Our client is seeking a hands-on Cisco Certified Network Engineer to support short-term, high-priority network initiatives. This SME will be responsible for configuring, optimizing, and troubleshooting Cisco network products with a focus on secure and scalable infrastructure design.

The successful candidate will bring deep technical expertise and current Cisco certifications, with experience across Cisco ISE, Catalyst Center, Firepower, ASA, VPNs, and routing/switching. Bonus if they can support Palo Alto firewall environments as well.

Key Responsibilities:

• Configure, deploy, and support Cisco networking products including:
• Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)
• Cisco Catalyst Center (formerly DNA Center)
• Cisco ASA & Firepower appliances
• Cisco routing and switching (core/distribution/access)
• Cisco and site-to-site VPNs
• Perform hands-on troubleshooting, configuration changes, and optimization
• Support security policies and access controls related to Cisco platforms
• Integrate Cisco solutions into broader enterprise networking infrastructure
• Collaborate with internal network/security teams on incident resolution and change implementation
• Provide expert guidance and knowledge transfer to internal teams

Required Experience & Qualifications:

• Cisco Certified (CCNP or higher preferred)
• 5+ years of hands-on experience configuring and managing Cisco enterprise networking solutions
• Strong command of:
• Cisco ISE (NAC policies, profiling, posture assessment)
• Catalyst Center (automation, policy-based networking)
• ASA/Firepower (threat protection, ACLs, NAT, VPN)
• Experience with traditional routing/switching and VLAN management
• Bonus: Familiarity with Palo Alto firewalls
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Able to work independently and hit the ground running