Checkpoint Specialist

The Checkpoint Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining, and optimizing Check Point firewall solutions to ensure the security, availability, and performance of an organization's network infrastructure. This role involves configuring, troubleshooting, and monitoring firewall systems, enforcing security policies, and collaborating with security teams to protect against threats and vulnerabilities. The Checkpoint Specialist will also provide expertise in network security technologies and ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

Firewall Management & Configuration:

• Configure, manage, and maintain Check Point firewalls, VPNs, and security gateways.
• Implement and enforce security policies to protect network traffic, users, and assets.
• Set up and manage access control lists (ACLs), NAT rules, and intrusion prevention/detection systems (IPS/IDS).

Monitoring & Troubleshooting:

• Monitor firewall performance and network security traffic for potential threats or anomalies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve firewall-related issues to ensure uptime and security.
• Perform routine system checks, updates, and patches to maintain firewall health.

Incident Response & Security Analysis:

• Respond to security incidents, working closely with security operations teams to mitigate risks.
• Analyze security logs, reports, and alerts to identify and address security risks and vulnerabilities.
• Perform root cause analysis and recommend solutions to enhance security posture.

Compliance & Reporting:

• Ensure firewall configurations are compliant with internal security policies and industry standards (e.g., PCI-DSS, GDPR, ISO 27001).
• Generate and review reports on firewall activity, including blocked threats, performance metrics, and policy violations.

Security Audits & Assessments:

• Assist in conducting regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify weaknesses in the firewall and network infrastructure.
• Recommend and implement improvements based on audit findings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience with Check Point firewall solutions (installation, configuration, and management).
• Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) or Check Point Certified Security Expert (CCSE) certification preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, VPNs, IPS, IDS, and security architecture.
• Strong understanding of network security best practices, firewall rules, access controls, and NAT configurations.
• Proficiency in security monitoring tools and technologies.
• Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other security technologies such as Palo Alto, Cisco ASA, or Fortinet.
• Familiarity with cloud security solutions (e.g., Check Point CloudGuard, AWS, Azure).
• Experience with scripting and automation (e.g., Python, Bash) to streamline firewall management tasks.