Senior Network Security Engineer

Datacentrix; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in the automotive industry is seeking a Senior Network Security Engineer to safeguard and optimize its enterprise IT infrastructure. This role involves leading network security operations, mentoring technical teams, and managing complex security challenges with a focus on project implementation and incident response. The ideal candidate has at least 4 years of experience in network management, including expertise with PaloAlto firewalls and multi-vendor environments. Competitive salary and a dynamic work environment are offered.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of network and firewall management experience is a must.
• Experience in enterprise network design and implementation.
• Familiarity with security incident response and forensics.

Responsibilities

• Lead network infrastructure projects ensuring timely delivery.
• Generate network performance reports and maintain documentation.
• Respond to priority incidents and conduct root cause analysis.
• Maintain vendor relationships and negotiate specifications.
• Implement security protocols and provide technical support.
• Perform daily network health checks and monitor performance.

Skills

LAN understanding

WiFi and switching management

PaloAlto firewall configuration

multi-vendor network troubleshooting

core networking protocols

adaptability

analytical and problem-solving capabilities

excellent communication

strong documentation skills

Education

CCNA certification

CCNP Enterprise

PaloAlto certifications (PCNSE, PCNSA, PCCSA)

CompTIA Security+ or equivalent

Cloud certifications (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)

Tools

PaloAlto firewalls

Cisco Meraki switching

VeloCloud SD-WAN

SIEM tools

Job description

On behalf of our client—a leading organization in the automotive industry—we are seeking a Senior Network Security Engineer to play a pivotal role in safeguarding and optimizing their enterprise IT infrastructure.

In this critical position, you'll take the lead on network security operations, provide mentorship to technical teams, and navigate complex security challenges across a dynamic and diverse technology environment. The role involves hands-on responsibility across key areas including project implementation, incident response, vendor management, and advanced technical support.

You’ll work with a broad and modern stack that includes PaloAlto firewalls, Mellanox core switches, Arista routers, Saisei internet shaping, Cisco Meraki switching and WiFi, and VeloCloud SD-WAN.

As a senior contributor, you’ll be the go-to expert for escalated issues, lead critical security initiatives, and ensure the performance, reliability, and protection of the company’s enterprise-grade infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Projects & Implementation (35%) Lead network infrastructure projects, coordinate timelines, and evaluate new technologies
• Reporting & Documentation (10%) Generate network performance reports, maintain technical documentation, and create standard operating procedures
• Critical Issue Management (15%) Respond to priority incidents, manage escalations, conduct root cause analysis, and participate in incident response
• Stakeholder Management (10%) Maintain vendor relationships, collaborate with business units, and negotiate technical specification
• Technical Support & Knowledge Transfer (20%) Implement and configure security protocols, provide technical support, troubleshoot issues, mentor team members, and stay current with updates
• Maintenance (10%) Perform daily network health checks, execute routine maintenance, monitor performance, and maintain documentation

Required Qualifications

• Certifications & Experience : CCNA certification, entry-level PaloAlto qualification, and 4+ years of network and firewall management
• Technical Skills : LAN understanding, WiFi and switching management, PaloAlto firewall configuration, multi-vendor network troubleshooting, and core networking protocols.
• Preferred Skills : VeloCloud SD-WAN management, Cisco certification, server technology expertise, cloud platforms knowledge, and network monitoring tools.
• Professional Skills : Adaptability, analytical and problem-solving capabilities, excellent communication, and strong documentation skills.

Advanced Certifications

• CCNP Enterprise
• PaloAlto PCNSE, PCNSA, PCCSA certification
• CompTIA Security+ or equivalent security certifications
• Cloud certifications (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud)

Technical Experience

• Enterprise network design and implementation
• Multi-vendor environment management
• Security incident response and forensics
• Network automation and scripting (Python, PowerShell)
• SIEM and security monitoring tools

Industry Experience

• Previous experience in vendor management or procurement
• Background in cybersecurity or information security
• Experience with enterprise monitoring and management tools
• Project management experience with network implementations

Working Conditions

• Position requires ability to work independently and make autonomous decisions
• Occasional after-hours support during incidents or maintenance windows required
• Regular interaction with external vendors and internal stakeholders
• Some travel may be required for vendor meetings, training, or site visits
• On-call rotation participation for critical infrastructure support