Sensor Engineer

The Sensor Engineer at FWG Solutions is tasked with configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting the IDS/IPS sensor fleet. Key responsibilities include system installation, ensuring software patches, and monitoring system alerts to identify suspicious network activity. The role also includes deploying to various military network sites and collaborating with teams to resolve network issues, making it an essential position in enhancing security operations.

To qualify for the Sensor Engineer role at FWG Solutions, candidates must have at least a high school diploma, with a bachelor's degree in a related field preferred. Additionally, candidates need an active TS/SCI Security Clearance and one of several industry-recognized certifications, such as CCNA Security or Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience, especially in a DoD environment.

Essential skills for a Sensor Engineer at FWG Solutions include strong problem-solving abilities, excellent written and verbal communication skills, superior organizational skills, and a meticulous attention to detail. Proficiency with operating systems like UNIX and Microsoft, along with a thorough understanding of networking concepts and protocols, is also crucial to excel in this role.

FWG Solutions requires prospective Sensor Engineers to have a minimum of five years of relevant experience. This experience should ideally cover areas such as IP addressing, domains, network components, and knowledge of TCP/UDP protocols. A background in DoD operations is preferred, emphasizing practical experience with network security tools and technologies.

At FWG Solutions, a Sensor Engineer can expect various opportunities for professional growth. As you gain practical experience with advanced sensor technologies and complete additional certifications, you may advance to higher roles in cybersecurity or related fields. Moreover, the collaborative environment provides the chance to work alongside experienced professionals, fostering continuous learning and career advancement.

When troubleshooting IDS/IPS sensors, I start by reviewing logs for any error messages and isolate the problematic area. After identifying potential issues, I systematically check configurations and network connectivity to ensure everything is properly set up. I also consult with relevant documentation and vendors if necessary to resolve any complex issues efficiently.

In my previous roles, I have extensive experience working with IDS/IPS technologies like Fidelis and ArcSight. I have been responsible for configuring these systems, performing maintenance, and integrating them into operational networks to enhance security and performance. Hands-on experience allowed me to understand their behavior in real-time network environments.

System upgrades and patches are critical for maintaining IDS/IPS sensors as they ensure the software remains secure against new threats. By regularly updating systems, we can fix vulnerabilities, improve performance, and enhance the overall effectiveness of security protocols, which is essential for protecting network integrity.

My understanding of network protocols such as TCP/UDP, FTP, and HTTP is fundamental to my role as a Sensor Engineer. This knowledge helps me configure and manage network activities better, allowing me to analyze traffic patterns effectively and identify anomalies indicative of security breaches.

I ensure my documentation for maintenance and operational procedures is clear, organized, and easily accessible. This includes creating checklists for routine tasks, logging changes made to the system, and maintaining up-to-date records of configurations and procedures, which all contribute to a cohesive team environment.

I typically prefer utilizing tools such as ArcSight and other monitoring systems like SIEM solutions that provide comprehensive visibility over the entire network. These tools allow for real-time analysis, reporting of network activity, and alerting on suspicious behavior, making my response to potential threats more efficient.

In a previous position, I encountered a persistent network connectivity issue that affected sensor performance. By conducting thorough diagnostics and engaging in collaborative troubleshooting with team members, we identified a misconfigured router. After recalibrating the settings, the network was stabilized, and IDS sensors resumed optimal functionality.

When deploying sensors to a new location, I start by conducting a site survey to understand the network architecture. Following this, I plan the deployment strategy, ensuring that all required equipment is configured correctly. Finally, I test the sensors in the new environment to confirm they're capturing and reporting activity as intended.

I stay updated with emerging IDS/IPS technologies by regularly attending industry conferences, enrolling in professional development courses, and subscribing to relevant cybersecurity publications. Networking with peers and participating in online forums also provides valuable insights into the latest advancements and best practices.

Upon detecting a security incident, my first strategy is to assess the situation quickly to determine the nature and severity of the threat. I then coordinate with the appropriate teams to implement incident response protocols, which may involve isolating affected networks, collecting forensic evidence, and initiating recovery procedures to restore normal operations.