Network & Security Engineer

Syntys is a leading data center provider specializing in the design, construction, and management of data centers, catering to hyperscalers, AI infrastructure, and colocation wholesale providers across the MENA region. With a presence in more countries than any other provider in the region, Syntys is committed to delivering scalable, secure, and efficient digital infrastructure solutions. Our offerings include colocation and built-to-suit facilities, meticulously tailored to meet the growing demands of the industry. In this capacity, Syntys plays a pivotal role in supporting the region's economic growth by fostering innovation and attracting investment in the digital economy.

The Network & Security Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, operation, and optimisation of enterprise network and security infrastructure across Syntys data centre facilities. The role requires deep technical expertise in Cisco networking technologies, security architecture, and ITIL-aligned service management. The engineer acts as the highest level of technical escalation for network and security incidents, drives change management discipline, and ensures infrastructure aligns with hyperscaler audit requirements and industry best practices.

ROLE ACCOUNTABILITIES

Network Infrastructure Management

• Design, implement, and maintain enterprise network architecture including core switching, routing, and data center fabric
• Manage Cisco Nexus, Catalyst, and ASR platforms ensuring optimal performance and availability
• Implement and manage network segmentation, VLANs, VRFs, and VXLAN/EVPN fabrics
• Configure and optimize routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP) for internal and external connectivity
• Manage out-of-band management networks and console server infrastructure
• Ensure network infrastructure supports 99.999% availability SLA requirements

Security Architecture & Operations

• Design and implement network security architecture including firewalls, IDS/IPS, and micro-segmentation
• Manage Cisco ASA, Firepower, and ISE platforms for access control and threat prevention
• Implement and maintain Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) principles
• Configure and manage VPN solutions (site-to-site, remote access) for secure connectivity
• Conduct security assessments, vulnerability scanning, and penetration testing coordination
• Monitor security events and respond to threats in coordination with SOC operations
• Ensure compliance with ISO 27001, SOC 2, and customer security requirements

Incident Management (ITIL)

• Act as L3 escalation point for all network and security incidents (P1/P2/P3)
• Lead incident resolution ensuring SLA compliance: P1 4hrs, P2 8hrs, P3 24hrs
• Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and deliver RCA reports within defined timelines
• Drive corrective and preventive actions to closure with documented evidence
• Maintain Known Error Database (KEDB) with workarounds and permanent fixes
• Coordinate with vendors (Cisco TAC, ISP, security vendors) for escalation and resolution

Change Management (ITIL)

• Prepare and submit RFCs (Request for Change) with complete documentation
• Develop detailed MOPs (Method of Procedures) for network and security changes
• Participate in CAB (Change Advisory Board) meetings presenting technical changes
• Execute approved changes with pre/post validation and rollback procedures
• Maintain change calendar ensuring no conflicts with maintenance windows or customer activities
• Target 85% first-pass CAB approval rate through quality documentation
• Ensure zero change-induced incidents through rigorous testing and validation

Architecture & Design

• Develop and maintain network architecture documentation (HLD, LLD, topology diagrams)
• Design network solutions for customer onboarding and capacity expansion
• Evaluate new technologies and make recommendations for infrastructure improvement
• Participate in design reviews ensuring alignment with standards and best practices
• Support customer technical requirements and pre-sales engineering activities

Process Adherence & Documentation

• Ensure strict adherence to ITIL processes (Incident, Problem, Change, Configuration)
• Maintain accurate CMDB records for network and security assets
• Develop and maintain SOPs, MOPs, and EOPs for network operations
• Participate in internal and external audits providing evidence and documentation
• Support ISO 27001 and hyperscaler audit requirements

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
• 710 years in enterprise network engineering
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in network security
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a data center environment
• Experience working in hyperscaler or colocation environments preferred
• Strong exposure to ITIL-based service management environments

CERTIFICATIONS

Mandatory:

• CCNP Enterprise or CCNP Data Center
• CCNP Security (or equivalent security certification)
• ITIL v4 Foundation

Preferred:

• CCIE (Enterprise / Data Center / Security)
• CISSP or CISM
• ITIL Intermediate / ITIL Expert