Senior Network Security Engineer

Job Purpose

The American University in the Emirates is seeking a highly experienced Senior Network Security Engineer to lead the design, implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of the University's network and cybersecurity infrastructure. The role is responsible for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of enterprise systems and data through advanced security controls, proactive threat management, risk mitigation, and security governance. The Senior Network Security Engineer will serve as a technical leader, providing guidance on security architecture, best practices, and strategic initiatives across the University.

Qualifications & Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Master's degree in Information Security, Cybersecurity, or related discipline is preferred.
• CCNP Security is required; CCIE Security is an advantage.
• Professional security certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, CompTIA Security+, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Experience

• Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in Network Security Engineering and Cybersecurity.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in designing, implementing, and managing enterprise security solutions and secure network architectures.
• Proven experience in higher education, large enterprise environments, or complex multi-site infrastructures is preferred.
• Experience leading security projects and mentoring junior engineers and administrators.

Skills / Training / Knowledge

• Expert knowledge of network security architecture, security frameworks, and best practices.
• Advanced hands-on experience with enterprise firewalls (Fortinet, SonicWall, Cisco, Palo Alto, etc.), IDS/IPS solutions, SIEM platforms, endpoint protection, and VPN technologies.
• Strong expertise in Microsoft 365 Security Suite, Azure Security, Identity and Access Management (IAM), and Zero Trust security principles.
• In-depth knowledge of database, operating system, cloud, and application security.
• Experience with vulnerability management, penetration testing, threat intelligence, and incident response.
• Thorough understanding of cybersecurity standards and frameworks such as ISO 27001, NIST, CIS Controls, and GDPR principles.
• Strong knowledge of risk assessment methodologies, security auditing, compliance requirements, and governance frameworks.
• Experience with Linux, Windows Server, VMware, Hyper-V, and cloud-based infrastructures.
• Expertise in disaster recovery planning, business continuity, digital forensics, and security incident investigations.
• Strong understanding of network protocols, routing, switching, TCP/IP, VLANs, WAN technologies, and wireless security.
• Experience with SAN storage solutions, backup technologies, and data protection strategies.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, documentation, reporting, and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate technical security risks and recommendations to executive management and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Must be available for critical incident response and major service outages when required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, administration, and optimization of the University's network and cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Develop and maintain secure network architectures and security standards aligned with institutional objectives and industry best practices.
• Manage and support enterprise security solutions including firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, endpoint protection, web security gateways, NAC systems, and SIEM platforms.
• Conduct security risk assessments, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing reviews, and remediation planning.
• Monitor emerging cybersecurity threat