Job Description Summary
Organization Summary Statement:
This position is available within the University of Maryland’s Division of Information Technology (DIT).
Job Summary:
The University of Maryland is seeking an experienced Palo Alto Firewall Engineer to design, implement, manage, and optimize firewall solutions in a complex academic and research-driven network environment. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Palo Alto Networks firewalls, network security, and policy-driven threat prevention strategies. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work independently, and experience working in higher education IT environments.
This position is considered essential and may be required to work at the normal work location or an alternative location during a major catastrophic event, weather emergency, or other operational emergency to help maintain the continuity of University services.
Physical Demands:
Predominantly operates in an office environment though significant periods of time may be spent in computer room and communications equipment spaces for installation, testing, and troubleshooting. Some work (less than 5%) requires moving and lifting of heavy communications equipment. Position also requires being on call to provide some outside of business hours support. This position is considered an essential position and may be required to work at the normal work location or an alternative location during a major catastrophic event, weather emergency, or other operational emergencies to help maintain continuity of University services
Licenses/ Certifications:
Relevant certifications such as Palo Alto Networks PCNSE, CISSP, CCNP Security, or equivalent are highly desirable.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Experience: Five (5) years of professional experience in IT Security. Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education. Knowledge of developing and implementing security projects and programs. Knowledge of the operating principles of network security devices including intrusion detection, prevention systems, and firewalls. Skill in oral and written communication. Skill in the use of Google Office Suite. Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, regulations, and laws. Ability to multitask while demonstrating a commitment to customer service and sensitivity to a culturally and ethnically diverse community.
Additional Job Details
Preferences:
3+ years of hands-on experience with Palo Alto Networks firewalls (PA-series, Panorama, GlobalProtect, WildFire, etc.).
Strong understanding of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, BGP, OSPF, etc.) and security concepts (IDS/IPS, SIEM, DLP, Zero Trust, etc.).
Experience with cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP) and securing hybrid university environments.
Proficiency in scripting (Python, PowerShell, or Ansible) for automation and network security operations.
Hands-on experience with logging, monitoring, and analysis tools such as Splunk, Elastic, or Palo Alto Cortex XSOAR.
Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills in resolving complex security and networking issues.
Strong understanding of regulatory compliance frameworks including FERPA, HIPAA, NIST 800-171, and EDUCAUSE guidelines.
Strong verbal and written communication skills to document processes and interact with university stakeholders effectively.
Visa Sponsorship Information:
Required Application Materials: Resume, Cover Letter, List of References
Best Consideration Date: May 30, 2025
Open Until Filled: Yes
Job Risks
Not Applicable to This Position
Financial Disclosure Required
No
For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.
Department
DIT-EE-Network and Infrastructure Services
Worker Sub-Type
Staff Regular
Salary Range
$120,000-$144,000
Benefits Summary
For more information on Regular Exempt benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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