At a Glance
- Tasks: Configure and support IT systems in schools, ensuring smooth operation of our Food Ordering System.
- Company: Join HCL, a leader in educational IT solutions with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in schools while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in Windows OS, Office 365, and network configuration is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36225 - 38122 € per year.
Location: Field-based across Hertfordshire and Surrounding Areas (Head Office: Mundells, Welwyn Garden City)
Salary Range: £36,225 - £38,122 per Annum (DOE)
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Reports to: IT Manager
HCL is seeking a highly skilled and proactive IT Field Engineer to oversee and maintain IT systems across educational institutions, ensuring the seamless operation of our proprietary Food Ordering System, Citrus. The successful candidate will be responsible for configuring, deploying, and supporting critical hardware and network infrastructure within school kitchens, providing expert technical assistance, and ensuring a high standard of IT service delivery. This role requires strong expertise in Windows operating systems, Office 365, and network configuration, along with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently. The IT Field Engineer will play a pivotal role in supporting system rollouts, managing hardware inventory, and assisting the IT Helpdesk team during non-deployment periods.
MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
- Hardware Configuration and Network Setup: Configure tablets, docking stations, serving-point devices, and mesh Wi-Fi systems for deployment across school kitchens. Enrol and validate devices in Microsoft Intune, ensuring compliance with company policies. Conduct kitchen-specific network assessments (signal strength, AP placement, interference). Apply best practices for network connectivity, ensuring reliable data flow between devices, Citrus, and HCL systems.
- Technical Support and Troubleshooting: Provide on-site and remote support during deployments and Go-Live events. Diagnose and resolve connectivity and hardware issues affecting data capture, Wi-Fi stability, and tablet performance. Identify issues related to school infrastructure (e.g., cabling routes, shielding, access points) and escalate appropriately. Work with Helpdesk and Systems teams to isolate device-level issues from system/software-level issues.
- Hardware Asset Management and Documentation: Maintain and update accurate records of all deployed devices using HCL’s asset tracking tools. Complete site installation checklists, including photos and connectivity test results. Document all changes to hardware, outlets, mesh placements, and network points. Ensure traceability for warranty, replacements, and lifecycle events.
- Project Planning and Scheduling: Independently plan and prioritise site visits based on rollout schedules and operational priorities. Coordinate with schools/MATs to schedule visits around safeguarding policies and site availability. Manage time and travel efficiently to maximise coverage across the estate. Provide progress updates to the Project Coordinator and IT Manager to support programme-level reporting.
- General IT Support: Escalate system-level issues (Citrus, BC, Payroll/HRIS) to appropriate teams while resolving underlying hardware/network causes. Support lifecycle tasks such as device replacement, collection, re-imaging, or recycling.
- Network and Infrastructure: Work with external cabling contractors to coordinate kitchen network point installations and ensure compliance with HCL technical specifications. Conduct quality assurance checks on newly installed network points, including testing, certification review, and documentation. Report site infrastructure issues (e.g., poor routing, electrical interference, access restrictions) and recommend improvements. Ensure installed solutions support HCL’s operational readiness for Citrus and future digital products.
This list should not be regarded as exhaustive, and the post holder will be expected to deliver other duties relevant and appropriate to this role and department.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Strong technical expertise in Windows OS, Office 365, and basic network configuration.
- Hands-on experience with hardware deployment and IT system installations in a field-based role.
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues methodically and effectively, both on-site and remotely.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to self-manage schedules and prioritise workload efficiently.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with school staff, external vendors, and internal teams.
- A proactive, problem-solving approach with a commitment to delivering high-quality IT support services.
- Previous experience working in an IT Field Engineer, IT Support, or similar role is highly desirable.
If you are interested in joining HCL, please apply today!
IT Field Engineer employer: Hertfordshire Catering Limited T/A HCL
HCL is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. As an IT Field Engineer, you will enjoy the flexibility of a field-based role across Hertfordshire, with competitive salary packages and opportunities to enhance your technical skills while making a meaningful impact in educational institutions. Join us to be part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering high-quality IT services and solutions.
Contact Detail:
Hertfordshire Catering Limited T/A HCL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Field Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Reach out to your connections in the IT field and let them know you're on the hunt for an IT Field Engineer role. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on! If you can, volunteer or take on freelance projects that allow you to showcase your skills in hardware configuration and network setup. This practical experience will make you stand out when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common troubleshooting scenarios. Be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical expertise, especially with Windows OS and Office 365. Practice makes perfect!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Field Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Windows OS, Office 365, and network configuration. We want to see how your skills match the role of IT Field Engineer, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your proactive approach can benefit our team. Remember, we love a good story, so share your journey in IT!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled technical issues in the past. We’re looking for someone who can troubleshoot effectively, so let us know how you’ve made a difference in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at HCL!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire Catering Limited T/A HCL
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Windows operating systems, Office 365, and network configuration. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've configured hardware or resolved technical issues in the past.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share real-life scenarios where you've diagnosed and fixed connectivity or hardware issues. Highlight your methodical approach to troubleshooting, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle challenges effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Since this role involves planning site visits and managing schedules, be ready to talk about how you prioritise tasks and manage your time. Consider sharing a story that illustrates your ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when collaborating with school staff and vendors. Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms, and be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully worked with teams in the past.
