Senior Network Engineer / Architect (Contract)

Role Overview AceStack is looking for a skilled Senior Network Engineer or Architect for a contract engagement based onsite in Chennai. This role demands a hands-on professional with deep expertise in enterprise networking, security operations, and SD-WAN technologies. The ideal candidate will serve as a technical subject matter expert, driving both operational excellence and strategic network transformation. Key Responsibilities - Provide L3/L4 support for complex network and security incidents across LAN, WAN, and wireless environments - Lead major incident management (MIM), conduct Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and implement preventive measures - Design and implement enterprise network architectures including SD-WAN solutions using Fortinet and Meraki platforms - Configure high availability, redundancy, and failover mechanisms to ensure business continuity - Manage the complete firewall rule lifecycle including IPS/IDS policies, NAT rules, and threat protection configurations - Configure and troubleshoot Site-to-Site IPSec VPN and Remote Access SSL VPN across global locations - Support Cisco and Meraki wireless solutions including RF tuning and performance optimisation - Handle change management activities including CAB submissions and risk assessments - Maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and network architecture diagrams in line with ITIL standards - Mentor L1/L2 engineers and act as the technical escalation point for network and security issues Required Qualifications - Proven experience with Fortinet technologies including FortiGate, FortiManager, FortiAnalyzer, FortiSwitch, and FortiAP - Strong hands-on expertise with Cisco switching and routing including VLAN, STP, EtherChannel, OSPF, BGP, and QoS - Experience with Cisco WLC, Meraki MX, MS, and MR platforms including Dashboard management and AutoVPN - Solid understanding of SD-WAN architecture, firewall and security policy design, and network performance optimisation - Familiarity with ITIL processes and enterprise change governance frameworks - Preferred certifications include Fortinet NSE 5/6/7, Cisco CCNP or CCIE, and Meraki CMNA or CMNO Why Join Us This is an excellent opportunity for a senior networking professional to take on a high-impact contract role with AceStack, working on enterprise-grade infrastructure in a fast-paced environment. You will collaborate with architects, vendors, and key stakeholders while shaping the direction of network modernisation initiatives.

- L3/L4 network and security incident support experience - Expertise in Fortinet FortiGate, FortiManager, FortiAnalyzer, FortiSwitch, and FortiAP - Cisco L2/L3 switching and routing including OSPF, BGP, HSRP, and VRRP - SD-WAN design and deployment using Fortinet or Meraki - Firewall rule lifecycle management including IPS/IDS, NAT, and VPN configuration - Site-to-Site IPSec VPN and Remote Access SSL VPN troubleshooting - Meraki MX, MS, and MR platform management - Wireless optimisation and RF tuning with Cisco WLC or Meraki MR - ITIL process adherence and change management (CAB) - Experience mentoring junior network engineers - Preferred: Fortinet NSE 5/6/7, Cisco CCNP/CCIE, or Meraki CMNA/CMNO certification