Senior Network Engineer

Description : Job Description : Senior Engineer Networking.Role Overview : - The Network Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and securing the organizations network infrastructure across head office and branch locations.- This role involves hands-on management of firewalls, switches, wireless access points, VPNs, routing, network security, and cloud integrations.- The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Sophos and Cisco technologies, excellent troubleshooting abilities, and the capability to support a fast-paced IT environment.Roles & Responsibilities : Firewall & Security Management : - Configure, manage, and monitor Sophos Firewalls (XGS Series), including VPN, IPS, NAT, Application & Web Filtering, and HA.- Implement and maintain Site-to-Site and SSL VPN connectivity for branches and remote users.- Configure and manage firewall rules, IPS policies, URL filtering, and overall network security posture.- Regularly apply firmware upgrades, patches, and security policy updates.Switching & Routing : - Manage Cisco Layer 2/3 switches, including VLAN configuration, port management, trunking, and inter-VLAN routing.- Troubleshoot routing, switching, and connectivity issues across LAN/WAN environments.- Ensure optimal routing performance and network stability across locations.Wireless Network Management : - Manage and optimize wireless networks using Sophos Central.- Ensure secure Wi-Fi operations, coverage optimization, and access control.- Troubleshoot wireless connectivity issues and enhance wireless user experience.Network Performance & Monitoring : - Monitor LAN/WAN performance across HO and branch locations.- Use tools such as SolarWinds, ManageEngine, or similar to monitor network availability and performance.- Conduct proactive maintenance to prevent downtime and performance degradation.Cloud & Server Integration : - Support integration of network infrastructure with Microsoft 365, Azure, and other cloud services.- Assist IT teams with server, mail routing, and cloud networking configurations.Network Design & Implementation : - Design and implement scalable, secure, and resilient network solutions based on business needs.- Evaluate existing infrastructure and recommend upgrades for performance, reliability, and security.Troubleshooting & Operations Support : - Diagnose and resolve daily network issues : user connectivity, routing, switching, VPNs, wireless, and firewall-related problems.- Coordinate with ISPs for link provisioning, outages, performance issues, and bandwidth optimization.Documentation & Governance : - Maintain accurate documentation for network topology, configurations, IP schema, and change logs.- Create troubleshooting guides, SOPs, and configuration records.Vendor & Stakeholder Management : - Coordinate with vendors for hardware/software procurement, support contracts, and network enhancement initiatives.- Work closely with internal IT and systems teams to ensure fully integrated and stable network operations.Technical Skills & Expertise Required : Core Networking Skills : - Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), and subnetting.- Experience with firewalls, routers, managed switches, Wi-Fi APs, and load balancers.Firewall & Security Expertise : - Hands-on experience with Sophos Firewall (XGS Series) and Sophos Central Wireless.- Exposure to SonicWall, Juniper, Cisco, Aruba, or Ubiquiti is a plus.- Knowledge of VPN technologies (IPSec, SSL), IDS/IPS, and security best practices.Wireless & Branch Networking : - Experience with wireless network design and troubleshooting across multiple sites.- Familiarity with enterprise Wi-Fi systems (Sophos, Cisco, SonicWall, Aruba, Ubiquiti).Cloud & Advanced Networking : - Understanding of Azure/AWS/Google Cloud networking.- Experience with Microsoft 365 mail routing and hybrid connectivity.- Exposure to SD-WAN solutions or network automation tools (desirable).- Basic understanding of VoIP systems and QoS configurations.Soft Skills : - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work under pressure.- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.- Ability to document configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting steps clearly.Required Qualifications & Experience : - Bachelors Degree in Engineering or a related discipline. (ref:hirist.tech)