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

GuidePoint Security provides trusted cybersecurity expertise, solutions and services that help organizations make better decisions and minimize risk. By taking a three-tiered, holistic approach for evaluating security posture and ecosystems, GuidePoint enables some of the nation’s top organizations, such as Fortune 500 companies and U.S. government agencies, to identify threats, optimize resources and integrate best-fit solutions that mitigate risk. 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. Key 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. Embraces emerging technologies, including AI tools, to work smarter, solve problems, and drive better business outcomes Required Qualifications 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 ce…