Network Lead

About the position

Role: Network Lead

On-Site: Colorado Springs, Colorado

Salary: $100,000 - $130,000

As the Network Boundary Lead, you will play a critical role in securing and managing the organization's network perimeters. You will lead the planning, implementation, and oversight of network boundary defense strategies, including firewall architecture, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and other boundary protection technologies.

This role requires a deep understanding of enterprise network infrastructure and cybersecurity best practices, along with strong leadership and communication skills. You'll work closely with IT, cybersecurity, and operations teams to protect the organizations critical information and ensure compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) security standards.
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Key Responsibilities:

Boundary Security & Architecture:

Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of network boundary defense systems.

Oversee the configuration and management of firewalls, proxies, and IDS/IPS systems.

Ensure secure connectivity across multiple networks, including classified and unclassified environments.
Develop and maintain network segmentation strategies to minimize risk.
Governance & Compliance:
Ensure all boundary defense activities align with DoD cybersecurity requirements and frameworks (e.g., RMF, NIST 800-53).
Maintain security documentation and ensure compliance with audit and inspection requirements.
Collaborate with compliance officers to support accreditation and ATO efforts.

Collaboration & Integration:
Work closely with network, cybersecurity, and application teams to ensure seamless integration of boundary controls.
Act as a liaison with external partners, vendors, and government stakeholders.
Provide technical guidance to cross-functional teams on best practices for boundary protection.

Monitoring & Incident Response:
Manage boundary monitoring tools and respond to security events and incidents.
Conduct regular assessments and updates to ensure boundary defenses remain effective against evolving threats.
Implement automation and analytics tools to enhance detection and response capabilities.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement:
Mentor junior engineers and provide training on boundary security practices.
Lead continuous improvement efforts and stay current on emerging threats, technologies, and industry trends.
Drive strategic initiatives to harden network security posture across the enterprise.
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Required Qualifications:
Experience & Expertise:
8+ years of experience in network security, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
Deep knowledge of boundary defense systems and protocols (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, etc.).
Strong understanding of DoD cybersecurity requirements and policies.
Experience supporting DoD or federal environments, including classified systems.

Technical Skills:
Proficiency with technologies such as Palo Alto, Cisco ASA/Firepower, Fortinet, Snort, Suricata, and secure web gateways.
Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, etc.) and secure configurations.
Experience with tools such as Splunk, Wireshark, or other SIEM and packet analysis tools.
Knowledge of STIGs, RMF, and security hardening techniques.

Education:
Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field.
Relevant certifications preferred (e.g., CISSP, CEH, Security+, CCNP Security, Palo Alto CNSE).

Soft Skills:
Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.

Place of work