At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a cloud platform for innovative research across 15 universities.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on collaborative research while advancing your tech skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in cloud solutions, particularly AWS, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 31600 - 37700 Β£ per year.
Role: Technical Specialist (Cloud Solutions Architect)
Grade and Salary: Grade 7, Β£37,694 - Β£47,389 per annum
FTE and working pattern: 1 FTE, 35 hrs per week
Contract: Fixed Term until 31 July 2027 (potential secondment opportunity)
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)
Project Background: The Trusted Research and Secure Innovation (TReSI) Network is a new project, led by Heriot-Watt University and funded by the Scottish Funding Council. The aim of the project is to build scalable, sustainable capabilities across Scottish universities to implement transparent and responsible Trusted Research and Secure Innovation practices.
Purpose of Role: We are seeking a Cloud Solutions Specialist to join an exciting 18-month fixed-term project in partnership with 15 universities. The project aims to create a shared cloud-based platform for trusted research and secure innovation, enabling collaboration across institutions.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
- Lead the implementation and support of the cloud-based platform hub, ensuring it meets consortium needs.
- Collaborate with colleagues at other institutions to integrate local systems and resources with the cloud platform.
- Contribute to and support wider Academic Technology team activities as required.
- Communicate complex technical ideas to non-technical stakeholders effectively.
- Work independently and as part of a team to meet project deadlines.
- Ensure compliance with cyber security practices and relevant regulations.
- Monitor and maintain the cloud platform, troubleshooting and resolving issues as they arise.
- Stay up-to-date with advancements in cloud technology and best practices.
Essential Criteria:
- Educated to SCQF Level 7-8 (HNC/HND) AND/OR relevant Degree AND/OR an Apprenticeship in a relevant subject PLUS ideally at least 5 yearsβ post-qualification work experience in a relevant role; OR the equivalent comparable relevant work experience.
- Recognised and substantial experience and expertise in cloud solutions, particularly AWS.
- Experience in building and supporting cloud solutions.
- Excellent interpersonal, influencing, and presentation skills, able to understand and communicate complex issues effectively.
- Ability to work quickly, flexibly, and accurately in a dynamic, changing, and pressured environment.
- Demonstrable experience of providing good customer service and of working effectively with stakeholders across all levels of the organisation.
Desirable: AWS Solutions Architect certification or equivalent.
How To Apply: Applications can be submitted up to midnight (UK time) on Tuesday 10th February 2026. Please submit your CV & covering letter via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment.
About The Team: The Research Engagement Directorate provides high quality support for the Heriot-Watt research community across 3 divisions: Research and Researcher Development, Legal, Policy, Strategy and Impact and the Research Futures Hub (incorporating the Graduate School).
About Heriot-Watt University: At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together.
Technical Specialist - Trusted Research & Secure Innovation Network in Kilmarnock employer: Heriot-Watt University
Contact Detail:
Heriot-Watt University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Technical Specialist - Trusted Research & Secure Innovation Network in Kilmarnock
β¨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before theyβre advertised.
β¨Show Off Your Skills
Donβt just tell potential employers what you can do; show them! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your projects and achievements. This is especially important for a technical role like Cloud Solutions Architect.
β¨Ace the Interview
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to cloud solutions. Be ready to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as youβll need to communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders.
β¨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Specialist - Trusted Research & Secure Innovation Network in Kilmarnock
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technical Specialist role. Highlight your cloud solutions experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Trusted Research and Secure Innovation Network project. Let us know how your background makes you a perfect fit for this role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be communicating complex ideas to non-technical stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to simplify technical jargon. Use clear language in your application to show us you can bridge that gap!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the best way to ensure we receive your CV and cover letter. Plus, it helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
β¨Know Your Cloud Solutions
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of cloud solutions, especially AWS. Be prepared to discuss your experience in building and supporting cloud platforms, as well as any specific projects you've worked on that relate to the role.
β¨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to explain complex technical ideas to non-technical stakeholders, practice simplifying your explanations. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you've successfully communicated these concepts before.
β¨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves collaboration with colleagues from various institutions. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams, especially in dynamic environments. Highlight your ability to adapt and contribute to team goals.
β¨Stay Updated on Trends
Keep yourself informed about the latest advancements in cloud technology and best practices. Mention any recent developments or tools you've learned about that could benefit the project, showing your commitment to continuous learning.