At a Glance
- Tasks: Engineer and operate advanced firewall platforms and design secure connectivity patterns.
- Company: Dynamic tech firm committed to inclusivity and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid work, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a team that values diversity and offers excellent career advancement.
- Why this job: Lead impactful security projects in a collaborative environment while enhancing your skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in firewall platforms and strong troubleshooting skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Contract | Comgent | United Kingdom
Posted On 04/21/2026
Standard Business working Hours Yes
Work Experience 8-10
City London
State/Province City of London
Special Considerations: We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and encourage applications from women and other under-represented groups in tech. All qualified candidates are welcome.
Start date: May/ June 2026
Location: London, UK (Hybrid — minimum 2 days per week in office)
Job Description:
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
At Comgent, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Lead Network Security Engineer/Architect in London, you'll benefit from a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, alongside opportunities for professional growth through engaging projects and collaboration with industry-leading vendors. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and excellence in network security.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Network Security Engineer/ Architect- freelance - hybrid, London, UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend meetups, webinars, or conferences related to network security. Engaging with others in the field can lead to valuable connections and potential job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills through projects! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience with firewall platforms like Palo Alto and FortiGate. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also gives you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your troubleshooting skills. Be ready to discuss real-world scenarios where you've successfully managed incidents or optimised policies. We want to see how you think on your feet!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to an inclusive workplace.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Network Security Engineer/ Architect- freelance - hybrid, London, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Network Security Engineer/Architect role. Highlight your hands-on experience with Palo Alto, FortiGate, and F5 BIG-IP, as well as any relevant projects that showcase your skills in network security.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this freelance position. Mention your experience in regulated environments and how you can contribute to our mission at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to include examples of how you've tackled complex network security challenges. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate strong incident leadership and troubleshooting skills!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Comgent
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like Palo Alto, FortiGate, and F5 BIG-IP. Brush up on your knowledge of firewall platforms and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with them.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled complex network security issues in the past. Think about specific incidents where you led troubleshooting efforts or incident responses, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Understand the Compliance Landscape
Since this role involves working in a regulated environment, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of compliance and audit documentation. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve supported compliance initiatives in previous roles.
✨Engage with the Company’s Vision
Research Comgent and their approach to network security. Show enthusiasm for their projects and values, especially around inclusivity and innovation. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
