At a Glance
- Tasks: Engineer and operate advanced firewall platforms and design secure connectivity patterns.
- Company: Dynamic tech firm in London with a focus on network security.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance role, hybrid work model, and opportunities for skill enhancement.
- Other info: Engage with top vendors and drive automation in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team and shape the future of network security.
- Qualifications: Expertise in firewall platforms and strong troubleshooting skills required.
Reports to Head of Data Centre and Network Services.
Responsibilities:
- Engineer and operate firewall platforms (Palo Alto, FortiGate), F5 BIG-IP, IPS, and proxy/SWG solutions — including rule lifecycle management, policy optimisation, and senior incident response.
- Design and enforce macro/micro-segmentation strategies across Cisco ACI, firewall-based, and hybrid fabric models.
- Architect secure proxy, TLS inspection, and Zero Trust connectivity patterns for on-prem, cloud, and hybrid traffic flows.
- Deliver HLDs, LLDs, runbooks, and design standards; provide technical sign-off and risk assessments for major programmes.
- Support compliance and audit with traceable, governance-aligned documentation.
- Engage vendors (Palo Alto, Fortinet, F5) and stakeholders across Infrastructure, Cyber Security, and Risk.
- Drive automation and improvement across rule management, ACI workflows, and compliance validation.
Requirements:
- Hands-on expertise with Palo Alto, FortiGate, F5 BIG-IP, and proxy/SWG platforms.
- Strong L2–L7 troubleshooting and incident leadership.
- Cisco ACI security and policy design experience.
- Regulated environment experience (e.g., financial services) with strong audit documentation skills.
Preferred:
- Cloud security (Azure/AWS), SASE/Zero Trust transformation, automation via Python, Ansible, or IaC.
Lead Network Security Engineer/ Architect - freelance - hybrid, London, UK employer: Comgent
As a Lead Network Security Engineer/Architect at our London-based company, you will thrive in a dynamic and innovative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. We offer competitive freelance opportunities with the flexibility of hybrid working, alongside access to cutting-edge technologies and a collaborative environment that encourages continuous learning and professional advancement. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the field of network security while enjoying the unique advantages of working in one of the world's most vibrant cities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Network Security Engineer/ Architect - freelance - hybrid, London, UK
✨Get Active on Cybersecurity Forums
Join platforms like Stack Exchange and Reddit’s r/cybersecurity to hang out with industry pros, learn the latest, and share your insights. This will not only boost your visibility but also help you connect with potential clients who might need your freelance services.
✨Show Off Your Skills with Public Projects
Create a few open-source projects or contribute to existing ones that showcase your cybersecurity skills. Use GitHub to display your work, as this is an excellent way to attract clients looking for freelancers with a proven track record.
✨Attend Local Conferences and Meetups
Make sure to hit up cybersecurity meetups, workshops, and conferences in your area. These events are goldmines for networking, and you’ll often find people looking for freelancers after a chat over a coffee – so come prepared with your business cards and a killer elevator pitch!
✨Market Yourself Smartly
Set up a professional website that showcases your portfolio, expertise, and client testimonials. Optimise it for SEO with relevant keywords so potential clients searching for cybersecurity freelancers can easily find you. Don’t forget to link to your site on all your social media and profiles!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Network Security Engineer/ Architect - freelance - hybrid, London, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Skills Through a Strong Portfolio:Since you're applying for a freelance role in cybersecurity, it's crucial to showcase your technical skills through a detailed portfolio. Include case studies of projects you've worked on, any security tools you've developed or assessed, and specifics on the methodologies you’ve used. This will help Comgent understand what you're capable of.
Certifications Matter!:Make sure to list any relevant certifications you hold, such as CISSP, CEH, or CompTIA Security+. Freelance clients often value these credentials as they reflect your expertise and commitment to the field. If you’re actively pursuing more certifications, don’t hesitate to mention that too!
Rates, Availability, and Your Work Style:In your application, it’s essential to be clear about your freelance rates and availability. Clients appreciate transparency. Mention how many hours a week you can dedicate and your preferred working hours, as this sets expectations from the start and shows you're organised and professional.
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Cybersecurity Experience:When crafting your CV, make sure to tailor it specifically to cybersecurity. Highlight projects, tasks, and achievements related to security assessments, vulnerabilities you've mitigated, or compliance work you've undertaken. Keywords relevant to the job can grab attention and increase your chances of landing a spot at Comgent.
How to prepare for a job interview at Comgent
✨Showcase Your Cybersecurity Skills
As a freelancer in cybersecurity, it’s crucial we demonstrate not just our knowledge but our practical skills too. Be ready to discuss specific tools you’ve used, like Wireshark or Metasploit, and share relevant experiences where you identified vulnerabilities or mitigated risks in past projects.
✨Prepare Your Portfolio
Unlike traditional roles, freelancing relies heavily on your portfolio. Let’s curate a selection of past work that showcases our best projects. If we’ve handled penetration tests, audits, or incident responses, be sure to highlight these in your portfolio, and share any client testimonials if we have them.
✨Stay Updated on Trends and Tools
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so we should be prepared to chat about recent developments and how they impact our work. Familiarise ourselves with the latest threats, tools, and frameworks, like MITRE ATT&CK, that are pertinent to the projects we’re pitching.
✨Pitching Your Value as a Freelancer
When freelancing, we often need to negotiate our rates and value propositions. Be ready to explain how our skills can help Comgent protect their assets and manage risks. It can help to outline some potential strategies or improvements we could implement for them based on their current setup.
