We are seeking a Senior Network Engineer who delivers reliability, performance, and security at enterprise scale — with Fortinet as the definitive firewall and SD-WAN platform. This role combines deep hands-on expertise with architectural influence and team mentorship. You will design, operate, and evolve hybrid networks spanning Fortinet, Meraki, and Azure, while serving as the highest escalation point for complex, business-critical network issues.
This position is ideal for someone who thrives on solving difficult problems, leading by example, and ensuring the network is never a limiting factor for the business.
Key Responsibilities
Network Architecture & Engineering
- Architect, deploy, and optimize secure, scalable network solutions across on-prem and cloud environments, with Fortinet as the standard firewall and SD-WAN platform.
- Design and operate large-scale Fortinet SD-WAN, site-to-site VPN, routing, and segmentation strategies supporting 650+ connected locations.
- Engineer and maintain Azure networking components including VNets, routing, NSGs, ExpressRoute, and Azure Firewall, contributing to long-term architectural roadmaps.
- Act as the final escalation authority for complex network issues, leading deep-dive troubleshooting and root cause analysis across all layers.
Operations & Reliability
- Ensure high availability, performance, and stability across all network locations.
- Leverage FortiManager and FortiAnalyzer as primary management and visibility tools, alongside enterprise monitoring platforms such as LogicMonitor and SolarWinds.
- Automate, standardize, and document repeatable network processes to reduce operational risk and manual effort.
- Drive operational maturity through ITIL-aligned change, incident, and problem management practices.
Security & Compliance
- Enforce enterprise security standards using Fortinet Security Fabric, segmentation, and zero-trust principles at the edge and core.
- Own firewall policy design, VPN configurations, and SD-WAN routing in close partnership with Security and Cloud teams.
- Support disaster recovery and business continuity through resilient network design and redundancy planning.
Collaboration & Mentorship
- Mentor junior and mid-level network engineers, providing guidance on troubleshooting, documentation, and project execution.
- Partner closely with Infrastructure, Cloud, and Security teams to ensure seamless integration and alignment.
- Participate in design reviews and provide architectural input for upcoming infrastructure initiatives.
Vendor & Partner Management
- Manage relationships with ISPs, carriers, and vendors for circuit delivery, troubleshooting, and escalations.
- Evaluate new Fortinet features, hardware, and connectivity solutions to improve performance, stability, and cost efficiency.
Strategic Initiatives
- Support enterprise modernization efforts including Fortinet SD-WAN expansion, Azure network growth, and automation initiatives.
- Lead network integration efforts for newly acquired locations with minimal disruption.
- Reduce technical debt through standardization, documentation, and lifecycle management.
Required Qualifications (Fortinet Is a Deal Breaker)
- 10+ years of progressive network engineering experience in large enterprise environments.
- Expert-level, hands-on experience with Fortinet FortiGate firewalls, including SD-WAN, VPNs, advanced routing, and security policy design (required).
- Proven experience operating FortiManager and FortiAnalyzer in production environments.
- Solid experience with Meraki and Fortinet switching platforms.
- Deep knowledge of Azure networking (VNets, NSGs, routing, ExpressRoute, Azure Firewall).
- Advanced troubleshooting skills, including packet capture and multi-vendor root cause analysis.
- Experience with enterprise monitoring and configuration management tools (SolarWinds, LogicMonitor, etc.).
- Working knowledge of ITIL frameworks and structured change management.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Preferred Certifications
- Fortinet NSE 5 or higher (strongly preferred)
- Cisco CCNP (or higher)
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate
- ITIL Foundation
Key Competencies
- Fortinet Authority: Recognized expert in FortiGate firewalls and SD-WAN design.
- Resilient Problem Solver: Owns issues end-to-end until resolution.
- Architect-Level Thinker: Designs networks that scale securely with the business.
- Mentor & Collaborator: Elevates team capability through leadership and knowledge sharing.
- Operational Excellence: Builds infrastructure that is stable, repeatable, and dependable.
- Hands-On Expert: Comfortable diving deep into configurations, packet captures, and automation.
Work Environment
- Hybrid: Primarily remote with periodic on-site collaboration in Chicago or Dallas.
- Travel: Up to 15% to data centers or shop locations.
- Culture: Fast-paced, execution-focused, and committed to operational excellence.