Network Security Engineer (Secret Clearance)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Network Security Engineer to support Naval Intelligence Warfare Command in San Diego, CA. The customer is seeking an individual with expertise across red team operations and networking to support a Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation network by assessing the current state of services and infrastructure supporting the command.

Clearance: Secret required

Location: San Diego, CA (100% on-site) 

This job opens for applications on 3/13/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date   

Responsibilities of the Network Security Specialist:  

• Conduct penetration testing across diverse applications using tools such as Burp Suite.
• Perform proof‑of‑concept evaluations on emerging exploits to assess potential vulnerabilities within supported networks.
• Maintain and monitor signature‑based scanning tools to ensure continuous and reliable operation.
• Draft, review, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Proofs of Concept (POCs) to standardize processes, accelerate solution validation, and support audits.
• Administer, harden, and patch Windows and Linux servers, workstations, and network appliances in production and lab environments.
• Support network services (DNS, DHCP, NTP, VPN) and assist with routine configuration/maintenance of switches and routers.
• Automate common Linux tasks using Bash and Python; write reusable scripts for monitoring, backups, and configuration checks.
• Conduct vulnerability discovery, triage, and remediation tracking across servers, workstations, applications, and network devices.
• Perform authenticated/unauthenticated web application assessments using Burp Suite (Proxy, Repeater, Intruder, Scanner).
• Analyze network traffic flow across OSI layers; identify misconfigurations, bottlenecks, and security gaps.
• Document network diagrams, data flows, and trust boundaries; propose segmentation and ACL improvements.

Qualifications of the Network Security Specialist:

• Bachelors degree in related discipline and 3+ years of related experience
• Active Secret clearance required  
• One of the following certifications(CySA+, Sec+CE, GSEC, GIAC) AND MCSA, Linux+ or equivalent environment certification
• Experience administering Linux/Windows servers
• Experience as a network administrator, familiar with OSI network model and traffic flow
• Scripting experience using PowerShell, Bash, Python
• Experience with virtual machines (vSphere, Virtual Box, KVM)
• Knowledge of Burp Suite security tools and Kali Linux tools (nMap, TCPDump, Wireshark)

Compensation for the Network Security Specialist:

• Total compensation based on experience level - $110,000-$120,000+ **based on degree and total years of experience**
• Full Benefits: PTO/Holidays, Cigna Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401k with ADP
• Long-term program
• Contract stability and mobility through Zachary Piper Solutions

#LI-MK1 #LI-Onsite

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