At a Glance
- Tasks: Optimise network infrastructure across UK and Europe, supporting large-scale projects.
- Company: Join a leading company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, excellent pension, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and travel to exciting locations like France.
- Why this job: Make an impact on network solutions while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in enterprise networking and hands-on skills with Cisco technologies.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
With some exciting growth in the Network team, we are looking for a new Network Engineer to join our team in either Northampton or East Ridings of Yorkshire. As an experienced Network Engineer you will be delivering and optimising network infrastructure across Howdens’ depots across Europe, and logistics facilities. The role requires active participation in large‑scale, multi‑site projects to develop robust, scalable, and cost‑effective solutions. This is a full‑time permanent opportunity working onsite at least 2 days per week. Based in Northampton or Yorkshire with occasional travel to France.
What you will be doing:
- Delivering and optimising network infrastructure across multiple UK and European sites
- Supporting and improving network performance, capacity, and security across a complex enterprise environment
- Providing 2nd/3rd line support across a wide range of network technologies
- Contributing to large‑scale, multi‑site projects from design through to implementation and handover into BAU
- Monitoring network health and proactively troubleshooting to maximise uptime and SLA performance
- Supporting development of network automation and scripting solutions to improve efficiency
- Collaborating with internal teams and stakeholders to deliver scalable, resilient network solutions
What we need from you:
- Strong experience in enterprise networking, including LAN/WAN, firewalls, VPNs, and WiFi
- Demonstrable hands‑on experience with CheckPoint Firewalls
- Certified Cisco LAN/WAN
- Demonstrable experience of DNA and/or ACI is essential
- Extensive knowledge of network automation, with proficiency in scripting to optimize network operations.
- Strong background in data/voice networking, and internet networking for enterprise environments.
- Hands‑on experience with Cisco and Wireless technologies.
- Strong, methodical approach to fault‑finding and solution design for complex network environments.
- Experience working on multi‑site infrastructure projects
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly
- A proactive, collaborative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement
What we can offer you:
- Competitive salary and annual company bonus
- Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days
- Staff Discount
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional Reward and Recognition events
Network Engineer in Sheffield employer: Howdens
Howdens is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly for Network Engineers looking to make a significant impact across our European network infrastructure. With competitive salaries, generous pension contributions, and a commitment to employee growth through continuous improvement initiatives, we provide a supportive environment where your skills can thrive. Located in the vibrant areas of Northampton and East Ridings of Yorkshire, our team enjoys not only professional development opportunities but also a balanced work-life experience with flexible onsite requirements and exciting travel prospects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Engineer in Sheffield
✨Get Chummy with Industry Events
Dive into telecommunications networking conferences and expos. These are golden opportunities to meet potential employers like Howdens and learn about open positions directly from their teams. Keep an eye out for workshops or panels – they’re perfect for showcasing your passion and expertise!
✨Join Networking Communities
Find online forums or local meetups that focus on telecommunications and networking. Sites like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit communities can be great for connecting with professionals in the field. Just remember to participate in discussions – you never know when someone might mention job openings at places like Howdens.
✨Showcase Your Skills with Personal Projects
If you’ve got any personal projects or contributions to open-source networking tools, flaunt them! Create a portfolio that showcases your skills relevant to what telecommunication companies are looking for. It’s a great conversation starter during interviews and networking chats.
✨Utilise Online Job Boards Wisely
While we’re all about encouraging you to apply through our website, also keep an eye on job boards specific to tech and telecommunication roles. Websites such as Telecommunication Jobs and TechCareers often list full-time roles that may not appear elsewhere. Just be sure to tailor every application to grab attention – even small tweaks can make a big difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Network Engineer in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Know-How:When you're applying for a role in telecommunications and networking, it’s crucial to highlight your technical skills. Mention specific technologies you're proficient in, like IP networking, VoIP, or security protocols. Be sure your CV includes any relevant certifications such as CCNA or CompTIA Network+; they really show you've got the chops for the job.
Tailor Your Experience to Match Networking Projects:In your CV and cover letter, don’t just list your past jobs—showcase specific projects that align with the role! If you've worked on network design, implementation, or troubleshooting, weave those experiences in and highlight metrics to demonstrate your impact. This paints a vivid picture of how you'd fit into the role at Howdens.
Show Enthusiasm for the Industry:With telecommunications evolving rapidly, it’s important to express your passion for the field in your application. Mention any trends or innovations you've been following that excite you and how they'd influence your work. This can really set you apart and show that you're not just after a job, but a career!
Keep It Clean and Professional:While it’s important to be personable, ensure your application maintains a clean and structured format. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy for hiring managers to dig into your skills and experience. Remember, you’re applying for a full-time role, so a well-organised application will signal your seriousness about the position at Howdens.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Brush Up on Networking Protocols
Make sure you’re up to speed with the key networking protocols like TCP/IP, UDP, and perhaps even MPLS if it's relevant. We can expect technical questions about how these protocols function and the problems they solve, so a solid understanding will help you shine.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Got a portfolio? Bring it along! Highlight any relevant projects where you've designed or managed network systems. This is your chance to demonstrate practical experience; employers love to see how your skills can be applied in real-world scenarios.
✨Get Comfortable with Technical Scenarios
You might be faced with a case study or a technical troubleshooting scenario during the interview. Practise responding to common networking issues—like packet loss or latency problems. Thinking through these scenarios will help us sound confident and competent in our responses.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration Skills
In the telecommunications field, teamwork is key! Make sure to share examples of how you’ve worked collaboratively, whether in past jobs or projects at uni. Employers want to see that you’re not just technically savvy, but also great at working within a team setting.