Cybersecurity Technologist
Location: Houston, TX
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Cybersecurity Technologist to support and secure critical network infrastructure within a high-availability 24/7 operating environment. This role will be responsible for the design, implementation, administration, and optimization of Palo Alto security solutions while ensuring the stability, performance, and security of enterprise network operations.
The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on experience with Palo Alto technologies, advanced troubleshooting capabilities, and a deep understanding of modern cybersecurity best practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, configure, and support Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW) in enterprise environments.
- Administer and maintain GlobalProtect and Panorama for centralized firewall and security management.
- Develop, implement, and optimize security policies including:
- NAT
- Security Profiles
- URL Filtering
- Threat Prevention
- SSL Decryption
- Monitor and maintain security infrastructure supporting a 24/7 high-availability network environment.
- Perform advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis of network and security-related incidents.
- Conduct deep packet analysis utilizing Wireshark, PAN-OS logs, and other diagnostic tools.
- Review firewall logs, traffic patterns, and security events to identify threats and improve network security posture.
- Collaborate with infrastructure, operations, and security teams to implement network security best practices.
- Support incident response activities and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
- Document network configurations, security policies, procedures, and technical findings.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience with Palo Alto Networks technologies.
- Proven experience designing, configuring, and supporting:
- Palo Alto NGFW
- Panorama
- GlobalProtect
- Experience managing and supporting critical network operations in a 24/7 high-availability environment.
- Strong knowledge of firewall policy management, NAT, routing, and network security architecture.
- Advanced troubleshooting and analytical skills.
- Experience performing packet captures and traffic analysis using Wireshark.
- Ability to perform detailed log analysis and root cause investigations utilizing PAN-OS.
- Strong understanding of enterprise networking concepts including TCP/IP, routing, switching, VPNs, and security protocols.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Palo Alto Networks certifications (PCNSA, PCNSE) preferred.
- Experience supporting enterprise-scale security environments.
- Familiarity with security monitoring, threat detection, and incident response methodologies.
- Experience working within regulated or mission-critical environments.
What We're Looking For
- Strong technical ownership and accountability.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating across multiple teams.
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Detail-oriented professional capable of supporting business-critical infrastructure.
- Passion for cybersecurity, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
Please Note: Candidates must have a minimum of 7 years of hands-on Palo Alto firewall administration and configuration experience to be considered.