(1643) Senior Network Specialist - (F5 & CISCO FTD) - BSTD

Brief description

The main purpose of this position is to lead and drive the end-to-end implementation of all network security solutions at the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and to provide technical expertise and recommendations.

Detailed description

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following key performance areas:

• Research and recommend emerging and fit-for-purpose network security solutions, and provide technical input into the design.


• Lead and drive the implementation (the design, configuration, testing and deployment) of network security solutions.


• Review technical standards, procedures, user guides, standard operating procedures, instructional documents and other material relating to network security solutions.


• Provide expert input on network security solutions and optimisation.


• Plan and manage the technology life cycle of all network and security products.


• Collaborate and engage with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the functionality of the deployed network security solutions and technologies.


• Identify, address and remediate any network vulnerabilities identified by auditors and governance-related assessments.


• Stay abreast of new developments in network security solutions and technologies.


• Provide network expertise in information and communication technology (ICT) network security projects, and participate in other SARB Group projects to contribute towards business objectives.


• Take responsibility for network security deployment for disaster recovery and resource allocation to ensure optimal performance, continuity and scalability.


• Provide third-level (escalation) support services on all network solutions and services to ensure continued availability and performance of the technologies.


• Troubleshoot and perform root-cause analysis related to network security solutions and services.


• Implement and maintain the governance and security model for the network as developed by the Cyber and Information Security Unit.


• Develop a network and security matrix for measuring network performance, health and usage, and provide associated statistics and reports.

Job requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must be in possession of:

• the minimum of an Honours degree (NQF 8) in Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science, or an equivalent qualification;


• industry certifications;


• a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNP); and


• the minimum of 8–10 years’ experience in network security solutions, with a strong track record of designing and implementing network security solutions in enterprise organisations.

The following would be an added advantage:

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Security


• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP);


• ITIL v3/4 and COBIT 2019; and


• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification.

Additional requirements include:

• industry, organisational and business awareness and knowledge; 


• quality assurance knowledge and skills;


• excellent technical knowledge of infrastructure services; 


• continuous improvement of infrastructure services; 


• comprehensive hands-on infrastructure services troubleshooting experience; 


• continued learning and/or professional development; 


• the ability to read and understand technical manuals, procedural documentation and (OEM) guides; 


• liaison with external service providers for the purposes of product and technology reviews, coordinating vendor presentations where relevant; 


• understanding the department’s goals and objectives; 


• managing complexity and ambiguity;


• effective communication;


• impact and influence;


• conceptual thinking;


• innovation and creative thinking;


• building and managing relationships;


• strategic thinking;


• a customer focus;


• experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment;


• the ability to prioritise and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment;


• judgement and decision-making skills;


• analysis and problem-solving skills;


• resilience and adaptation;


• a service and stakeholder focus; and


• the ability to function independently (as a self-starter).

In line with the SARB’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups. People with disabilities are welcome to apply.

The SARB offers remuneration and benefits commensurate with the level of the position and in line with the market. The level at which the successful applicant will be appointed will depend on his/her competence and experience.