Security Architect - Network and Data Security (Presales) - Northeast region

About the Role

We are seeking a technically sharp and customer-facing Security Architect (Presales) to join our Network & Data Security practice in the Northeast region. This individual will act as the primary technical resource supporting the sales cycle — partnering with Account Executives to understand customer environments, design solutions, and demonstrate value across our network and data security portfolio.

NOTE: This role requires a candidate who lives in and can travel throughout the Northeast region, supporting customer meetings, workshops, and conferences. When not traveling, this is a work-from-home position.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead technical resource in the sales cycle for network and data security opportunities, partnering closely with Account Executives to qualify, scope, and win business.
• Conduct discovery sessions with prospective and existing customers to understand current network architecture, security posture, and business drivers.
• Design and present tailored network and data security solutions, including architecture diagrams, technical proposals, and solution recommendations.
• Deliver compelling product demonstrations, proof-of-concepts (POCs), and technical workshops, both virtually and on-site.
• Respond to RFPs/RFIs with accurate technical content and solution positioning.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customer technical stakeholders (network engineers, security architects, CISOs, IT directors).
• Collaborate with internal teams — product management, engineering, marketing, and post-sales/delivery — to relay customer feedback and ensure smooth handoff after the sale.
• Stay current on network and data security trends, competitive landscape, and emerging threats to maintain credibility as a trusted advisor.
• Represent the company at regional industry conferences, trade shows, and customer events.
• Support internal enablement efforts, including training sales teams on technical positioning and messaging.
• Embrace emerging technologies, including AI tools, to work smarter, solve problems, and drive better business outcomes.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in network and data security engineering, architecture, or a related technical role.
• Strong working knowledge of network and data security technologies, such as:
  • Next-Gen Firewalls (NGFW)
  • SD-WAN / SASE
  • Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
  • IDS/IPS
  • VPN and remote access solutions
  • Network segmentation and micro-segmentation
  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
  • Data classification and governance
  • Cloud data security (CASB, DSPM)
• Excellent presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for both technical and executive audiences.
• Must reside in the Northeast region (e.g., NY, NJ, CT, MA, PA, or surrounding states) and be willing to travel regionally as needed (estimated 30–50%, primarily day trips and occasional overnight stays).
• Self-motivated and comfortable working in a home-office/remote setup between travel engagements.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior presales, sales engineering, or solutions engineering experience is highly preferred.
• Previous experience working at a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) is a significant plus — candidates with a background in multi-vendor solution selling and integration will stand out.
• Industry certifications such as CISSP, CCNP Security, PCNSE, NSE (Fortinet), or equivalent vendor certifications.
• Experience responding to formal RFP/RFI processes.
• Familiarity with cloud security concepts and hybrid network architectures.

Benefits

• Remote workforce primarily (U.S. based only, some travel may be required for certain positions, working on-site may be required for Federal positions).
• Group Medical Insurance options:
  • Zero Deductible PPO Plan (GuidePoint pays 90% of the premium for employees and 70% for family plans (spouse/children/family)).
  • High Deductible Health Plan with HSA (GuidePoint pays 100% of the employees premiums and 75% for family plans (spouse/children/family)). If you choose the High Deductible / HSA plan, GPS will contribute in 4 equal quarterly installments: ($850 per EE annually / $1750 per family annually (includes spouse/children/family options)).
• Group Dental Insurance: GuidePoint pays 100% of the premium for employees and 75% of family plans.
• 12 corporate holidays and a Flexible Time Off (FTO) program.
• Healthy mobile phone and home internet allowance.
• Eligibility for retirement plan after 2 months at open enrollment.
• Pet Benefit Option.