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 GlobalProtect
- 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
- 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 virtue-centered co-workers and clients.
What we offer you: As part of the VSO company, you will be part of a virtue-centered team who value their work and teammates. This is a no-jerk zone . We provide ongoing learning and development opportunities to foster continuous growth. We offer competitive salaries, health benefits, and flexible work arrangements.
Salary Description
$90,000 - $190,000