threats and proactively recommend security improvements and mitigation strategies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain information security policies, procedures, standards, and governance frameworks.
• Lead incident response activities, forensic investigations, root‑cause analysis, and post‑incident reviews.
• Ensure compliance with applicable security regulations, standards, and audit requirements.
• Administer and optimize Cisco routers, switches, LAN/WAN infrastructure, wireless networks, and security appliances.
• Manage Microsoft 365 Security, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Windows Servers, Linux Servers, virtualization platforms, and cloud security controls.
• Oversee backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions, including Veeam Backup and Replication.
• Evaluate, recommend, and implement new security technologies and solutions to strengthen the University's security posture.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, vendors, and external auditors on security initiatives and projects.
• Prepare executive‑level reports, risk assessments, security metrics, and recommendations for senior management.
• Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior network and security personnel.
• Participate in strategic IT planning and contribute to long‑term cybersecurity roadmaps and digital transformation initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Information Technology.

This revised version aligns more closely with a Senior Network Security Engineer (Grade 9–11 / Senior Professional level) rather than a mid‑level Network Security Engineer position.