Senior Security Architect - Mid-Atlantic region (Remote in MD, DC, VA, WV, PA, DE, NC, or NJ)

As a Senior Security Architect at GuidePoint Security, your responsibilities will include performing comprehensive presales security architecture consulting, conducting assessments of client environments, and developing detailed documentation that aligns with best practices. You'll collaborate with both sales and engineering teams to ensure project success, analyze advanced network security solutions, and provide engineering consulting services for planning and implementation.

The ideal candidate for the Senior Security Architect position at GuidePoint Security will have 3-5 years of experience in presales architecture, with at least 8 years of overall secure networking experience. Certifications like Palo Alto PCNSE, CISSP, and CCNP are desired. Familiarity with network security technologies such as next-gen firewalls and cloud security platforms is crucial to excel in this role.

GuidePoint Security requires expert-level knowledge in network security architecture, with at least four of the following areas prioritized: next-gen firewalls (especially Palo Alto), IDS/IPS solutions, cloud security, endpoint security, and more. A strong foundational understanding of routing/switching architectures is also vital to support clients effectively.

Yes, the Senior Security Architect position at GuidePoint Security is a remote role, but candidates must reside in the specified Mid-Atlantic states: MD, DC, VA, WV, PA, DE, NC, or NJ. Up to 25% travel may be required depending on client needs and project demands.

GuidePoint Security promotes a collaborative company culture where mentorship and support from knowledgeable colleagues are integral to the environment. Employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers within a rapidly growing and enjoyable workplace that prioritizes cybersecurity excellence.

To effectively assess and improve a client's security architecture, I begin with a thorough understanding of their existing systems and vulnerabilities. I conduct detailed evaluations and collaborate closely with stakeholders to develop tailored recommendations, ensuring alignment with best practices and industry standards.

My extensive experience with next-gen firewalls, particularly Palo Alto, allows me to implement solutions that significantly enhance network security through advanced threat detection and prevention. These firewalls provide integrated features that improve visibility and policy enforcement, enabling organizations to safeguard their critical assets efficiently.

During presales consulting, I follow a structured approach that includes assessing the client’s current security posture, identifying gaps, and leveraging data-driven insights. I prioritize communication with stakeholders to align security solutions with their specific business objectives and compliance requirements.

I stay informed about emerging threats and technologies by actively engaging with cybersecurity communities, participating in training programs, and subscribing to industry publications. Continuous learning is crucial to keeping a competitive edge in cybersecurity consulting.

In one challenging project, I encountered a complex security breach that disrupted critical operations. I coordinated a cross-functional team to identify the vulnerability, implement immediate remediation measures, and develop a long-term security improvement plan, ultimately restoring the client's trust and operational stability.

Collaboration with engineering teams is vital to addressing cybersecurity challenges effectively. It fosters innovation and ensures that security measures are seamlessly integrated into existing infrastructure, preventing gaps that attackers could exploit.

Balancing business needs with security requirements involves understanding the organization's priorities and risk tolerance. I focus on providing pragmatic solutions that align security with overarching business goals, thereby ensuring minimal disruption while enhancing overall cybersecurity posture.

Certifications such as Palo Alto PCNSE, CISSP, and CCNP Security are particularly valuable for a Senior Security Architect, as they not only validate technical expertise but also demonstrate commitment to maintaining industry standards and best practices in cybersecurity.

When educating a non-technical client about their cybersecurity posture, I simplify complex concepts into relatable language and use visuals to illustrate key points. Establishing a dialogue and answering their questions ensures they understand the importance of the measures being recommended.

I'm interested in working for GuidePoint Security because of its reputable commitment to cybersecurity excellence and its collaborative work culture. The company's rapid growth trajectory offers unique opportunities for professional development, and I'm excited to contribute to its mission of helping organizations mitigate risk.