Freelance Core Network Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

RedHelm is redefining what it means to be a technology partner. We deliver industry-leading offensive and defensive cybersecurity alongside full-stack IT services that are integrated by design - protecting, powering, and accelerating our clients' success.
Our teams operate at the intersection of security and technology, combining deep technical expertise with a holistic, client-centered approach. By aligning security strategy, infrastructure, and operational excellence, we help organizations stay resilient in an increasingly complex threat landscape.
At RedHelm, we are building an environment where innovation, accountability, and collaboration drive meaningful outcomes, both for our clients and for the professionals who support them.
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Network Engineer to join our team in a projects-focused role, delivering network design, implementation, and support for our Managed Service Provider (MSP) clients. This role requires 7+ years of IT experience, including 5+ years of progressive network engineering experience with deep technical knowledge of Cisco, Cisco Meraki, and SonicWall, along with proven experience across Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Extreme Networks, and HP Aruba. The ideal candidate brings strong routing, switching, and Wi-Fi configuration skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize performance across SMB, cloud (Azure), and multi-tenant environments as they move between client projects. Prior experience in a Managed Service Provider (MSP) environment is highly desirable.
Role & Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and maintain enterprise-class network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, and security systems
• Configure and troubleshoot network equipment from Cisco, Cisco Meraki, SonicWall, Fortinet, Palo Alto Networks, Extreme Networks, and HP Aruba, as well as virtual network appliances in Microsoft Azure
• Implement routing, switching, and wireless solutions to ensure high availability, scalability, and security within the scope of a project
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver network solutions that align with business objectives
• Produce network documentation, diagrams, and configuration standards as directed within project scope
• Participate in capacity planning, risk assessments, and network improvement projects
• Stay current with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies

Soft Skill Requirements

• Strong documentation and communication skills, with the ability to translate technical work into clear project deliverables
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset when working across cross-functional teams
• Attention to detail in configuration standards and network documentation

Technical Skill Requirements

• 7+ years of IT experience, including 5+ years of progressive network engineering experience with deep technical knowledge of Cisco, Cisco Meraki, and SonicWall
• Advanced hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure networking, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Extreme Networks, and HP Aruba technologies
• Advanced skills in routing, switching, and Wi-Fi configuration
• Highly proficient to advanced understanding of TCP/IP, VLANs, VPNs, QoS, firewall policies, and network segmentation
• Highly proficient ability to troubleshoot complex Layer 2 and Layer 3 network issues

Preferred Qualifications.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Prior experience working in a Managed Service Provider (MSP) environment
• Relevant industry certifications such as CCNP, CCNA, Palo Alto Networks PCNSE, SonicWall SSNA, or Aruba ACMP
• Familiarity with network monitoring and management tools
• Experience with cloud networking and integrations (Azure, AWS, etc.)

Additional Information

• Heavy travel and on-site requirements
• May need to be available on-call for urgent project needs
• Must be able to successfully pass state and federal background checks, plus others that may be required by specific clients

Information Security Commitment
This role operates within a managed services environment and will have access to client systems, data, and infrastructure. All team members are expected to handle client and company information responsibly, follow established security and data privacy procedures, and support our commitment to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the systems we manage. Candidates should be comfortable working within a security-conscious culture where following documented processes and protecting client data are core expectations of the job.
Please Note, RedHelm is currently unable to support visa sponsorship for those living in the United States and working under an H1B visa.
Equal Opportunity Employer
RedHelm provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, RedHelm will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Why Join Us
This is an exciting time to join RedHelm as we continue to grow and innovate as a full-stack technology partner. Our integrated approach to offensive security, defensive operations, and IT services creates opportunities to work on complex challenges that directly impact the organizations we serve. As we expand our capabilities and footprint, our team members play a meaningful role in shaping what comes next.
We are equally committed to investing in our people. We believe in a culture where we care about individuals not just for their professional ambitions, but for their personal goals as well. We recognize that work is part of a larger purpose in each person's life, and that philosophy drives how we support growth, flexibility, and long-term development across our organization.
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support both career progression and personal wellbeing, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) program, paid time off, floating holidays, and paid holidays. More importantly, we provide an environment where you can build meaningful expertise, contribute to forward-thinking solutions, and grow alongside a company that is actively shaping its future.