Lead Network Security Engineer (Hybrid – Tampa, FL)

What’s in It for Me?

Take on a senior engineering role where you will shape, secure, and elevate critical network environments across both IT and industrial systems. This position is ideal for a highly experienced, proactive professional who thrives on leadership, advanced problem-solving, and hands‑on engagement with modern technologies.

Where You’ll Work

This hybrid position requires onsite presence Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday each week at a Tampa-area location, with flexibility to work remotely on the remaining days.

Job Details

Contract: 2‑month initial engagement with the potential to extend or convert to full‑time
Pay: $55–$65/hr (W2)
Location: Hybrid – Tampa, FL
Travel: Up to 10%, including periodic travel to Texas, Panama, Aruba, and Curaçao
Schedule: Standard business hours

Role Overview

You will serve as the lead engineer responsible for the administration, security, and optimization of network infrastructure spanning both enterprise and industrial operational environments. This includes managing cybersecurity programs, overseeing multi‑discipline engineering contributors, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

This role blends leadership, architecture, strategy, and hands‑on engineering, making it ideal for someone who enjoys stepping into a technical authority position.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain, secure, and administer enterprise and industrial network systems
Troubleshoot complex issues involving network hardware, software, remote access, VPN, and SCADA‑related equipment
Lead disaster recovery and backup strategy improvements (AWS experience preferred)
Conduct intrusion detection, prevention, and security testing activities
Develop, implement, and continuously improve IT security strategy
Benchmark network and security configurations for performance and design validation
Manage network configuration and deployment (Meraki, Cisco, Dell)
Design and maintain firewall rule sets and policies (Meraki)
Produce professional network diagrams and operational documentation for leadership and project teams
Design and support industrial control networks (Rockwell Automation, Stratix switches preferred)
Monitor network performance, alarms, and device health (Netbrain, Wazuh a plus)
Recommend enhancements to reduce downtime and improve operational resilience
Guide and mentor analysts and engineers across functional teams
Train internal personnel on cybersecurity best practices

Required Qualifications

Ability to travel up to 10% (Texas, Panama, Aruba, Curaçao)
10+ years of related network engineering experience
CCNA, CCNP R&S, or equivalent hands‑on expertise
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
Experience with at least two of the following:
TCP/IP network design, implementation, administration, support
Network security architecture and administration
Network monitoring and management
Remote access and VPN platforms
Deep knowledge of network hardware, software, systems engineering, access control, firewalls, and cybersecurity posture
Experience with IT strategy development, portfolio management, and systems engineering disciplines
Preferred experience with industrial networks and SCADA controls (Rockwell, Stratix)
Excellent communication skills, capable of working across functional teams toward shared solutions
Strong analytical skills and proficiency with technical writing and diagramming tools