Network Architect in Farnborough

Network Architect in Farnborough

Farnborough Full-Time 70000 - 90000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
DXC Technology

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and implement secure network infrastructures for defence and aerospace clients.
  • Company: Join DXC Technology, a Fortune 500 leader in tech services.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced pension, private medical insurance, and flexible working.
  • Other info: Opportunity for professional development and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by architecting critical networks for major defence organisations.
  • Qualifications: 12+ years in network engineering with strong architecture experience required.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.

About DXC Technology

DXC Technology is a Fortune 500 global technology services company with over 40 years' presence in the UK, recently establishing its Aerospace and Defence Hub in Farnborough. We deliver critical network solutions supporting defence and aerospace organisations operating in highly secure, mission-critical environments.

About the Role

The Network Architect designs, implements and manages enterprise-scale secure network infrastructures for defence and aerospace clients. You will lead the development of network strategies, architect secure multi-site connectivity solutions, and ensure networks support both current operations and future modernisation programmes. This role demands deep technical expertise in network technologies, security architecture and MOD-compliant network design.

Key Responsibilities

  • Network Architecture & Design
    • Design enterprise-scale secure network architectures supporting defence operations
    • Architect multi-site connectivity solutions including WAN, MPLS, SD-WAN and hybrid cloud network designs
    • Design segmented network architectures incorporating zero-trust security models
    • Lead network technology selection and recommend solutions aligned with security and operational requirements
    • Design network resilience, failover and disaster recovery capabilities
  • Security & Compliance Integration
    • Architect network security controls including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention and advanced threat protection
    • Design network segmentation and access control frameworks aligned with MOD Classification Guides
    • Ensure network designs comply with Defence Security Policy and ITAR regulations
    • Lead network vulnerability assessment and remediation planning
    • Collaborate with security architects on integrated defence-in-depth network strategies
  • Network Modernisation & Implementation
    • Lead design and implementation of network modernisation programmes (legacy to SD-WAN, 4G/5G integration)
    • Guide cloud-ready network architectures supporting hybrid and multi-cloud strategies
    • Design software-defined networking (SDN) solutions and network function virtualisation (NFV) implementations
    • Lead network infrastructure migrations and technology transitions
  • Technical Leadership & Governance
    • Lead network technical teams and provide architectural mentoring
    • Establish network design standards, architecture patterns and operational governance
    • Drive technical decision-making through network design reviews
    • Document network architecture decisions and design specifications
  • Performance, Optimisation & Operations
    • Design QoS policies and traffic management strategies supporting mission-critical applications
    • Optimise network performance, bandwidth utilisation and latency
    • Support network capacity planning and scalability assessments
    • Establish network monitoring, troubleshooting and operational support frameworks
  • Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
    • Serve as primary technical authority for network architecture discussions with customer leadership
    • Present network recommendations to senior stakeholders and defence programme teams
    • Manage network architecture workshops and customer design validation activities

Essential Requirements

  • Security Clearance
    • Must hold or be eligible to obtain DV clearance - Essential
    • 10 years continuous UK residency required
  • Experience & Expertise
    • Minimum 12 years' network engineering experience with 5+ years in architecture role
    • Proven experience designing enterprise-scale secure network infrastructures
    • Strong background in defence, aerospace or government network programmes
    • Demonstrated expertise with WAN, MPLS, SD-WAN and cloud-ready network designs
    • Track record of leading network modernisation and infrastructure transformation programmes
  • Technical Knowledge
    • Deep expertise in network design methodologies and architecture frameworks
    • Expert-level knowledge of network technologies including routing, switching, firewalls and VPN
    • Strong understanding of SD-WAN, software-defined networking (SDN) and network virtualisation
    • Proficiency in cloud networking (AWS, Azure, or equivalent) and hybrid connectivity models
    • Advanced knowledge of network security architecture including zero-trust security models
    • Understanding of 4G/5G network technologies and wireless integration
    • Familiarity with MOD security requirements, Classification Guides and defence contractor compliance
    • Knowledge of network monitoring, analytics and optimisation tools

Personal Attributes

  • Exceptional strategic thinking with strong technical depth
  • Outstanding communication and presentation capabilities
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Proven ability to lead technical teams and influence senior stakeholders
  • Commitment to security excellence and operational resilience

Desirable Requirements

  • Previous DV or SC clearance
  • Experience with defence and aerospace network programmes
  • CCNP, JNCIP or equivalent advanced network certification
  • Experience with network security specialisations (CCNP Security, CISSP)
  • AWS/Azure networking certifications
  • Knowledge of ITAR compliance and export controls

What We Offer

  • Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
  • Enhanced pension and private medical insurance
  • Flexible working and professional development support
  • Opportunity to architect critical networks for major defence organisations

Application Process & Security Vetting

Applicants should be aware that DV clearance is essential and the vetting process typically takes 6-9 months. Applicants must have 10 years continuous UK residency.

Equal Opportunities

DXC Technology is an equal opportunities employer committed to building diverse, inclusive teams.

Network Architect in Farnborough employer: DXC Technology

At DXC Technology, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for those in the Network Architect role at our Aerospace and Defence Hub in Farnborough. We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a flexible working environment that promotes professional development and personal wellbeing. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture ensures that every employee has the opportunity to thrive while contributing to critical network solutions for major defence organisations.

DXC Technology

Contact Details:

DXC Technology Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Network Architect in Farnborough

Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community

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Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions

Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including DXC Technology, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.

Tailor Your Online Presence

Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!

Apply Directly Through DXC Technology

Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at DXC Technology. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.

We think you need these skills to ace Network Architect in Farnborough

Network Architecture
Secure Network Design
WAN, MPLS, SD-WAN
Hybrid Cloud Networking
Zero-Trust Security Models
Network Security Controls
Disaster Recovery Planning

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!

Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!

Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at DXC Technology insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.

Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to DXC Technology that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.

How to prepare for a job interview at DXC Technology

Sharpen Your Technical Skills

For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.

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Highlight Your Certifications

Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at DXC Technology.

Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity

Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.