Configuration Manager in London

Our world‑leading Time & Frequency department seeks a Configuration Manager with recent experience in configuration of hardware, software and documentation. This is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure.

Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world‑first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems such as GPS – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming and spoofing. This will underpin essential services including:

• Telecommunications
• Online banking
• Emergency response
• Transport networks
• Wider digital and data‑driven operations

Together, these services form the backbone of modern society – and your leadership will help ensure they remain secure, reliable and robust even if global navigation satellite systems fail.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain compliance with Asset and Configuration Management processes
• Own pre‑production validation, ensuring changes are fully assessed before release
• Advise on hardware and software refresh and improvement activities
• Organise, manage, and chair the Configuration Control Board (CCB)
• Support and advise Project and Engineering teams to maintain configuration integrity
• Conduct configuration audits (FCA and PCA)

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:

• Proven experience operating as a Configuration Manager (or in an equivalent configuration‑focused role)
• Strong practical and/or academic foundation, supported by relevant professional qualifications or equivalent hands‑on experience
• Demonstrable experience using Configuration Management tools (such as 3DS PLM, Oracle, or comparable enterprise CM platforms)
• Hands‑on configuration experience within virtual environments, supporting complex infrastructure and systems
• Working knowledge of the full engineering project lifecycle, including configuration inputs at each phase

Security and Clearance

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. However, to work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert. We may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

About NPL

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world‑leading centre of excellence that provides cutting‑edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

Diversity and Equality

We are committed to diversity and equality of opportunity and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, provided they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

We are committed to the health and well‑being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work‑life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition.