Networking Expert (Contract)

We are seeking a highly skilled and reliable Network & Firewall Expert on a contract basis to manage, secure, and optimize our office IT infrastructure. In this role, you will wear two hats: ensuring our core network and servers are bulletproof against security threats, while also providing hands-on support to ensure our end-users experience zero downtime in their daily operations.

If you are a proactive troubleshooter who can jump from configuring complex firewall policies to fixing a local workstation issue with ease, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Network & Security Management: Design, configure, maintain, and monitor the office network infrastructure, with a heavy focus on advanced firewall management (policies, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Server Administration: Oversee office servers (physical and/or cloud-based), ensuring maximum uptime, regular backups, patch management, and user access control.
• End-User Support: Act as the go-to technical resource for all staff. Troubleshoot hardware, software, connectivity, and printing issues promptly to ensure seamless daily operations.
• Performance Monitoring: Proactively monitor network traffic and server health to identify and resolve bottlenecks before they impact the team.
• Documentation: Maintain clear logs of network configurations, server setups, credentials, and IT support tickets.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in network administration, network security, or a similar IT infrastructure role.
• Firewall Expertise: Deep, hands-on experience configuring and managing enterprise-grade firewalls (e.g., Fortinet, Cisco ASA, SonicWall, or Sophos).
• Server Mastery: Strong knowledge of Windows Server and/or Linux environments, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and group policies.
• Helpdesk Skills: Proven track record of providing excellent, patient customer service and technical support to non-technical end-users.
• Certifications (Preferred but not required): CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+/Security+, or platform-specific firewall certifications.

Work Location: In person