Lead Network Engineer in London

Our world-leading Time & Frequency department seeks a Lead Network Engineer. 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, and 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:

• Lead the delivery and management of the NTC network infrastructure, ensuring successful deployment of mission-critical capabilities.
• Provide strategic and technical leadership to the NTC Network Engineering team.
• Own the design, implementation and evolution of network infrastructure.
• Continuous improvement of network capabilities, enhancing existing infrastructure to meet future demands.
• Partner with senior stakeholders and the Technical Authority to shape strategy and steer the delivery of network solutions.
• Ensure compliance with governance requirements, managing risk and assurance (across quality, health and safety, security and environmental standards).
• Mentoring and developing colleagues while driving a culture of technical excellence.

About You:

• Proven expertise in network engineering with delivery of complex infrastructure projects/solutions, at scale.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Experience delivering mission-critical projects within UK Government or other highly regulated environments.
• Strong understanding of project governance, assurance frameworks and compliance requirements.
• Proven ability to build, mentor and develop high-performing technical teams.
• Strong awareness of emerging technologies and their application within complex network environments.
• Strategic and forward-thinking mindset, with the ability to anticipate challenges and develop sustainable solutions.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in this specific area means that nationality, residency and security requirements are 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, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

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. 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.