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- Tasks: Design and implement cutting-edge network solutions for critical national services.
- Company: Join a leading Global Technology Services Provider in the UK Defence sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, car allowance, performance bonus, and hybrid working model.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile projects while developing your career in a secure environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in complex network solutions and knowledge of Cisco/Juniper technologies required.
- Other info: SC Clearance eligibility is necessary; previous defence sector experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Basingstoke (Hybrid Model with regular travel to customer & company sites)
Salary: Up to £60,000 per annum + £6,000 Car Allowance + Performance Bonus
Clearance: You would need to be eligible for, or currently hold SC Clearance
Are you a talented WAN Architect looking to make a real impact? Ready to design and deliver cutting-edge network solutions for high-profile projects within the secure UK Defence and National Security sector? We are partnering with a leading Global Technology Services Provider who are seeking a skilled WAN Architect to join their project delivery team.
In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in designing and implementing medium to large-scale, cost-effective network solutions that underpin critical national services. This is a fantastic opportunity to leverage your technical expertise, providing leadership and ensuring the successful delivery of complex network infrastructures.
What you'll be doing:
- Take technical ownership of WAN solution design, from understanding intricate business and technical requirements through to successful delivery.
- Develop robust, high-quality design documentation (HLDs, LLDs) for multi-vendor network solutions (eg, Cisco, Juniper).
- Lead solutions through internal and external governance reviews, ensuring compliance and best practice.
- Collaborate effectively with project managers, wider programme teams, and customers to ensure solutions are delivered on time and meet expectations.
- Architect innovative and sometimes non-standard solutions incorporating LAN, WAN, WiFi, VPN, Voice, Video, Cyber, and Security technologies.
- Manage technical risks and dependencies, demonstrating strong commercial and financial awareness.
- Act as a key technical point of contact, communicating calmly and concisely with diverse stakeholders, including customers.
What we're looking for:
- Demonstrable experience in designing and delivering complex network solutions, translating customer needs into tangible technical designs.
- Proven design expertise with technologies from multiple global network vendors (Cisco, Juniper strongly preferred).
- Strong foundational networking knowledge, ideally backed by industry certifications (eg, CCNA/CCNP, JNCIA-Design/Junos, or equivalent experience).
- A solid understanding of the end-to-end project life cycle, from initial requirements gathering to Operational Acceptance.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills, with a proactive and decisive approach.
- Ability to take ownership, manage priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced project environment.
- Ideally, previous experience working within the UK Defence or National Security sector (SC or DV clearance, or eligibility for clearance, would be highly advantageous).
What's on offer:
- Competitive base salary up to £60,000.
- Generous £6,000 car allowance.
- Performance-related bonus scheme.
- Hybrid working model offering flexibility.
- The chance to work on significant, impactful projects within a secure and stimulating environment.
- Career development opportunities within a globally recognised technology leader.
Ready to take the next step in your Network Architecture career? If you are a proactive WAN Architect with a passion for delivering excellence, we want to hear from you!
Contact Detail:
CBS Butler Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land WAN Architect - Secure & Critical Projects
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Cisco and Juniper. Having hands-on experience or relevant certifications can significantly boost your credibility during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the UK Defence and National Security sector. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with others who may provide insights or referrals that could help you land the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous projects in detail, especially those involving complex network solutions. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you ensured successful delivery, as this will demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by practising how you would explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. This is crucial for the role, as you'll need to collaborate with diverse teams and clients effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace WAN Architect - Secure & Critical Projects
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in designing and delivering complex network solutions. Emphasise your familiarity with technologies from vendors like Cisco and Juniper, as well as any relevant certifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to take technical ownership and deliver high-quality design documentation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your experience within the UK Defence or National Security sector. If you have SC Clearance or are eligible for it, make sure to mention this prominently.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with diverse stakeholders in past projects. This will help demonstrate your fit for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at CBS Butler
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of what a WAN Architect does, especially in the context of secure and critical projects. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Cisco and Juniper, and be prepared to discuss your experience with them.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions that assess your knowledge of network design and implementation. Brush up on your understanding of HLDs and LLDs, and be ready to explain how you've successfully delivered complex network solutions in the past.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a WAN Architect, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to convey complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner. Use examples from your previous roles to illustrate your communication skills.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have experience working within the UK Defence or National Security sector, make sure to highlight this during your interview. Discuss any relevant projects you've worked on and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role you're applying for.
