Network Engineer

Role: Network Engineer (L2/L3 – Cisco & Palo Alto Focus)Location: Northfield, IL 60093 (Onsite)ContractIf you are interested, kindly share your updated resumeMandatory Skills: Cisco Switching & Routing (Catalyst & Nexus)Cisco ACI Spine & LeafPalo Alto and PanoramaJob Summary:The Network Engineer is responsible for the support of enterprise and data‑center network infrastructure, with a strong focus on Cisco switching and routing, Cisco ACI Spine‑Leaf architectures, and Palo Alto firewalls managed via Panorama. The role involves advanced troubleshooting, change implementation, and collaboration across infrastructure, security, and application teams to ensure secure, high‑availability network services. Key ResponsibilitiesCisco ACI (Spine & Leaf)Deploy, configure, and maintain Cisco ACI Spine‑Leaf fabricManage ACI components: APICTenants, VRFs, Bridge Domains, EPGsContracts, policies, and micro‑segmentationTroubleshoot ACI fabric, endpoints, and policy issuesSupport ACI integrations with firewalls, load balancers, and external L3 networks Network Security – Palo AltoConfigure and manage Palo Alto firewallsCentralized management using PanoramaImplement and maintain: Security policies and NAT rulesIPSec and SSL VPNsThreat prevention, URL filtering, and application controlTroubleshoot firewall and security traffic flowsCollaborate with security teams on incident response and compliance Operations & SupportAct as L2/L3 escalation point for network incidentsPerform deep‑level troubleshooting and root cause analysisSupport change management, maintenance windows, and on‑call rotationsEnsure high availability, performance, and resilience of network services Documentation & ImprovementMaintain network documentation, diagrams, and SOPsContribute to automation and standardization initiativesAssist with audits and operational best practicesMentor junior engineers as required Required Skills & ExperienceTechnical SkillsStrong hands‑on experience with: Cisco Catalyst & NexusCisco ACI Spine‑Leaf architecturePalo Alto firewalls and PanoramaSolid understanding of: TCP/IP, DNS, DHCPRouting and switching fundamentalsNetwork security principlesExperience with monitoring and troubleshooting tools Experience4 to 8+ years of network engineering experienceExperience supporting enterprise or data‑center environmentsProven experience handling complex network changes and incidents Certifications (Preferred)CCNP Enterprise / Data CenterCisco ACI certificationPCNSEITIL Foundation (nice to have) Soft SkillsStrong analytical and troubleshooting skillsClear communication and documentation abilityAbility to work under pressure during outagesTeam‑oriented with a proactive mindset