NATO Security Infrastructure Specialist (Firewall/Network Security)

Job Posting Organization:
The NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCI Agency) has been operational for over 70 years, dedicated to preserving peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security for nearly one billion citizens across the NATO Alliance. With a workforce of approximately 3000 civilian and military staff, the NCI Agency operates in 29 locations across Europe, North America, and Asia. The agency focuses on providing advanced technology and cyber expertise to support NATO's critical operations, protect airspace, and defend against cyber threats. The mission of the NCI Agency is to maintain NATO's technological edge by hiring, training, and retaining top talent, ensuring that the organization can effectively respond to the evolving security landscape.

Job Overview:
As a NATO Security Infrastructure Specialist based in Mons, Belgium, you will play a crucial role in the transformation of NATO's IT services to support its Digital Endeavour. You will be part of the NATO Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which is responsible for the lifecycle management of cyber security. Your role will involve providing specialist services that encompass scientific, technical, acquisition, operations, maintenance, and sustainment support for NATO Communications and Information Systems (CIS). A typical day will involve managing system changes, overseeing the lifecycle of firewalls, and handling various network security devices. You will be expected to implement and monitor Next-Generation Firewalls, manage firewall policies, develop automation procedures, and collaborate with other teams to ensure robust cyber security measures are in place.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties will include the enterprise-wide implementation, maintenance, and monitoring of Next-Generation Firewalls, utilizing advanced security features. You will manage firewall policies and rules, develop automation procedures to enhance firewall management, and configure, manage, and troubleshoot both existing and newly implemented network security devices, whether on-premises or cloud-based. Additionally, you will be responsible for the management and configuration of Cross Domain Security systems, such as Data-Diodes and Mailguards. Collaboration with other Infrastructure Management and Cyber Security teams will be essential, as will participation in security incident triage activities, including investigation, identification, and remediation of security incidents. For a comprehensive list of duties, please refer to the job description on the NCI Agency career site.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a nationally recognized or certified university in a related discipline, along with at least 2 years of post-related experience. Alternatively, if you do not have a university degree, you may still be considered if you can demonstrate at least 6 years of extensive and progressive expertise in duties relevant to the position. You should have a minimum of 2 years of practical experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining security infrastructure, as well as experience in cyber security activities within large, complex enterprise environments. Strong knowledge and experience with Boundary Protection Devices, including firewall installation and management, is essential, along with extensive expertise in network security and intrusion detection systems.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution is required. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles of computer and communication security, networking, and related disciplines. Candidates without a degree may still be considered based on their extensive experience and demonstrated abilities in relevant areas.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of practical experience in the field of cyber security, specifically in designing, implementing, and maintaining security infrastructure. Experience in large, complex enterprise environments is highly desirable, as is a strong background in network security and intrusion detection systems. The ability to identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities is also crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a 5-year contract with a competitive tax-free salary, along with household and children's allowances. Expatriate staff will receive privileges such as expatriation and education allowances (where applicable) and additional home leave. The role includes excellent private health insurance, generous annual leave of 30 days plus official holidays, and participation in the NATO Pension Scheme. Development programs, including professional training and wellbeing initiatives, are also available. The NCI Agency is committed to being an equal opportunity employer, fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and uniqueness.