Senior Firewall & Network Security Engineer

Edge Executive Search Group; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Edge Executive Search Group is seeking a seasoned network security specialist to manage enterprise-grade firewall security in Johannesburg. The role involves ensuring robust perimeter protection and incident response within a complex, high-availability environment. Candidates should have 5–10 years of experience in network security operations, strong expertise with Fortinet technologies, and relevant IT qualifications. A strong focus on security maturity and operational excellence is key. Competitive compensation and a collaborative work culture are offered.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in enterprise firewall and network security operations.
• Strong hands-on expertise with Fortinet FortiGate NGFW technologies.
• Deep understanding of IPS/IDS, VPNs, application control, and web filtering.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage NGFW services, including layer 7 firewalling and perimeter security.
• Configure and optimise IPS/IDS controls aligned to evolving threats and business needs.
• Manage VPN environments (remote access and site-to-site).
• Lead incident response for firewall-related alerts, including root cause analysis.

Skills

Network security expertise

Incident management

Policy governance

Threat analysis

VPN management

Education

Relevant IT qualification (Diploma or Degree preferred)

Tools

Fortinet FortiGate NGFW

IPS/IDS technologies

Job description

ake ownership of enterprise-grade firewall security in a high-impact environment. Shape and secure critical infrastructure while enabling seamless business connectivity.

This role is designed for a seasoned network security specialist who thrives in complex, high-availability environments. You will lead the end-to-end management of next-generation firewall services, ensuring robust perimeter protection, secure access, and continuous optimisation of security controls. From policy governance to incident response, your expertise will directly influence the organisation’s security posture and operational resilience.

Working across a mature security operations function, you will balance risk and availability, implementing best-practice controls while supporting business enablement. This is a hands‑on role requiring deep technical capability, strong judgement, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Our client is a well-established organisation operating within a highly regulated environment, with a strong focus on security maturity and operational excellence. They offer a collaborative, structured setting where technical expertise is valued and continuous improvement is embedded in the culture.

What You’ll Do

• Own and manage NGFW services, including layer 7 firewalling and perimeter security
• Configure and optimise IPS/IDS controls aligned to evolving threats and business needs
• Manage VPN environments (remote access and site-to-site)
• Implement and maintain application control and web filtering policies
• Oversee malware protection and threat prevention services on firewall platforms
• Drive firewall rule lifecycle management including modelling, testing, and governance
• Monitor and audit firewall configurations to ensure compliance and integrity
• Lead incident response for firewall-related alerts, including root cause analysis
• Maintain platform hygiene through patching, backups, and operational upkeep
• Support network segmentation and secure zoning initiatives
• Deliver security reporting and stakeholder communication on incidents and risks

What You Bring

• 5–10 years’ experience in enterprise firewall and network security operations
• Strong hands‑on expertise with Fortinet FortiGate NGFW technologies
• Deep understanding of IPS/IDS, VPNs, application control, and web filtering
• Proven experience in policy governance, optimisation, and compliance alignment
• Ability to manage incidents end-to-end with structured analysis and resolution
• Experience operating in controlled, enterprise change environments
• Relevant IT qualification (Diploma or Degree preferred)
• Fortinet certifications such as NSE 4, NSE 5, or NSE 7 strongly preferred

What Success Looks Like

• High-performing, resilient NGFW environment with effective threat prevention
• Well‑governed, optimised firewall policies aligned to best practices
• Reduced incident recurrence through strong root cause analysis
• Consistent delivery of patching, backups, and platform hygiene
• Accurate and timely security and compliance reporting
• Strong alignment between security controls and business enablement

Client Information
A leading organisation with a strong focus on secure digital operations, investing in advanced infrastructure and skilled professionals to support its evolving technology landscape.