At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and management of enterprise network services for seamless connectivity.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on innovative network solutions.
- Benefits: Remote work flexibility, competitive day rate, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work from home with occasional office visits and a dynamic team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring secure and resilient network connectivity across multiple locations.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in network architecture and strong expertise in cloud security and remote access.
We are seeking a highly experienced Networks Lead for our client who is accountable for the definition, ownership, and continual evolution of the enterprise network services supporting all client employees and business applications. This role ensures seamless, secure, and resilient connectivity across locations, multiple application environments (including SaaS and AWS-hosted apps), and operating company (OpCo) boundaries, in line with the highest quality standards applying to client organisations.
You can also ask our friendly recruitment team any questions you may have about the role, between 8:30am-5:30pm Monday to Friday.
Shifts: Monday – Friday (37.5 hours per week)
Network Service Definition & Ownership:
- Own all facets of the IAG Transform Network Service, incorporating Connectivity Services, Next Generation Firewall, LAN & Wi-Fi, Cloud Secure Edge, and Break-Fix support, as outlined in the Service Design Document.
- Architect and manage robust, low-latency, and resilient connectivity between all client locations, cloud environments (including AWS), SaaS applications, and other OpCos.
VPN & Remote Access:
- Ensure seamless VPN and secure remote access for applications and users as required, supporting flexible and distributed working models.
- Enable and govern secure, policy-compliant connectivity between client apps and those of other OpCos. Facilitate both inbound and outbound connectivity while managing risk and maintaining service integrity.
Performance Management:
- Define and monitor service levels (availability, latency, packet loss, incident response and resolution times). Proactively address issues impacting service quality.
Security & Compliance:
- Oversee next generation firewall deployments, SSE/cloud security services, and enforce policy-based access controls. Ensure compliance with all regulatory and business requirements.
Incident & Problem Management:
- Lead the network incident response, prioritization, and escalation processes. Work closely with engineering and service desk teams on rapid restoration and continuous improvement.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management:
- Manage relationships with third-party service providers, technology partners, and internal stakeholders to deliver on service commitments and drive innovation.
- Review and update the Network Service Design Document as technology, business needs, or regulatory obligations evolve. Implement best practices for service reliability, scalability, and user experience.
Connectivity Services:
- 10Gbps links, data centre cross-connects, Smart Wires (EoF/EoC), resiliency (dual/single path), national and international reach.
Next Generation Firewall:
- HA pair deployment, threat detection, policy enforcement, and continuous monitoring.
Prisma Access SSE/Cloud Edge:
- Secure access for remote and distributed users, zero trust enablement, integration with cloud/on-premise environments.
Break-Fix:
- 24/7/4 and Next Business Day hardware support, on-site engineer dispatch, and flexible response options.
Proven leadership in enterprise network architecture, operations, and service design, ideally in complex, multi-location, and multi-OpCos environments. Expertise in high-speed WAN, data centre, and cloud connectivity (10Gbps+, cross-connects, Smart Wires, etc.). Strong background in secure remote access (VPN, SSE), cloud security, and firewall technologies (NGFW, HA configurations). Hands-on experience with LAN & Wi-Fi design, deployment, and troubleshooting at scale.
Key Performance Indicator:
- Network availability in line with tiered targets (e.g. up to 99.999% for resilient configurations).
- Secure, policy-compliant enablement of application connectivity across client and OpCos.
This is a 6 months contract. A day rate, in-scope of IR35, either via a Hays approved umbrella company or via Hays PAYE. This role provides remote working access from the comforts of your own home and only going to our state-of-the-art office in Waterside 3 days per week and once in 3-4 weeks as on call.
If your application is successful, you’ll be involved in a live virtual interview with one of our client’s hiring managers to get to know you better.
Lead Networks Engineer employer: Hays
As a Lead Networks Engineer, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises innovation and employee growth. Our company offers flexible remote working options, a collaborative culture, and opportunities for professional development, all while being based in our state-of-the-art Waterside office. Join us to be part of a team that values your expertise and encourages you to drive impactful network solutions across multiple locations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Networks Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Reach out to connections on LinkedIn or attend networking events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your virtual interview by researching the company and its network services. We recommend jotting down key points about their projects and how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to network architecture and security. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. We believe it shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Networks Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Networks Lead role. Highlight your experience with enterprise network architecture and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description, and don’t forget to show your enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Be sure to include any technical skills that are relevant to the role, like your expertise in VPNs, firewalls, and cloud security. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their hands-on experience with the technologies mentioned in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Networks Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of enterprise network architecture, especially around connectivity services and cloud security. Be ready to discuss specific technologies like VPNs, next-generation firewalls, and AWS-hosted applications, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Networks Lead, demonstrating your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've managed teams or projects in complex environments. Think about times when you’ve led incident responses or improved service reliability, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions that test your problem-solving skills. Brush up on performance management metrics like latency and packet loss, and be prepared to explain how you would address issues impacting service quality. Practising with mock interviews can help you feel more confident.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s network strategy, their approach to vendor management, or how they handle compliance. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
