Network Patch Specialist

Network Patch Specialist

Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Network Patch Specialist to join our offshore MSP team. This role is critical in maintaining the security and stability of our clients’ network infrastructures by ensuring timely and effective patching of network devices, including Fortinet, Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, Meraki and Palo Alto firewalls. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with firewall platforms, strong change management discipline, and a proactive approach to vulnerability remediation.

The ideal candidate will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing client network environments by executing structured, repeatable patching processes aligned with IT Service Management (ITSM) best practices. This role involves close collaboration with internal teams, external stakeholders, and technology vendors to ensure consistent service delivery and high levels of client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform scheduled and ad-hoc patching of network devices across multiple customer environments.


• Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of patches, including identification, deployment, and verification across multiple customer environments.


• Continuously monitor vendor releases and security advisories to identify relevant patches and assess risk levels (prioritization) based on severity, impact and compliance requirements.


• Ensure compliance with customer-specific patching policies and change management procedures.


• Collaborate with onshore and offshore teams to coordinate patch windows and minimize service disruption.


• Validate patch success and perform post-patch health checks on network appliances.


• Maintain accurate documentation of patch activities, including change tickets, rollback plans, and patch status reports.


• Generate regular reports for internal audits and regulatory compliance.


• Troubleshoot patch-related issues and escalate to senior engineers when necessary.


• Actively contribute to ongoing improvement efforts aimed at refining and optimizing patch management processes.


• Communicates patching plans, schedules, and impacts to relevant stakeholders, including IT operations, security, and business units.


• Review and refine patch management strategies regularly to adapt to evolving technologies, threats, and business needs.


• Collaborate with security teams to address vulnerabilities identified through scans or threat intelligence, ensuring timely patching of affected systems.

Required Skills & Experience

• 3+ years of experience in network administration or security operations, preferably in an MSP environment.


• Hands-on experience with Fortinet FortiGate, Juniper, Meraki, Aruba, Cisco ASA/Firepower, and Palo Alto Networks firewalls.


• Familiarity with patch management tools and scripting for automation (e.g., Ansible, Python, Bash or vendor-specific tools) would be an asset.


• Strong understanding of network protocols, firewall policies, and VPN configurations.


• Experience with ITIL-based change management processes.


• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently in a remote team environment.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ITSM platforms (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira).


• Solid understanding of business, technology and ITIL processes.


• Experience with security platforms (e.g., Cisco ASA, Palo Alto, WatchGuard) would be an asset.


• Knowledge of scripting or automation (e.g., Python, PowerShell) is a bonus.


• Proven track record of escalation management experience.


• Strong understanding of ITSM frameworks (e.g., ITIL) and operational best practices.


• Proven experience in process development and operational maturity.


• Excellent Critical Thinking and Emotional Intelligence skills.


• Certifications in Fortinet NSE 4/5/6/7 would be an asset.


• CCNA min, CCNP, Network + Security +, JNCIA, JNCIS, AWS certification or Azure Network Engineer Associate.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible offshore hours with availability during customer maintenance windows (including evenings/weekends as needed).


• Participation in an on-call rotation for emergency patching or incident response.