Okay, I've searched for full-time Network and Firewall Administrator roles in Boston requiring 5+ years of experience, expertise in Cisco ASA and Fortinet firewalls, strong network security protocol knowledge, and hybrid or onsite work options. I have found 87 positions matching these criteria for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Network and Firewall Administrator role at NFPA is fundamentally tasked with safeguarding and optimizing the association's network infrastructure to ensure reliable, secure connectivity that supports the organization's vital safety mission. Beyond routine configuration and maintenance, this role demands proactive vigilance against cybersecurity threats by managing firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and access controls in a hybrid cloud and on-premises environment. The responsibility extends to managing complex network technologies such as VLANs, VPNs, QoS, and SD-WAN in a way that supports seamless operations and business continuity. Candidates must possess deep technical expertise with networking protocols and security devices, alongside strong troubleshooting skills to quickly resolve connectivity or security incidents. Given the hybrid nature of the role, on-site presence is critical for hands-on management and collaboration, reflecting the organization's need for practical, immediate operational support. Success in this role hinges on the candidate's ability to balance routine network stability with dynamic security challenges, communicate effectively across IT teams, and align infrastructure management with NFPA's broader mission of protecting lives and property. Autonomy and sound judgment are key, as the role includes responding to after-hours alerts and performing root cause analysis to prevent repeated outages or breaches.

Company Analysis:

NFPA occupies a unique niche as a mission-driven nonprofit with deep roots and global influence in fire, electrical, and safety standards. Their longstanding reputation and focus on safety place them at the intersection of public welfare, regulatory compliance, and technology evolution. As the organization transitions to a more digital and global operation, there is a clear strategic emphasis on advancing their technical capabilities to expand reach and impact. The culture likely prioritizes mission alignment, reliability, collaboration, and continuous improvement in the face of emerging security challenges, making adaptability and passion for the cause important traits for any employee. Being part of a smaller, focused IT team within such an organization offers a high-visibility role where technical decisions have real-world impact on safety. The role likely interacts closely with various departments given the cross-functional nature of maintaining secure communications and data integrity. The hybrid work model and expectation for responsiveness also suggest a culture valuing dedication and flexibility. Candidates should be prepared to contribute not just technically but as proactive stewards of an infrastructure that safeguards sensitive knowledge and supports first responders and stakeholders worldwide.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex network outage under pressure. How did you prioritize and resolve the issue?
• Behavioral: Describe an experience where you implemented a firewall or network security policy that significantly improved an organization's security posture.
• Behavioral: Can you share how you've managed cross-team collaboration when addressing recurring network security incidents?
• Behavioral: Give an example of when you had to respond to an after-hours network or security alert. How did you handle the situation?
• Technical: How would you approach configuring VLANs and QoS to optimize network performance while ensuring security in a hybrid cloud environment?
• Technical: Explain your experience working with Cisco ASA or Fortinet firewalls. What are critical considerations in configuring firewall rules for a nonprofit organization like NFPA?
• Technical: What steps do you take to conduct a firewall audit and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations?
• Technical: How do you stay current with emerging network security threats, and how have you recently applied this knowledge to protect your network?
• Situational: Imagine one of the organization’s VPN users reports they cannot establish remote access late at night. How would you investigate and resolve this issue promptly?
• Situational: The network experiences intermittent slowdowns and the source is unclear. How would you perform root cause analysis and mitigate the bottleneck?
• Situational: You detect suspicious activity in firewall logs indicating possible breach attempts. How do you respond, document, and communicate this to the wider IT team and management?
• Company Fit: What attracts you to the National Fire Protection Association's mission, and how do you see your role supporting it?
• Company Fit: NFPA is transitioning to a more digital and global footprint. How do you envision contributing to this transformation from a network security standpoint?
• Company Fit: Given NFPA’s hybrid work environment and mission-driven culture, how do you stay motivated and effective when handling urgent after-hours alerts or onsite presence requirements?
• Questions for Interviewer: How does the IT team currently measure and prioritize network security risks, and what tools or processes are in place to support this?
• Questions for Interviewer: Can you describe the typical collaboration between the Network and Firewall Administrator and other departments within NFPA?
• Questions for Interviewer: What are the biggest network or security challenges NFPA anticipates in the next 12 months, and how would this role be pivotal in addressing them?