Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of secure networks across diverse environments.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a leader in Cyber & Security Solutions with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in network security while mentoring future engineers.
- Qualifications: Extensive networking expertise and problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description:
Your impact
Are you ready to take on complex technical challenges and shape secure networks that underpin the UK’s most critical missions? At Leonardo, our Principal Network Engineers are recognised as subject matter experts, providing advanced technical authority and leading the design, integration, and delivery of resilient network solutions.
Your work at Leonardo UK will see you take the lead in solving customer problems in an agile, innovative and team-centric manner. The role may involve a blended hybrid working model, with a mixture of working from home and working on site at one of our Leonardo offices to ensure close collaboration with the wider team and with our customers.
What you will do as a Principal Network Engineer
What you’ll bring
Core areas (must have):
Desirable:
This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit:
Location
This role can be based at one of our UK sites Gloucester, with hybrid/custom working options where appropriate.
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you\’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website.
Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.
Be part of something bigger – apply now
#LI-CYBER
Principal Network Engineer employer: Leonardo
Contact Detail:
Leonardo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Network Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network your way to success! Reach out to professionals in the industry, attend networking events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that Principal Network Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies showcasing your previous projects and achievements in network engineering. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to refine your responses to common technical questions. We want you to feel confident and ready to tackle any question thrown your way.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Don’t hesitate – take that step today!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Network Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Principal Network Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in networking protocols and technologies, as well as any relevant certifications. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
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 background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your problem-solving mindset and any leadership experience you have – we love that!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, be sure to highlight your hands-on engineering experience alongside your technical leadership. Mention specific projects where you've designed secure networks or led teams, as this will demonstrate your capability to own technical delivery.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo
✨Know Your Networking Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of networking protocols and technologies like BGP, OSPF, and MPLS. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in real-world scenarios, especially in secure environments.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Network Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've guided junior engineers or led projects, highlighting your technical authority and problem-solving mindset.
✨Understand the Company’s Needs
Research Leonardo and their Cyber & Security Solutions Division. Understand their projects and challenges, and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals. This will show your genuine interest and help you tailor your responses.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions during your interview. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely, and be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios that test your design and implementation skills in hybrid and cloud environments.
