At a Glance
- Tasks: Design complex IT projects for top UK schools and colleges.
- Company: Fast-growing MSP with a focus on education and a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Up to £80,000 salary, hybrid working, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a team of 200+ tech experts and enjoy a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the education sector with innovative IT solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Solution Architect or senior Project Engineer with HLD/LLD skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
I'm working with a well-established, fast-growing MSP that specialises in delivering IT services into the education sector - some of the UK's most recognised independent schools, colleges and academies. They're expanding their technical leadership team and looking for a Solution Architect to own the design of complex IT projects across their client base.
If you love the design side of the job - the part where you take a messy brief, walk a site, talk to the people who'll actually use it, and turn it into a design that's elegant on paper and bulletproof in delivery - this is the one.
What you'll be doing:
- Owning the technical design of complex infrastructure, cloud, network and security projects.
- Producing High-Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs) that engineering teams can build to with confidence.
- Partnering with Account Managers and Project Managers on scoping, proposals, and statements of work.
- Acting as the technical authority in client meetings - building trust with IT Directors, Bursars and Heads.
- Providing design governance and mentoring Project Engineers as they grow.
- Building out reusable reference architectures and education-sector design standards.
What we're looking for:
- A proven Solution Architect, Principal Engineer or senior Project Engineer with real HLD/LLD experience.
- MSP background strongly preferred - you understand the rhythm of project-led delivery across multiple clients.
- Deep Microsoft stack: M365, Azure, Entra ID, Intune, Windows Server, AD, Exchange.
- Strong virtualisation (Hyper-V / VMware) and networking (VLANs, firewalls, wireless).
- Solid grounding in cyber security, backup, and BC/DR design.
- Excellent technical writing - your documents are the deliverable.
- Education-sector experience is a real plus, but strong MSP architects from complex multi-site SME environments will absolutely be considered.
Why this one:
- Part of a larger group - 200+ technologists across multiple UK and Ireland offices.
- Microsoft Solutions Partner with strong vendor relationships.
- 15+ years specialising in education - working with the country's most respected schools.
- Growing fast, investing heavily, and genuinely people-first.
- Hybrid working, real progression, and a culture where good work gets recognised.
Interested? Drop me a DM or send your CV across for a confidential chat - happy to share more detail on the business once we're talking.
Solution Architect in Guildford employer: Nextech Group Limited
Join a dynamic and rapidly expanding Managed Service Provider that prioritises a people-first culture, offering you the chance to lead innovative IT projects within the education sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, hybrid working options, and recognition for your contributions, this role as a Solution Architect provides an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact while collaborating with some of the UK's most prestigious educational institutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT managed services sector, especially those in education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your design skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, bring along examples of your High-Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs). This will demonstrate your expertise and give them confidence in your abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for technical discussions! Brush up on your knowledge of the Microsoft stack and other relevant technologies. Being able to speak confidently about your experience with Azure, Intune, and networking will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. It’s a great way to show your enthusiasm and ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Solution Architect. Highlight your experience with HLDs and LLDs, and don’t forget to mention your MSP background if you have it. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about the education sector and how your design skills can make a difference. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Technical Writing Skills:Since excellent technical writing is key for this role, include examples of your documentation in your application. Whether it’s HLDs, LLDs, or project proposals, we want to see that you can communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nextech Group Limited
✨Know Your Designs Inside Out
As a Solution Architect, you'll need to showcase your expertise in High-Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs). Make sure you can discuss your previous projects in detail, explaining how you approached the design process and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your technical authority and help build trust with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and needs of the education sector. Research the latest trends in IT services for schools and colleges, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these. Showing that you understand the unique environment of your potential clients will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Showcase Your MSP Experience
Highlight your background in Managed Service Providers (MSPs) during the interview. Be ready to talk about how you've successfully managed multiple client projects and the rhythm of project-led delivery. This will reassure the interviewers that you can handle the complexities of their client base.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Your technical writing skills are crucial, but so is your verbal communication. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to engage with IT Directors and non-technical stakeholders. Clear communication will help you convey your ideas effectively and demonstrate your ability to mentor others.
