Network Security Operations Specialist

Network Security Operations Specialist

Apex Systems is seeking a Network Security Operations Specialist in San Jose, CA.

Position Summary:

We are hiring a Network Security Operations Specialist to strengthen and maintain the company's network defenses. This role is responsible for firewall and access control operations, troubleshooting complex security issues, supporting automation initiatives, and ensuring compliance with strict security and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate has a solid track record in enterprise network security operations, strong technical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively across engineering and security teams.

Key Responsibilities:

Configure, upgrade, and maintain enterprise firewalls and access controls.

Troubleshoot and resolve complex network security issues and access problems.

Decommission and securely retire outdated security equipment.

Test, validate, and deploy network security automation tools.

Write and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for operational tasks.

Support vulnerability management processes, including remediation tracking.

Monitor and analyze logs, IDS/IPS alerts, and SIEM outputs to detect and respond to threats.

Ensure compliance with PCI, SOC2, NYDFS, and other regulatory requirements.

Collaborate with security architects and engineers on cross-team initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field (or equivalent experience).

3+ years of hands-on experience in network security operations.

Proficiency with firewall technologies (Palo Alto, Juniper SRX, Panorama).

Strong knowledge of access management, segmentation, and AAA controls.

Familiarity with SIEM, IDS/IPS, and vulnerability management tools.

Proficiency in Python or other scripting languages for automation.

Solid understanding of enterprise change control and ITSM workflows.

Strong troubleshooting and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Security certifications: Security+, CISSP, CCNA Security, or similar.

Experience with automation frameworks for firewall and security policy management.

Familiarity with ServiceNow, JIRA, or other enterprise ticketing systems.

Background in compliance-driven environments with measurable audit success.

Working Environment:

Role requires occasional after-hours work during maintenance windows or incident response.

Regular collaboration with network engineering, security architects, and application teams.

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.