Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Ernest Okonofua

Houston,Texas

Summary

Diligent Network Security Engineer with strong foundation in network security protocols and risk mitigation strategies. Demonstrated success in implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive data across complex infrastructures. Proven ability to analyze and resolve security breaches while continuously optimizing system performance.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Network Security Engineer

Oceaneering
08.2022 - Current
  • Manage the migration of firewall infrastructure from Cisco ASA and Firepower to Fortinet FortiGate, enhancing security and optimizing network performance
  • Oversee firmware upgrades for Fortinet devices, ensuring they remain updated with the latest security patches and feature enhancements
  • Lead the integration of acquired companies into existing network infrastructure, aligning their systems with corporate security policies
  • Configure and deploy Fortinet equipment for new site provisioning, ensuring secure and reliable network connectivity
  • Manage Forti Analyzer and Forti Manager platforms, optimizing network performance and streamlining security management processes
  • Implement advanced threat protection mechanisms, conduct security audits, and configure VPN solutions to safeguard and enhance network infrastructure

Senior Network Security Engineer

HEB
06.2020 - 08.2022
  • Built and implemented Site-to-Site VPN tunnels, configured and deployed FortiGate Firewalls (FG-2000E, FG-2601F, 601E, 201E), and managed Fortinet and Palo Alto VMs on Azure and Oracle Cloud
  • Administered Checkpoint Firewalls (4400, 12400, 12600, 21400, 21600) and Checkpoint Smart Manager (Smart-1 210) for centralized management and daily operations
  • Redesigned and implemented resilient SD-WAN and WAN failover networks, reducing network outages from 45% to less than 3% across 20 remote sites
  • Enhanced network security by implementing IDS/IPS solutions, analyzing security incidents, and redesigning remote access SSLVPN with MFA using FortiGate 200F in a high-availability setup

Network Engineer

FOXCONN
06.2018 - 06.2020
  • Configured and installed network devices and services, including routers, switches, VPNs, and VLANs, with HSRP, VTP, and EIGRP implementations
  • Administered firewalls, managed Cisco ISE for Network Access Control, and maintained next-generation firewall security to block threats
  • Provided Level 2/3 support for global LAN/WAN infrastructure, troubleshooting complex network issues, and performing daily maintenance
  • Collaborated with vendors and network services teams to integrate new technologies and ensure seamless network operations
  • Developed disaster recovery plans, executed system backups, and participated in network planning and technical discussions with architects

Education

Bachelor of Science - Civil Engineering

AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERESITY
06.2007

Skills

  • DDoS Mitigation
  • Wireless Security
  • Network Forensics
  • Zero Trust Security
  • Cloud Security
  • Security Automation
  • Incident Response
  • Network Segmentation
  • Policy Management
  • Secure Network Design
  • Network security design
  • Access control management
  • Endpoint protection
  • Application security
  • Incident logging oversight
  • Network security management

Certification

  • CCNP Route and Switch
  • NSE 4 Network Security Professional
  • AZ700 Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions

Timeline

Network Security Engineer

Oceaneering
08.2022 - Current

Senior Network Security Engineer

HEB
06.2020 - 08.2022

Network Engineer

FOXCONN
06.2018 - 06.2020
  • CCNP Route and Switch
  • NSE 4 Network Security Professional
  • AZ700 Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions

Bachelor of Science - Civil Engineering

AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERESITY
Ernest Okonofua