About Zaid Amla

I’m a Security Engineer specializing in incident response, vulnerability management, and cloud security. Currently working at Caltech supporting NASA and JPL missions, I bring a deep understanding of security principles, best practices, and a track record of delivering scalable solutions across complex infrastructure.

Professional Background

Current Role: Caltech - Network and Security Engineer

April 2024 – Present

At Caltech, I secure critical infrastructure supporting NASA and JPL flight missions. My work involves:

  • Managing network security with Palo Alto firewalls and advanced IPS rules
  • Deploying Arista and Cisco infrastructure in a high-performance data center with 400Gbps backbone
  • Securing approximately 1,300 servers across RedHat, Debian, SunOS, and CentOS on-premises and in AWS
  • Implementing Kubernetes security with Cilium for enhanced container security and observability
  • Building vulnerability management programs using Rapid7
  • Ensuring compliance with NIST, FIPS, and FISMA standards

Previous Experience

Mygrant Glass - Security Engineer (January 2023 – April 2024)

  • Designed immutable air-gapped backups and disaster recovery with Rubrik
  • Implemented comprehensive email security with Checkpoint
  • Developed a 3-year cybersecurity roadmap and security awareness program
  • Conducted vulnerability assessments and managed remediation

Windsor Fashions - Security Analyst (May 2021 - January 2023)

  • Enhanced endpoint security with CrowdStrike EDR
  • Deployed Rapid7 IDR SIEM for centralized management
  • Built secure cloud infrastructure across AWS, Azure, and GCP
  • Successfully mitigated a ransomware incident, restoring operations in 72 hours
  • Achieved PCI and CCPA compliance

Technical Expertise

Security Specializations:

  • Incident Response & Computer Forensics
  • Vulnerability Management & Risk Assessment
  • Cloud Security (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  • Network Security & Endpoint Detection
  • Identity and Access Management
  • Security Architecture & Compliance

Technologies & Tools:

  • Firewalls: Palo Alto, Fortigate, Cisco Meraki
  • EDR/SIEM: CrowdStrike, Rapid7
  • Cloud: AWS, Azure, GCP, Kubernetes
  • Automation: Ansible, Python, Bash
  • Network: Arista, Cisco, Cilium

Certifications

  • CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional
  • OSCP - Offensive Security Certified Professional
  • ECSA - EC-Council Certified Security Analyst
  • CHFI - Certified Hacking Forensics Investigator
  • CEH - Certified Ethical Hacker

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (2014-2017)

Beyond Security

When I’m not securing networks and cloud infrastructure, I’m passionate about:

  • General Aviation - Taking to the skies
  • Astronomy & Astrophotography - Exploring the cosmos
  • Gardening - Growing things and connecting with nature
  • Travel - Discovering new places and cultures

Get in Touch

I’m always interested in discussing security challenges, cloud architecture, or sharing knowledge about aviation and astronomy. Feel free to reach out!

Location: Monrovia, CA
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zaidamla