Palo Alto Network; PANW Firewall Engineer Security Clearance

Position: Palo Alto Network (PANW) Firewall Engineer with Security Clearance
Palo Alto Network (PANW) Firewall Engineer

Description:

Are you looking to take the next steps in your career as a Palo Alto Networks Firewall Engineer? Let's chat and see if we are a good match Opportunity:
Our partner is searching for a skilled Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Firewall Engineer to join our team in Reston, VA. In this role, you will deploy and manage a complex firewall environment - including PA-1400, PA-3400 and PA-5500 PQC-capable devices-via Panorama M-700 with 1,000 device licenses, along with VM Series firewalls utilizing VM Flex Credits. You will work directly with security and network teams to migrate, optimize, and maintain Next-Generation Firewall Infrastructure in a mission-critical DoD environment.

If you have extensive experience with Palo Alto Networks products and a passion for enterprise network security, we want to hear from you! Responsibilities:
* Configure, implement and maintain the Security Operating Platforms in a complex DoD environment.
* Optimize and migrate security policies and objects from legacy environments to Next-Gen Firewalls
* Deploy and manage PA-1400, PA-3400, PA-5500, and PA-7000 Series firewalls via Panorama M-700
* Manage VM Series firewalls and VM Flex Credits in virtual firewall environments
* Test and validate migration environments and coordinate cutover to production
* Provide guidance on code upgrades and facilitate development of new application and threat signatures
* Interact with the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) to understand and resolve support cases
* Understand customer environments, requirements, and security roadmaps to implement appropriate security solutions
* Communicate effectively with customers, sales teams, peers, engineering, and support teams
* Work with security and network teams to build confidence across business units impacted by changes
* Some travel may be required depending on customer request

Qualifications:

* 7-9 years of experience with network and security solutions and technologies
* Minimum 5 years of experience with BGP, SD-WAN concepts, VXLAN, and general routing and switching
* Minimum 3 years of experience leading security solutions in large, complex environments
* Extensive hands-on knowledge of Palo Alto Networks products including PA-7000 Series, PA-5500 Series, PA-3400 Series, and VM Series
* High-level experience with Panorama and log collectors
* Proficiency with NGFW and Global Protect
* Detailed technical experience in the installation, configuration, and operation of high-end firewall appliances
* Strong experience in internetworking, LAN, and WAN technologies
* Solid understanding of internet protocols and applications
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders and technical peers
* Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work calmly under pressure
* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, MIS, Business, or equivalent education, training, or experience

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience with PA-1400 and PA-5500 PQC-capable devices
* Familiarity with DoD security frameworks and classified network environments
* Experience supporting large-scale firewall migrations in enterprise or government settings Requirements:
* Must be within driving distance of Reston, VA or willing to relocate
* Must be willing to work fully on-site
* Active TS-SCI clearance with CI Polygraph - required at time of application
* Minimum Security+ certification required (SecurityX / CASP+ acceptable)
* Required certification: CNSE/PCSNE or Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer
* Preferred additional certifications: CISSP, CCNA, JNCIE-SEC
* Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent attention to detail
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-focused environment
* Must be willing and able to travel as required