Network and Security Operations Lead

Neptune Technology Group•Tallassee, GA

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled Network & Security Operations Lead to join our Enterprise IT Operations team as a technical leader. This is a key professional role responsible for designing, building, and operating sophisticated network and security infrastructure across our multi-location enterprise environment. The successful candidate will work independently on complex, mission-critical systems with minimal supervision, bringing deep technical expertise and strategic thinking to enhance our network capabilities, operationalize security requirements in partnership with our Security & Compliance function, and drive operational performance across both domains. This role operates as the primary IT Operations executor for security requirements and policies defined by Neptune's Security & Compliance team, ensuring those standards are consistently embedded across network and infrastructure operations. This role includes responsibility for leading and mentoring the Network & Security Operations team, driving technical excellence, and serving as a subject matter expert across both networking and security operations disciplines.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or international equivalent)
Minimum 5+ years of relevant professional experience in network engineering or related roles
Advanced knowledge of enterprise network architecture, design, and implementation
Strong proficiency with network equipment and systems (routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, WAN acceleration)
Demonstrated expertise in LAN, WAN, wireless, and VPN technologies
Working knowledge of security operations concepts including incident response, vulnerability management, and network security tooling (IDS/IPS, NAC, SIEM integration)
Experience managing or contributing to security infrastructure in a coordinated security governance model (where security strategy is owned by a dedicated Security or Compliance function)
Experience with network monitoring, performance testing, and capacity planning tools
Proven ability to work independently with wide latitude for judgment on complex network decisions
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities
Strong communication and collaboration skills with ability to engage vendors and cross-functional teams
Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to mentor and develop technical staff
Track record of building and maintaining high-performing technical teams
Ability to balance hands-on technical work with team management responsibilities
Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to fostering professional growth in team members

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
Current industry certifications (CCNP, CCIE, or equivalent)
Security certification such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM, or equivalent
Experience in manufacturing or multi-location enterprise environments
Knowledge of cloud network integration and hybrid infrastructure
Familiarity with network automation and infrastructure-as-code tools
Experience with Microsoft enterprise technologies and AWS cloud services
Experience operating in a shared security responsibility model alongside a dedicated Security or Compliance function
Familiarity with NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CIS Controls, or similar industry security frameworks
Experience in hybrid network/security operations environments (NOC/SOC overlap or similar)
Formal training or certification in team leadership or management practices
Prior experience leading or managing technical teams in enterprise environments

Responsibilities

Design, build, and configure new network infrastructure to support business growth and technological initiatives
Maintain and upgrade existing network systems including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless networks, and VPNs
Oversee capacity planning and scaling to ensure network infrastructure meets current and future organizational needs
Install and configure network equipment including routers, switches, servers, WAN accelerators, and load balancers
Manage and maintain security infrastructure including firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, network access control (NAC), and other network-layer security tooling in alignment with Security & Compliance requirements
Monitor, install patches, and execute upgrades with minimal disruption to business operations
Operationalize security policies and technical requirements defined by the Security & Compliance (S&C) team across all network domains
Maintain network-layer visibility and data feeds into SIEM and security monitoring platforms
Coordinate incident response activities at the network and perimeter layer in conjunction with S&C
Support vulnerability management execution — including patch scheduling, remediation verification, and documentation — as directed by S&C
Participate in security assessments, audits, and compliance reviews as the IT Operations representative
Test and monitor network connectivity, capacity, and functionality across all locations
Investigate network inefficiencies and implement enhancements to optimize overall network performance
Troubleshoot complex network issues as they arise, providing rapid resolution to minimize downtime
Serve as primary liaison with network vendors and third-party service providers
Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure seamless integration of network services
Serve as IT Operations' primary liaison to the Security & Compliance team, coordinating on vulnerability remediation timelines, security tool integrations, incident response at the network layer, and compliance audit support
Communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
Lead and develop a blended network and security operations team, providing technical guidance and professional development across both disciplines
Establish and enforce technical standards, best practices, and processes within the team
Conduct knowledge transfer and training on complex network systems, security operations practices, and emerging technologies
Develop team members across both network and security operations disciplines, including professionals transitioning from adjacent IT functions
Participate in hiring and onboarding of Network & Security Operations staff
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence within the team
Provide performance feedback and support team members' career growth and development