Network Security Firewall Engineer at Absa Group Limited (Absa)

Job Summary

• Absa Bank is seeking an experienced Network Security Firewall Engineer to join our Network Services Team. The ideal candidate will have experience in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting firewalls, as well as deep expertise in network security best practices, cloud technologies and automation. This is a critical role in protecting the bank's network infrastructure and ensuring the highest levels of security for our clients and internal systems.

Job Description

• Absa Bank is seeking an experienced Network Security Firewall Engineer to join our Network Services Team. The ideal candidate will have experience in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting firewalls, as well as deep expertise in network security best practices, cloud technologies and automation. This is a critical role in protecting the bank's network infrastructure and ensuring the highest levels of security for our clients and internal systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Firewall Configuration & Management:

• Configure, deploy, and maintain firewalls across the bank’s network infrastructure.
• Monitor and analyze firewall logs, ensuring optimal performance and security.
• Review, update, and optimize firewall rule sets to align with security best practices and performance requirements.

Network Security Implementation:

• Implement and manage network security protocols, including VPNs (IPSec, SSL VPN), and other secure communication methods.
• Ensure compliance with relevant security standards and frameworks, including regulatory requirements such as PCI-DSS, GDPR, and industry best practices.

Incident Response & Troubleshooting:

• Lead and support network security incident response efforts, including root cause analysis and mitigation strategies.
• Perform network vulnerability assessments, and proactive security audits.
• Collaborate with security teams to identify, prevent, and address potential security threats to the network.

Collaboration & Documentation:

• Work closely with network engineers, IT support teams, and security teams to implement security controls and resolve complex network security issues.
• Maintain detailed documentation for firewall configurations, network security policies, incident reports, and standard operating procedures.
• Provide guidance and training on network security best practices to internal stakeholders.

Experience Required:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in firewall administration and network security.
• Strong experience with a range of firewall solutions, Fortinet, Pato Alto
• AWS\ Azure Networking

Technical Skills:

• Expertise in networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, VPN, and others.
• Proficiency in firewall rule creation, access control lists (ACLs), NAT, and VPN configuration.
• Solid understanding of network security tools such as IDS/IPS, vulnerability scanners, and SIEM systems.
• Experience with network security in cloud environments (AWS, Azure,) is a plus.
• Experience in automation and coding (Python)
• Certifications (Preferred but not required):
• Fortinet Professional (Preferred)
• AWS Network and security
• Python
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or similar certifications.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills with the ability to identify and resolve complex issues.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a team.
• Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree: Information Technology