One of our esteemed clients in the IT and Telecoms industry is looking for an already skilled Senior Firewall Change Management Specialist to join their team, on a 3 year contract. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the secure and compliant management of firewall configurations and network security infrastructure using the Skybox Security platform. The Senior Specialist will be responsible for leading and executing firewall change management processes, ensuring ongoing assurance, and supporting compliance initiatives to protect our organization’s network infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities
Firewall Change Management:
Lead and manage firewall change processes, ensuring changes are well-documented, reviewed, tested, and implemented in line with best practices and security policies.

Skybox Security Platform Utilization:
Leverage the advanced capabilities of the Skybox Security platform to automate firewall change management, monitor configurations, and identify security risks across the network.

Compliance & Assurance:
Ensure that firewall changes and network security infrastructure align with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal security policies.

Risk Assessment:
Conduct thorough risk assessments for proposed changes, ensuring minimal disruption to network operations and security.

Collaboration & Communication:
Work closely with cross-functional teams, including network engineers, security analysts, and compliance officers, to ensure smooth implementation of changes and adherence to security protocols.

Reporting & Documentation:
Maintain detailed logs of all firewall changes, perform audits to ensure compliance, and generate reports for senior management and regulatory bodies.

Continuous Improvement:
Identify opportunities to improve the efficiency, security, and compliance of firewall change management processes, recommending and implementing enhancements as necessary.

Training & Mentorship:
Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members and stakeholders regarding firewall management best practices and the use of Skybox Security.

Minimum Requirements
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CCSP, or equivalent) are a plus.

Experience:
At least 5-7 years of experience in firewall management, with a focus on change management, security, and compliance. Proven experience with the Skybox Security platform is highly preferred.

Technical Expertise:
Strong understanding of firewall technologies (e.g., Palo Alto Networks, Check Point, Cisco ASA) and network security protocols. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS) and their impact on firewall management.

Problem-Solving Skills:
Ability to identify and resolve complex security issues related to firewall configuration and network security.

Communication Skills:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Leadership:
Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to drive change, mentor team members, and collaborate effectively across departments.

Preferred Skills:
Experience with security automation and orchestration tools.
Familiarity with security incident management and response procedures.
Knowledge of cloud security and hybrid environments.

Job Type:
Contract
Workplace type:
Onsite
Location:
Johannesburg, South Africa
Experience Level:
Mid-Senior level