Zscaler Subject Matter Expert

Description :

Role Overview :

The Zscaler SME is responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and optimizing secure Internet and private application access solutions using the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform. The role demands deep expertise in Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA), Zscaler Private Access (ZPA), and Zscaler Digital Experience (ZDX). The SME will serve as the primary technical authority on all Zscaler-related matters and act as a bridge between network, security, and cloud teams.

Key Responsibilities :

Design & Architecture :

- Design secure network and application access architectures leveraging ZIA, ZPA, and ZDX.

- Develop Zscaler integration strategies with identity providers (Azure AD, Okta, Ping), MDM/UEM tools (Intune, JAMF), and SIEM/SOAR platforms.

- Define Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Secure Web Gateway (SWG) architectures aligned with business security goals.

- Create HLDs/LLDs, technical documentation, and solution blueprints.

Implementation & Deployment :

- Lead deployment and configuration of ZIA and ZPA across global environments.

- Configure authentication mechanisms, user/group policies, and traffic forwarding methods (PAC files, GRE tunnels, Z-Tunnels).

- Integrate Zscaler with firewalls, VPNs, proxies, and cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).

- Conduct pilot implementations, proof-of-concepts (POCs), and production rollouts.

Operations & Support :

- Monitor Zscaler platform health, performance, and policy compliance.

- Troubleshoot user access, latency, and traffic routing issues.

- Coordinate with Zscaler TAC for escalations and incident resolutions.

- Perform regular policy reviews, log analysis, and threat detection using Zscaler dashboards and reports.

Optimization & Governance :

- Continuously fine-tune policies for optimal security and performance.

- Develop automation scripts (Python, PowerShell, API calls) for Zscaler configuration management and reporting.

- Provide recommendations on policy best practices, SSL inspection, DLP, and CASB configurations.

- Establish governance processes for policy changes, incident handling, and change control.

Training & Collaboration :

- Conduct knowledge-transfer sessions for IT and security operations teams.

- Collaborate with network, SOC, and identity teams to ensure end-to-end visibility and security posture alignment.

- Stay current on Zscaler updates, new features, and industry trends.

Required Skills & Qualifications :

Technical Expertise :

- Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) - deep understanding of SWG, DLP, CASB, SSL inspection, sandboxing, and threat prevention.

- Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) - strong knowledge of ZTNA concepts, connector setup, App Segment creation, and policy configuration.

- Zscaler Digital Experience (ZDX) - experience with performance monitoring and user experience optimization preferred.

- Hands-on experience with networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, VPN, GRE/IPsec).

- Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and their integration with Zscaler.

- Strong grasp of identity and access management (SAML, SCIM, OAuth).

- Knowledge of security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, and Zero Trust principles.

Professional Experience :

- 5- 10+ years of experience in network security, cloud security, or enterprise networking.

- Minimum 2- 3 years of direct Zscaler implementation and operations experience.

- Experience working with global enterprise networks and hybrid cloud environments.

Certifications (Preferred) :

- Zscaler Certified Cloud Professional (ZCCP)

- Zscaler Certified Cloud Administrator (ZCCA-IA / ZCCA-PA)

- Zscaler Certified Cloud Engineer (ZCCE)

- CCNP Security, CISSP, or Azure/AWS Security certifications (bonus)