Senior Network Engineer

Role: Senior Network Engineer

Type: Freelance

Start: 3rd Nov (or sooner)

Duration: till end of June 2026

Hours: 32-40 p/w

Work from home: 3 days home, 2 days office

Hourly rate: up to 85 EURO, depending on skills and experience

Are you a seasoned Network Engineer ready for a high-impact, global project? An exciting freelance opportunity has opened up to play a crucial role in a major network transformation. This is your chance to apply your expertise to a large-scale deployment of next-generation network technology, working with a dynamic international team.

Company description

This is a global organization with a significant footprint in logistics, operating a vast network of port offices, terminals, and warehouses. With key operational hubs in locations like Rotterdam and Asia, the company is committed to leveraging technology to maintain its leading position in the industry.

What you'll be doing

You will join a geographically dispersed network team of 6 professionals (4 based in the Netherlands, 2 in Asia). As a Senior Network Engineer based in the Netherlands, you will be a key contributor to a critical, ongoing project to deploy Zscaler products worldwide. Your primary focus will be on replacing the existing SD-WAN solution with new physical appliances across numerous sites, providing essential hands-on expertise to ensure the project's success until its completion in mid-2026.

What your day will be like

• Actively participate in the deployment of Zscaler branch connectors, replacing the current Aryaka SD-WAN solution.
• Provide hands-on configuration and remote support for the installation of physical network appliances.
• Collaborate closely with the 4-person network team based in the Rotterdam office.
• Manage and configure FortiGate firewalls as part of the network infrastructure.
• Work within complex enterprise and data center network environments.
• Liaise with various stakeholders across different sites, including port offices, terminals, and warehouses.
• Contribute to the design and implementation phases of the global network project.

Personal skills

The ideal candidate is a senior, hands-on Network Engineer with a proven track record in large enterprise environments. You are a proactive and self-sufficient professional who thrives on solving complex technical challenges. Strong collaborative skills are essential, as you will be working closely with the local team in Rotterdam. As a freelancer, your ability to quickly integrate into the team and make an immediate impact is highly valued.

Requirements for this role

• Senior-level experience as a Network Engineer.
• Demonstrated experience with large-scale enterprise and data center networks.
• Knowledge of Fortinet (FortiGate) firewalls is highly preferable.
• Experience with Zscaler technologies is considered a significant advantage.
• Experience with Azure networking is a plus.
• While certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP) are a nice-to-have, extensive practical experience is prioritized.
• Must be located in the Netherlands and able to commute to the Rotterdam office.