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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to automate DevOps functions and manage software releases.
- Company: Be part of the UK's National Physical Laboratory, a leader in time and frequency measurement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Contribute to critical national infrastructure while pushing the boundaries of measurement accuracy.
- Qualifications: Experience in DevOps solutions, automation tools, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Security clearance is necessary; apply quickly as interviews are ongoing.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
Our world-leading Time & Frequency department is seeking an experienced and practicing Senior Software Engineer with proven expertise in DevOps automation and container orchestration.
You will be joining our team at an exciting time – we maintain the UK’s National Time Scale, UTC (NPL), and are currently developing a new resilient Time Scale facility that will underpin our Critical National Infrastructure. This will address the risks associated with our dependency on global navigation satellite systems (such as GPS) that are vulnerable to both natural and intentional interference.
You’ll work closely with the Product Manager(s) and Delivery Manager(s) to align product and business requirements, develop proposals, and balance tech debt to deliver product functionality.
Responsibilities
- Oversee software release management – automated deployment to multiple on-prem and cloud environments
- Develop scripts to automate DevOps functions
- Manage all content going live
Reporting and Role Context
Reporting to a Programme Manager, you\\\’ll play a pivotal role in the design of critical UK infrastructure that pushes the boundaries of measurement accuracy for the UK\\\’s new resilient Time Scale.
Skills, experience and qualifications
To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:
- Proven and recent experience in the delivery of DevOps solutions
- Team leadership
- Risk assessment and management
- Security mindset
- Clear communicator
- Essential technical skills: Automation – Packer, Terraform, Ansible, CI/CD practices, developing pipelines; Unix system administration; Cloud platform administration; Docker, container orchestration; Python and shell scripting; Professional software development experience
Desirable interests
It is also desirable if you have interest in Physics, measurements, and communications, for example:
- Time and frequency measurement and time scale steering
- Real-time monitoring and control of electronic hardware
- Satellite communication, optical fibre and GNSS-based systems
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. 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.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical
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DevOps Engineer employer: National Physical Laboratory
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land DevOps Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific tools and technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Packer, Terraform, Ansible, and Docker. Having hands-on experience or projects showcasing these skills can set you apart during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the DevOps field, especially those who have experience in critical infrastructure projects. Engaging in relevant online communities or attending industry meetups can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with risk assessment and management in a DevOps context. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've identified and mitigated risks in previous projects, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role requires SC clearance, ensure you understand the security requirements and be prepared to discuss your eligibility. Highlight any previous experience working in secure environments to demonstrate your suitability.
We think you need these skills to ace DevOps Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the DevOps Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned, such as Docker, Terraform, and CI/CD pipelines.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in DevOps automation and container orchestration. Emphasise any leadership roles and projects that demonstrate your ability to manage software release processes and automate functions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your skills and experiences directly to the job description. Mention your interest in the Time & Frequency department and how your background aligns with their mission to maintain the UK's National Time Scale.
Highlight Security Clearance: Since the role requires SC clearance, be sure to mention any existing security clearances you hold or your willingness to obtain one. This shows your understanding of the importance of security in this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Showcase Your DevOps Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with automation tools like Packer, Terraform, and Ansible. Highlight specific projects where you successfully implemented CI/CD pipelines and how they improved deployment efficiency.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
Since the role involves overseeing software release management, share examples of how you've led teams in past projects. Discuss your approach to balancing tech debt while ensuring product functionality aligns with business requirements.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Clear communication is key in this role. Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a straightforward manner. Be ready to explain how you would collaborate with Product and Delivery Managers to meet project goals.
✨Prepare for Security Clearance Questions
Given the security requirements for this position, be ready to discuss your eligibility for SC clearance. Familiarise yourself with the BPSS security clearance process and be honest about your background and residency status.
