Assaad Matar
Network And Security Engineer
Taunton,MA
Summary
Experienced Network and Security Engineer with over 18 years of expertise in designing, securing, and optimizing network infrastructures. Skilled in configuring and maintaining routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and security protocols. Proven track record in implementing robust security solutions, ensuring network compliance, and mitigating risks through proactive monitoring and threat detection. Adept at troubleshooting, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring reliable and secure network operations.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
3
3
Languages
Work History
Network and Security Engineer
Middle East Airlines
Beirut, Lebanon
09.2006 - 12.2024
- Designed, deployed, and managed a robust and scalable enterprise network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, and wireless networks.
- Configured and maintained network hardware such as routers (cisco), switches (Cisco), and firewalls (Palo alto, Cisco, FortiGate).
- Monitored network performance, identified bottlenecks, and implemented solutions to optimize network efficiency.
- Ensured high availability and reliability of network services by implementing failover mechanisms and redundancy.
- Performed regular upgrades and patch management to ensure the latest technology and security protocols were implemented.
- Provided Level 2 and Level 3 support for network-related issues, troubleshooting complex problems to resolution.
- Implemented and managed enterprise-level security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and endpoint protection.
- Conducted regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate security risks.
- Developed and enforced security policies and procedures to protect the organization’s assets.
- Monitored and analyzed security alerts, responding to potential incidents promptly.
- Configured and maintained Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to secure remote access for employees and contractors.
- Ensured compliance with industry standards, including GDPR, PCI DSS, and aviation security requirements.
System Administrator
Middle East Airlines
Beirut, Lebanon
06.2004 - 03.2005
- Set up the system (e.g., email, database, network, and backup).
- Active Directory – Configuration and Management of Policies
- File and Print Server Management and Migrations on Microsoft Windows Servers
- Managed approximately 30 incoming calls, emails and faxes per day from users.
IT Help Desk Agent
Ministry of Defense
Beirut, Lebanon
11.2002 - 08.2003
- Responded to end-user support requests and patiently guided people through basic troubleshooting tasks.
- Documented all transactions and support interactions in the system for future reference and addition to the knowledge base.
- Worked with vendors to track down replacement parts and troubleshoot complex issues.
Education
Bachelor of Engineering - Computer Engineering
Lebanese American University
Beirut, Lebanon 07.1997 - 06.2002
Skills
Networking Protocols: TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, OSPF, etc
Network Hardware: Routers, switches, firewalls (eg, Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet))
Network Configuration: VLANs, VPN, SD-WAN, VoIP
Network Monitoring and Troubleshooting: Wireshark, SolarWinds, Cisco Prime
Vulnerability assessment
Endpoint protection
Security awareness training
Patch management
Disaster recovery planning
IP addressing and subnetting
Problem-solving, Time management, Team collaboration
Certification
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - Cisco Systems.
Timeline
Network and Security Engineer
Middle East Airlines
09.2006 - 12.2024
System Administrator
Middle East Airlines
06.2004 - 03.2005
IT Help Desk Agent
Ministry of Defense
11.2002 - 08.2003
Bachelor of Engineering - Computer Engineering
Lebanese American University
07.1997 - 06.2002