Palo Alto Networks Security Specialist

Type of Position 1-year contract with the option for extension Hourly Pay Range $55 - $70 per hour Responsibilities Conduct network security appliance cutover operations on-site at the confidential client's location in Columbia, MD. Act as a central communication figure with customers, sales, engineering, and support teams to ensure efficient operations. Configure, implement, and manage advanced Security Operating Platforms for optimal performance and security. As a Palo Alto Networks Security Specialist, you will play a crucial role in transitioning policies and objects to Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), ensuring the maintenance of high-performance and security standards. Perform detailed testing and validation for smooth migration processes. Lead production cutovers and code upgrades with precision. Innovate by developing new applications and threat signatures, contributing to the evolving security landscape. Engage with the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) to resolve support cases and troubleshoot issues. Be prepared to travel as needed to meet customer demands. Partner with the client's security and network teams, strengthening trust during critical implementations. Ensure network segment controls are aligned with NIST and RMF frameworks. Execute proof of concept validations within controlled lab settings. Provide strategic technical support and insights to executive-level clients. Qualifications A bachelor's degree in computer science, MIS, Business, or a related discipline. A minimum of 5 years in network and security technology roles, encompassing routing, switching, and virtual machine management. At least 3 years dedicated to managing security solutions in expansive environments, crucial for the client's security and integrity. Profound technical proficiency with Palo Alto Networks® products is highly desirable. Skilled in troubleshooting LAN and WAN complications. Experience with leading cloud service providers (AWS, GCP, Azure) is a plus. Certifications Recognized industry certifications, including CISSP, CCNA/P, CNSE, JNCIE-SEC, PCNSA/E. DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (Sec+, CCNA Security, CASP+, CISSP). Other Requirements Active TS/SCI clearance with Full Scope Polygraph. #J-18808-Ljbffr Novacoast