Palo Alto Firewall Administrator
Experience Level: Jr-Level (3 years) Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
We're looking for an experienced Network Security Administrator to manage and modernize the enterprise network infrastructure supporting a federal customer. In this role, you'll own the deployment, configuration, and ongoing support of a Cisco-based networking environment, multi-cloud connectivity, and perimeter security platforms — keeping the network fast, available, secure, and compliant with federal standards.
This is a hands-on engineering and administration role for someone who enjoys solving complex connectivity and security problems and wants room to grow.
What You'll Do
- Install, configure, and maintain network infrastructure including Cisco routers, switches, wireless systems, and firewalls
- Administer network monitoring and management platforms (PathSolutions, Cisco DNA Center) and maintain continuity during the transition off Cisco Prime
- Manage Palo Alto firewall platforms and services, including PAN-OS, VPN, Prisma Access, and GlobalProtect
- Support hybrid and multi-cloud connectivity, including Azure ExpressRoute (dual-region), AWS Direct Connect, and site-to-site redundancy
- Operate and maintain WAN infrastructure, including dual MPLS circuits per site and high-speed 10G point-to-point links between colocation facilities
- Monitor and optimize network performance across enterprise, MPLS, and cloud-connected environments to minimize downtime
- Diagnose and resolve routing, switching, connectivity, latency, and security incidents
- Implement and maintain secure network configurations, including patching, updates, and compliance hardening on-premises and in the cloud
- Support Trusted Internet Connections (TIC), including Lumen MTIPS and Cloudflare-based TIC 3.0 alignment
- Administer segmented network environments for operational systems (e.g., building systems and access control such as Lenel panels) and their supporting firewalls
- Support telecommunications and transition initiatives, including migration from legacy voice/video to Microsoft Teams
- Integrate network telemetry and security monitoring tools (e.g., Corelight, Garland) to enable SOC operations
- Ensure compliance with federal directives, including OMB M-21-31 event logging and network visibility requirements
- Perform structured cabling installation and management for copper and fiber across sites and colocation facilities
- Maintain network documentation, including configurations, SOPs, diagrams, and configuration management artifacts
- Respond to network alerts and service disruptions with timely resolution and escalation
- Research emerging networking technologies and assess their fit for the organization
- Handle installation, replacement, and lifecycle management of network hardware
What You'll Need
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field — or equivalent practical experience
- 3+ years of relevant experience with industry certifications, or 4+ years without certifications
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust security clearance
- Hands-on experience administering Cisco network infrastructure (routers, switches, wireless, firewalls)
Nice to Have
- Experience with Palo Alto platforms: PAN-OS, VPN, Prisma Access, and GlobalProtect
- Familiarity with federal networking, logging, and compliance requirements
- Experience with cloud connectivity (Azure ExpressRoute, AWS Direct Connect) and MPLS WAN environments
The Soft Skills That Matter
- Organized & detail-oriented — you plan, prioritize, and follow tasks through to the right standard
- Collaborative — comfortable working independently or on a team, and able to challenge ideas constructively
- Strong communicator — you explain technical topics clearly to teammates and clients, in writing and in person, and you listen well
- Results-oriented — you drive work forward regardless of personal interest in the task
Pay: $71,000.00 - $94,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
