Firewall Specialist

Optimal Growth Technologies; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions provider in Durban is seeking an experienced Firewall Specialist with expertise in Palo Alto technologies to enhance their network defense and security posture. The ideal candidate will manage and optimize firewall configurations, ensuring compliance and proactive threat prevention. Candidates should possess Palo Alto certifications and have over 7 years of experience in network security monitoring. This role offers a dynamic environment focused on innovative security solutions.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience managing and optimizing Palo Alto firewalls.
• Strong understanding of firewall policy creation and configurations.
• 7+ years of experience with network security monitoring tools.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewalls across environments.
• Implement secure network changes ensuring business continuity.
• Conduct monitoring, log analysis, and threat detection.

Skills

Palo Alto Certification (PCNSE, PCNSA)

Network security monitoring

Problem-solving skills

Documentation skills

Analytical skills

Tools

Palo Alto Firewalls

SIEM tools

IDS/IPS systems

Job description

Overview

We're seeking an experienced Firewall Specialist (Palo Alto) to join our security-driven team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about network defense, firewall architecture, and proactive threat prevention. Youll be responsible for managing, configuring, and optimizing Palo Alto firewalls to ensure a secure, resilient, and high-performing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure, manage, and maintain Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) across multiple environments.
• Create, modify, and optimize firewall policies and security rules in alignment with best practices.
• Manage and resolve firewall-related incidents and service requests efficiently.
• Implement secure network changes while ensuring business continuity and compliance.
• Conduct proactive monitoring, log analysis, and threat detection to prevent security breaches.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Security, Network, and Infrastructure) to maintain a unified security posture.
• Maintain accurate documentation for configurations, processes, and change control.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Palo Alto Certification (essential) PCNSE, PCNSA, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience managing and optimizing Palo Alto firewalls.
• Strong understanding of firewall policy creation, NAT, security zones, and VPN configurations.
• 7+ years of experience with network security monitoring tools and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience with other enterprise firewall platforms (Checkpoint, Fortinet, Cisco).
• Familiarity with SIEM tools, IDS/IPS systems, or cloud-based firewall integrations.