Network Security ENgineer (Remote in MD/VA/DE/PA/NJ)

Job Description:
We are looking for a skilled Network Security Engineer to join our IT team and play a pivotal role in safeguarding our network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have experience in deploying, managing, and optimizing network security solutions, with expertise in Checkpoint Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), DNS security, or Nessus vulnerability scanning. This position requires a proactive individual who is capable of identifying, mitigating, and preventing network security risks while ensuring business continuity and compliance with security standards. This is a 6 month contract to direct hire (can stay on as contractor vs convert if desired), fully remote but candidates need to be located in MD/DC/VA/DE/ PA/ NJ.

Responsibilities:

• Firewall Management (Checkpoint):
• Configure, monitor, and maintain Checkpoint Firewalls to secure the organization’s network perimeter.
• Implement firewall policies, rules, and access controls based on security best practices.
• Perform regular security audits of firewall configurations and make necessary updates.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS):
• Deploy and manage Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) to identify and respond to potential threats.
• Analyze IDS alerts, investigate incidents, and recommend corrective actions to prevent breaches.
• Tune IDS sensors to improve accuracy and reduce false positives.
• DNS Security:
• Implement DNS security measures to ensure the integrity and availability of DNS services.
• Identify and mitigate DNS-related vulnerabilities and misconfigurations.
• Monitor DNS traffic for potential abuse or malicious activity and ensure proper DNS filtering mechanisms are in place.
• Vulnerability Scanning (Nessus):
• Utilize Nessus or similar tools to perform regular vulnerability assessments across the network.
• Analyze scan results, prioritize vulnerabilities, and work with IT teams to remediate issues.
• Document and track progress on vulnerability remediation efforts.
• Network Monitoring & Incident Response:
• Continuously monitor network traffic and logs to detect unusual activity or threats.
• Develop and maintain incident response procedures to ensure timely and effective handling of security incidents.
• Conduct post-incident analysis and recommend improvements to prevent future occurrences.
• Security Policies & Compliance:
• Ensure network security policies are in place and enforce adherence to security best practices.
• Stay updated on the latest security threats, vulnerabilities, and regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, etc.).
• Work with the compliance team to ensure all security solutions meet regulatory and audit requirements.
• Collaboration & Documentation:
• Collaborate with other IT teams to design secure network solutions that meet business needs.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation for security configurations, processes, and incident reports.
• Provide training and support to other IT staff on security-related issues.