Senior Network Engineer

I'm currently seeking a hands-on Senior Network Engineer on a contract basis for my client to deliver critical network transformation projects across our hybrid (on-premises and cloud) environments. This role requires deep technical expertise in network architecture, operations, and cybersecurity best practices, with a strong focus on execution and delivery.
Engagement Scope:

• Deliver a network refresh (firewall, switches, and routers) across both office and Birmingham data centre.
  
• Assist the DevOps team in establishing connectivity to a major critical infrastructure services provider via a dedicated MPLS circuit.
  
• Lead the design and implementation of a network segmentation project in AWS, separating production and non-production environments.
  Key Responsibilities:
  
• Design, implement, and support enterprise network infrastructure across Cisco and Palo Alto on-premises environments, and Azure/AWS cloud platforms.
  
• Lead deployment and optimisation of SD-WAN and SASE/SSE technologies (e.g., Netskope, Zscaler, Cisco Umbrella).
  
• Manage and maintain secure network architectures including firewalls, VPNs, switching, routing, and load balancing (HAProxy).
  
• Monitor, analyse, and optimise network performance and security posture.
  
• Implement security policies aligned with ISO 27001, NIST, and CIS frameworks.
  
• Produce detailed documentation for configurations, processes, and troubleshooting.
  
• Collaborate with global cloud, security, and infrastructure teams for consistent, secure operations.
  
• Support incident response, root cause analysis, and ongoing improvements.
  Required Skills & Experience:
  
• Extensive experience executing network refresh projects.
  
• Strong expertise with Cisco, Palo Alto, HAProxy, and Azure networking.
  
• Solid understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, VLANs, firewall policies, and routing protocols (BGP, OSPF).
  
• Proven track record with SD-WAN deployments.
  
• Practical knowledge of SSE/SASE platforms (e.g., Netskope, Zscaler, Prisma Access).
  
• Experience with AWS and/or Azure networking (VPC/VNet, transit gateways, peering, VPNs).
  
• Proficiency with monitoring and troubleshooting tools (NetFlow, Wireshark, CloudWatch, Grafana).
  
• Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.
  Preferred Certifications:
  
• Cisco: CCNP, CCIE
  
• AWS: Advanced Networking, Solutions Architect
  
• Microsoft: Azure Network Engineer Associate, Azure Solutions Architect Expert
  
• Palo Alto: PCNSA, PCNSE
  
• Familiarity with automation tools (Ansible, Terraform).
  
• Experience in regulated or enterprise-scale environments.
  If you have the technical depth, project delivery skills, and hands-on experience to deliver on critical infrastructure objectives I would love to hear from you