Cleared Palo Alto Network; PANW Firewall Engineer Security Clearance

Position: Cleared Palo Alto Network (PANW) Firewall Engineer with Security Clearance
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:
Virtual Service Operations 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 a 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 Platform 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
What is Important to Us:
* You are an excellent communicator in writing and speaking.

* You have the ability to work independently but also value teamwork.

* Your problem-solving skills are excellent.

* You are looking for a job where performance appraisals occur regularly, and you look forward to advancing your career.

* You seek a community of…