At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-performance networking for next-gen AI infrastructure in data centres.
- Company: Join Era4, a mission-driven start-up transforming energy sites into modern data centres.
- Benefits: Initial 6-month contract with opportunities for growth and autonomy.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with occasional office visits in the UK.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical national infrastructure while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in data centre networks, routing, and automation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Era4 develops, owns and operates AI infrastructure across the UK, powered by renewable energy.
Converting legacy industrial and energy sites into modern data‑centre facilities, Era4 is combining brownfield regeneration opportunities with cleaner, efficient, scalable compute capacity for healthcare, research, finance, enterprise, and public‑sector organisations
Initial 6 month contract.
Must be able to start on 20th July or 3rd August. (These dates are fixed)
Role Summary
We are seeking a hands on Freelance Data Centre Network Engineer to support the delivery and operation of high‑performance networking underpinning a next‑generation AI infrastructure platform.
This role focuses on data centre networking, routing, automation, and reliability, ensuring that GPU compute, storage, and platform services operate efficiently at scale.
You will collaborate closely with platform engineering, infrastructure, and AI teams to deliver stable, high performance networking services.
- Key Objectives
- Support deployment and operation of data centre network fabrics across compute and storage environments.
- Ensure reliable, low‑latency connectivity for AI/GPU workloads.
- Troubleshoot and resolve network and infrastructure performance issues.
- Improve automation, configuration management, and operational processes.
- Contribute to monitoring, alerting, and capacity planning across the network stack.
- Produce clear documentation and support knowledge transfer.
Key Responsibilities
- Configure, manage, and troubleshoot data centre networking environments.
- Support routing and switching across BGP, OSPF, VLANs, and VRFs.
- Work with modern data centre architectures (e. g., leaf‑spine, EVPN/VXLAN).
- Collaborate with platform and infrastructure teams to enable secure, scalable connectivity.
- Implement and support network automation using tools such as Python, Ansible, or Terraform.
- Contribute to monitoring, observability, and incident response processes.
- Document configurations, processes, and changes for operational handover.
- Required Experience
- In‑depth experience designing, deploying and supporting enterprise or data centre networks.
- Excellent knowledge of TCP/IP, routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF) and modern data centre architectures (EVPN/VXLAN, leaf‑spine).
- Experience with Cisco, Arista, Juniper or similar networking platforms.
- Strong troubleshooting skills across network infrastructure and Linux‑based systems.
- Experience with network automation and Infrastructure as Code.
- Familiarity with Kubernetes/container networking and network security, segmentation and firewall integration.
- Exposure to IPv6, Segment Routing (SRv6), Infini Band/RDMA and high‑performance networking technologies.
- Experience supporting AI, GPU or HPC infrastructure environments is advantageous.
- Excellent communication, documentation and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Why Join Era4
You’llbe joining a mission‑driven start‑up building critical national infrastructure, where operational excellence directly enables growth.
This role offers high visibility with leadership, real autonomy, and the chance to shape how a next‑generation companyoperatesat scale.
Diversity & Inclusion
Era4 is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
- United Kingdom (Occasional office visit maybe required)
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Network Engineer (Contract) employer: Carbon3ai Limited.
Era4 is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bristol where innovation meets sustainability. As a Service Desk Analyst, you'll play a crucial role in supporting cutting-edge AI infrastructure while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and development within a mission-driven start-up culture that values diversity and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Engineer (Contract)
✨Get Involved in IT Consulting Communities
Join popular online forums and communities specifically for IT consultants, like Spiceworks or TechRepublic. This is a fab way to connect with potential clients and stay updated on industry trends that could lead to freelance gigs.
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Public Portfolio
Create a portfolio website where you showcase your IT consulting projects, case studies, and testimonials from past clients. This not only builds your credibility but also makes it easier for potential clients to see what you can offer.
✨Utilise Freelance Platforms
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Reach out to your existing connections in the IT sector and let them know you’re available for freelance projects. This could also mean attending local tech meetups or webinars where you can not only learn but find new clients. And remember, if you see a role that looks right, apply through our website at Carbon3ai Limited. for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Network Engineer (Contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Toolbox:Let’s be real: in IT consulting, your skills and tools can make or break the project. Make sure your CV includes a solid list of the technologies you’ve worked with and any specific programming languages you're fluent in. If you’ve got experience with project management tools, like JIRA or Trello, shout about that too! It shows you're not just a tech head, but you can manage the chaos too.
Your Portfolio is Your Best Mate:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make it shine! Include case studies of projects you’ve worked on that highlight your problem-solving skills and the impact of your work. Make sure to detail the challenges faced and how you overcame them—clients love to see tangible results. A well-structured portfolio is your best chance to impress!
Tailor Your Approach:Unlike full-time applications, freelance gigs need that personal touch. Write a cover letter that doesn't just highlight your skills but also your understanding of Carbon3ai Limited. and what they’re looking for. Explain how your unique approach can solve their challenges. This kind of personalisation shows you care and sets you apart from the cookie-cutter applications.
Be Clear on Your Rates and Availability:When applying for freelance roles, clarity is key! Include your rates and availability upfront in your application to avoid any confusion later. This honesty will save both you and Carbon3ai Limited. time, and it shows you’re serious about doing business. We believe it’s best to be transparent right from the get-go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carbon3ai Limited.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
In IT consulting, they’ll want to see how you tackle real-life client issues. Prepare to discuss specific case studies from your freelance experience where you've demonstrated your problem-solving prowess. Come armed with examples that highlight the strategies you used and the results achieved.
✨Pitch Your Portfolio Like a Pro
As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make sure it’s not just a collection of past projects but a narrative of your journey. Be ready to discuss how each project reflects your capability and how you can bring value to Carbon3ai Limited.. Tailor this pitch to highlight projects that align closely with what they seek.
✨Brush Up on the Latest Tech Trends
IT consulting is all about staying ahead of the game. Make sure you’re familiar with the latest tools and technologies that are shaping the industry. You might get asked about a specific platform or software, so having fresh knowledge will give you the edge over other candidates.
✨Be Prepared for Hypothetical Scenarios
Expect some hypothetical or situational questions that assess how you'd handle various client scenarios. Practice thinking on your feet and responding to questions about project challenges or client interactions. This shows your adaptability and readiness for the freelance lifestyle, which works differently from traditional employment.
