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- Tasks: Design and maintain critical network infrastructure in a dynamic, safety-focused environment.
- Company: Join NATS, a leader in air traffic management with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive £500 per hour rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on network systems that keep air travel safe and efficient.
- Qualifications: CCNA required; CCNP preferred, with strong Cisco networking skills.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative team with occasional travel to airport sites.
NATS is seeking an experienced Network Systems Engineer to support and maintain critical network infrastructure within a highly regulated, safety-critical environment. The successful contractor will work as part of a specialist engineering team, ensuring the availability, performance, and security of complex network systems. This role requires strong hands-on expertise across enterprise networking technologies, with a particular focus on Cisco and firewall technologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, support, maintain, and troubleshoot enterprise network infrastructure
- Configure and manage network hardware including routers, firewalls, and switches
- Provide operational support for mission-critical systems in a high-availability environment
- Work with Cisco networking technologies across LAN, WAN, and security domains
- Support and maintain firewall solutions, including Palo Alto
- Operate and manage Nokia 7705 platforms
- Participate in on-site support at airport locations when required
- Ensure compliance with security, operational, and safety standards
- Collaborate with internal teams and stakeholders to resolve network issues and implement changes
Required Skills & Experience
- Proven experience as a Network / Systems Engineer in complex environments
- Strong expertise in Cisco networking technologies
- Hands-on experience with routers and firewalls
- Experience with Palo Alto firewalls
- Working knowledge of Nokia 7705 platforms
- Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
- Ability to work in operationally critical, regulated environments
Qualifications
- CCNA (required)
- CCNP (preferred)
Working Pattern
- Hybrid working model: 2-3 days per week onsite in Whiteley
- Flexibility to attend airport sites occasionally (typically one-week periods)
Systems Engineer - Networks in Southampton employer: Defence
Contact Detail:
Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Engineer - Networks in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Reach out to connections on LinkedIn or attend local meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Systems Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your Cisco and firewall knowledge. We recommend setting up a home lab or using simulation software to practice troubleshooting scenarios. The more hands-on experience you have, the better!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After an interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to hiring managers. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Engineer - Networks in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Cisco and firewall technologies. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on expertise in network systems!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Systems Engineer role. Mention your experience in high-availability environments and how you’ve tackled complex network issues in the past.
Showcase Relevant Certifications: Don’t forget to mention your CCNA and any other relevant certifications. We love seeing that you’ve got the qualifications to back up your experience, especially in a regulated environment like ours!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Defence
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Cisco networking technologies, routers, and firewalls. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these skills, as well as any troubleshooting experiences you've had in complex environments.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled network issues in high-availability settings. Think of a couple of scenarios where you identified a problem, implemented a solution, and what the outcome was. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and ability to work under pressure.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research NATS and their operational standards, especially regarding safety and compliance. Showing that you understand their values and how you can contribute to maintaining their critical network infrastructure will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect technical questions or even practical tests related to network configuration and management. Brush up on your knowledge of Palo Alto firewalls and Nokia 7705 platforms, as well as any relevant certifications like CCNA or CCNP, to confidently tackle these challenges.