Network Security Consultant

Summary: The Network Security Consultant role in Macclesfield, UK, involves designing and implementing network infrastructure automation aligned with business and IT goals. The consultant will conduct security assessments, design secure network architectures, and monitor security incidents. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to enforce security policies and ensure compliance with regulations. The role is a long-term contract classified as inside IR35.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular security assessments, including penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, to identify and remediate potential security risks.
• Design and implement secure network architectures, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption technologies.
• Adhere to enterprise governance & review processes to deliver project goals & deliverables.
• Follow enterprise ITSM & CMDB processes.
• Monitor and analyse security alerts using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, and respond to security incidents in a timely and effective manner.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and enforce identity and access management (IAM) policies and network access control (NAC) solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest security threats, industry trends, and best practices to proactively enhance the organization's network security posture.
• Ensure compliance with relevant security regulations and standards and assist in audit processes as needed.

Key Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Proven experience in network security, with a strong understanding of network security fundamentals, encryption technologies, and secure network design principles.
• Proficiency in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting firewalls (Cisco, Palo Alto, etc.).
• Experience with intrusion detection/prevention systems, as well as with SIEM tools and security incident response.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional/Expert in Security, Zscaler Digital Transformation Administrator, Zscaler Zero Trust Certified Associate, Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate or Professional, Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA), Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE), Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA), Check Point Certified Security Expert (CCSE), and Certified Network Security Professional (e.g., CISSP, CompTIA Security+).

Salary (Rate): undetermined

City: Macclesfield

Country: United Kingdom

Working Arrangements: hybrid

IR35 Status: inside IR35

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: IT