Sr. Network Security Engineer

Position Title: Sr. Network Security Engineer

Location: San Diego, CA

Clearance Requirements: Active Secret clearance required

Pay Rate: Conversion salary of $130,000-$140,000

Position Description:

Seneca Resources is seeking a Sr. Network Security Engineer to support mission-critical Department of Defense networking and cybersecurity operations. This is a 100% onsite, contract-to-hire opportunity for an experienced security engineer with strong hands-on expertise in Palo Alto Networks technologies, enterprise network security, Zero Trust architecture, and DoD compliance.

In this role, you will manage, configure, deploy, troubleshoot, and audit perimeter security solutions across on-premises and cloud environments. You will collaborate with technical teams to strengthen network defenses, implement secure connectivity, analyze security events, and support the transition from traditional access models to Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage, configure, deploy, and audit firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), VPNs, and other perimeter security devices.
• Administer Palo Alto Networks next-generation firewalls, Panorama, PAN-OS, and GlobalProtect.
• Design and implement network segmentation, VLANs, firewall rules, IPsec VPNs, and secure site connectivity.
• Troubleshoot VPN client connectivity, firewall traffic, threat logs, and network performance issues.
• Conduct packet analysis and validate port-exception and secure connectivity requests.
• Apply DoD security requirements, including Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), Information Assurance Vulnerability Management (IAVM), and Cybersecurity Technical Orders (CTOs).
• Support log aggregation, security monitoring, and analysis using Splunk, Elastic, or similar platforms.
• Secure and troubleshoot connectivity to AWS and Azure cloud environments.
• Research, implement, and maintain Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) technologies.
• Lead or support migration from traditional network access and port-exception models to Zero Trust architecture.
• Maintain accurate configuration, security, compliance, and operational documentation.
• Recommend performance, security, and reliability improvements for enterprise network infrastructure.

Top Requirements:

• Active Secret clearance.
• 7+ years of professional experience in network security, systems engineering, or a related discipline.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent professional experience.
• One IAT Level II certification required: CySA+, Security+, CCNA Security, GSEC, GICSP, or SSCP.
• Hands-on experience with Palo Alto Networks firewalls, including NGFW, Panorama, PAN-OS, and GlobalProtect.
• Strong knowledge of network security fundamentals, including VLANs, network segmentation, firewall rule implementation, IPsec VPNs, and packet analysis.
• Experience managing and troubleshooting enterprise firewalls, IPS, and VPN technologies in on-premises and cloud environments.
• Experience with firewall traffic and threat log analysis and log aggregation tools such as Splunk or Elastic.
• Experience implementing or migrating to Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) architecture.
• Knowledge of secure cloud networking and connectivity for AWS and Azure.
• Experience applying DoD cybersecurity requirements, including STIGs, IAVMs, and CTOs.
• Strong technical documentation, communication, troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work onsite in San Diego, CA, 100% of the time.

About Seneca Resources

At Seneca Resources, we are more than just a staffing and consulting firm, we are a trusted career partner. With offices across the U.S. and clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to government organizations, we provide opportunities that help professionals grow their careers while making an impact.

When you work with Seneca, you're choosing a company that invests in your success, celebrates your achievements, and connects you to meaningful work with leading organizations nationwide. We take the time to understand your goals and match you with roles that align with your skills and career path. Our consultants and contractors enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plans, and the support of a dedicated team who will advocate for you every step of the way.

Seneca Resources is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.