Senior Network Engineer – SSSNE

Armstrong Appointments; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Durban is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to enhance their network operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with Fortinet products, strong problem-solving skills, and a proven track record in network design and security management. This role involves leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring compliance with cybersecurity standards.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in network engineering, with at least 3 years in a senior role.
• Proven expertise in Fortinet products and network security best practices.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and deploy enterprise-level network systems.
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain network performance.
• Lead network-related projects and coordinate with teams.

Skills

Routing and Switching Protocols

Network Security Technologies

Cloud Networking

Analytical Skills

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science

Diploma in Network Engineering

Tools

Fortinet FortiGate

Cisco Hardware

SolarWinds

Wireshark

Job description

Main job function
This role requires deep technical expertise in networking technologies, including hands-on experience with Fortinet solutions, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in supporting the organization’s network operations and driving innovation in network architecture, collaborating closely with the Information Security team, and driving innovation in network architecture.

The Senior Network Engineer role sits within the Infrastructure Team, reporting to the Group IT Infrastructure Manager. The candidate must have extensive experience in designing, optimizing, and securing network infrastructures, with a particular emphasis on Fortinet products. Knowledge of Fortinet certifications and security protocols is highly preferred. The Senior Network Engineer will play a crucial role in maintaining the reliability, security, and performance of our network systems while ensuring compliance with global cybersecurity standards and best practices.

Key Requirements/ Responsibilities
• Network Design & Implementation: Design, configure, and deploy enterprise-level network systems, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, and VPN solutions, with a focus on Fortinet firewalls and security appliances.
• Network Maintenance: Monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain network performance, ensuring high availability, reliability, and security of all network components.
• Fortinet Expertise: Deploy, configure, and manage Fortinet firewalls, FortiGate appliances, and other Fortinet security products. Troubleshoot and resolve Fortinet-related issues to ensure the security and reliability of network infrastructure. Leverage Fortinet security features such as Forti Manager, Forti Analyzer, and Forti SIEM to enhance security posture.
• Security Management: Implement and manage network security measures using Fortinet products (e.g., FortiGate firewalls, Forti Analyzer, Forti Manager) alongside other tools like IDS/IPS and encryption protocols.
• Performance Optimization: Conduct regular network performance assessments, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to optimize throughput and reduce latency.
• Incident Response: Act as an escalation point for complex network issues, ensuring timely resolution of outages or performance degradation.
• Documentation: Create and maintain detailed network diagrams, configurations, and operational procedures for internal reference and compliance.
• Project Leadership: Lead network-related projects, including upgrades, migrations, and new deployments, while coordinating with cross-functional teams and vendors.

Required Skills/Experience
• Expertise in routing and switching protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP).
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/S, etc.) and routing/switching concepts.
• Familiarity with network security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), SIEM, and vulnerability management.
• Proficiency with network hardware from vendors such as Cisco, Palo Alto, and Fortinet.
• Strong knowledge of network security technologies, with specific experience in Fortinet FortiGate firewalls, VPNs, NAC, and Zero Trust architecture.
• Experience with cloud networking (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid network environments.
• Familiarity with network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Wireshark, PRTG, Nagios, Forti Analyzer).

Soft Skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to network and security management.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven leadership and project management experience.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in network engineering, with at least 3 years in a senior or lead role.
• Proven expertise in Fortinet products (e.g., FortiGate firewalls, Forti Manager, Forti Analyzer).
• Strong understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and security best practices.
• Hands-on experience in designing, deploying, and maintaining large-scale networks.
• Solid troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex network environments.
• Experience with cloud network configurations and hybrid environments.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience
• Fortinet certifications (NSE 4, NSE 5, or higher).
• Cisco certifications (Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) or equivalent.
• 7+ years of experience in network engineering with substantial exposure to enterprise-scale network infrastructures.
• Experience with advanced network security frameworks, including Zero Trust and network segmentation.
• Familiarity with SD-WAN technology and other advanced network architectures.

A Consultant will be in touch if you are shortlisted for the position. Please consider your application unsuccessful should you not have been contacted within 2 weeks. We will keep your CV on our database and contact you should you match the criteria of any other vacancies.