Network Security Engineer - On-site in Austin, TX | Contract-to-Hire

Robert Half is proud to partner with a leading enterprise client in Austin, Texas to find a skilled Network Security Engineer. This exciting contract-to-hire opportunity focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining a resilient, scalable, and secure network environment using cutting-edge next-generation firewalls and advanced security management platforms. If you're passionate about cybersecurity, network architecture, and threat protection, this role offers hands-on experience in a dynamic tech hub.

About the Role

As a Network Security Engineer, you'll play a critical role in safeguarding enterprise infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. This on-site position in Austin, TX, requires deep expertise in perimeter security, firewall configurations, and incident response. Our client values professionals who can architect secure networks while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and operational excellence. With Austin's booming tech scene, you'll contribute to high-impact projects in a city known for innovation at companies like Dell, IBM, and countless startups. The contract-to-hire structure provides stability and a pathway to long-term employment, making it ideal for seasoned engineers seeking growth.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day will involve a blend of proactive design, hands-on implementation, and reactive support. Key duties include:

• Designing, implementing, and maintaining secure network and perimeter security architecture to protect against unauthorized access.
• Configuring and supporting next-generation firewalls, with expertise in high availability clustering, site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs, and advanced threat protection features like intrusion prevention and URL filtering.
• Deploying and managing centralized security management and analytics platforms for streamlined oversight and reporting.
• Monitoring security events in real-time, analyzing anomalies using SIEM tools, and orchestrating timely incident responses to minimize downtime.
• Conducting routine security assessments, vulnerability scans, and supporting compliance initiatives such as NIST, ISO 27001, or SOC 2 requirements.
• Maintaining comprehensive documentation for all configurations, change procedures, and operational standards to ensure audit readiness.
• Providing senior-level technical troubleshooting for complex issues, collaborating with infrastructure, application, and DevOps teams.
• Participating in on-call rotations for after-hours support, ensuring 24/7 security posture.

These responsibilities demand a proactive mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced enterprise setting.

Required Qualifications

To succeed, candidates should have 5+ years of experience in network security engineering, with proven hands-on work in enterprise environments. Essential qualifications include:

• Deep proficiency in next-generation firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Cisco Firepower).
• Expertise in VPN technologies, high availability setups, and advanced threat detection/prevention.
• Experience with security analytics platforms like Splunk, ELK Stack, or vendor-specific tools.
• Strong incident response skills, including log analysis and forensic investigation.
• Familiarity with compliance frameworks and risk management practices.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Senior-level troubleshooting abilities across multi-vendor environments.
• Availability for on-call duties and a security-focused mindset.

A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field is preferred, along with relevant certifications like CISSP, CCNP Security, PCNSE, or equivalent.

Why Join Us?

Join Robert Half and our client's team in Austin, Texas, United States for unparalleled opportunities in cybersecurity. Enjoy a competitive salary estimated at $90,000-$110,000 annually (based on $43/hour context and market rates), contract-to-hire flexibility, and immersion in Austin's thriving tech ecosystem. Benefits include professional development through Robert Half's network, exposure to state-of-the-art tools, collaborative culture, and the chance to build a resilient security posture for a forward-thinking organization. Austin offers an unbeatable lifestyle with live music, outdoor activities, and tech innovation. Apply now to secure your future in network security engineering!

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