Senior Network Security Engineer

General Description

Join a well-established, enterprise organization in Abu Dhabi delivering large-scale infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. We are looking for an experienced Senior Network & Security Administrator to manage and strengthen enterprise network environments while ensuring robust cybersecurity standards across the organization.

This role is ideal for a hands-on infrastructure and security professional who can balance deep technical expertise with strong stakeholder communication. You will play a key role in securing and optimizing network environments, while working closely with internal teams, vendors, and business stakeholders.

This is a contract role with strong potential for extension and long-term conversion, supporting mission-critical enterprise systems.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain secure network infrastructures across LAN, WAN, WLAN, and VPN environments

Administer and optimize network devices including firewalls (Palo Alto, Fortinet), routers, switches, and security appliances

Monitor network performance and security events to ensure high availability, reliability, and protection

Conduct vulnerability assessments and implement remediation strategies to strengthen security posture

Enforce network security policies, standards, and technical documentation

Collaborate with vendors and service providers to resolve network and security incidents

Lead infrastructure upgrades, patching cycles, and firmware updates

Manage user access controls and ensure proper privilege and identity management

Ensure compliance with cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001 and NIST

Investigate and respond to security incidents and network breaches

Support disaster recovery (DR) and business continuity planning (BCP) initiatives

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior IT team members

Engage with stakeholders across the business to ensure clear communication and alignment

Required Skills & Experience

58+ years of experience in Network & Security Administration within mid-to-large enterprise environments

Strong hands-on experience with firewalls, particularly Palo Alto and Fortinet

Experience with tools such as FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, Cisco ASA, and SIEM platforms

Solid understanding of network architecture, cybersecurity frameworks, and incident response

Proven ability to manage complex infrastructure environments and lead technical initiatives

Strong stakeholder management and communication skills (critical for this role)

Experience working with vendors and cross-functional teams

Relevant certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, Fortinet NSE, Palo Alto PCNSE are highly preferred

Engagement Details

Engagement Type: Contract / Freelance

Location: Abu Dhabi (Onsite)

Start Date: ASAP or at least 2 weeks