Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our IT team to develop and support critical infrastructure for 16 prisons across Scotland.
- Company: Scottish Prison Service, committed to personal and professional development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, gym access, and discounts at popular retailers.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting infrastructure projects using the latest technologies in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with Azure, Office 365, and hands-on systems administration skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working options and excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 52356 - 55886 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within SPS Headquarters as we recruit for an Infrastructure Specialist to join the Team. The Scottish Prison Service is looking for an Infrastructure Systems Administrator to join our IT team within our Head Office in Edinburgh. As a Microsoft subject matter expert, you will be part of our highly technical team that develops and supports the critical infrastructure that powers our 16 prisons, HQ, College and Central stores. You will take part in exciting infrastructure projects using the latest Windows and virtualisation technologies and deploy leading-edge services across our Scotland-wide estate.
This role has the option of hybrid working, with the department office days being flexible and by agreement with your line manager. This role is primarily based at the Scottish Prison Service Headquarters, Edinburgh but may also include site visits around the SPS Estate.
Responsibilities and Qualifications- Experience/exposure working with Azure product suite (Azure, Microsoft Entra ID, Intune, Defender) and other third-party management tools, database management; managing and installing third-party server applications; experience of enterprise-level backup solutions; experience of Office 365 and cloud solutions.
- Hands-on systems administration experience in the following primary areas: patching, OS deployment, Office 365, Active Directory, PowerShell scripting, Windows Server 2016/2019/2022 (detailed knowledge of OS components and server roles such as DNS, DHCP); Hyper-V.
- Experience in designing, developing and implementing business-critical systems to meet organisational requirements and technology changes.
- Experience of cyber-security solutions and good practice.
- IT knowledge: sound general IT knowledge, including a good understanding of network infrastructures and authentication processes.
- Commitment to your personal and professional development
- Free gym and car parking
- Discounts at high-street stores, supermarkets and restaurants through our partners at Blue Light Card, Edenred and Civil Service Sports Council.
- Sick Pay
- Annual Leave – 37 days rising to 42 days
For information on the job, including the full job description and person specification, and to apply for this vacancy please visit the Scottish Prison Service website: www.sps.gov.uk. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities. Closing date: 19 January 2026.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Information Technology, Public Safety
Infrastructure Specialist employer: Scottish Prison Service
Contact Detail:
Scottish Prison Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Infrastructure Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Scottish Prison Service on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your Azure and Windows Server knowledge. We want to show off our skills, so practice answering technical questions and think of examples from past experiences that highlight our expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase our soft skills! The Infrastructure Specialist role isn’t just about tech; it’s also about teamwork and communication. Be ready to discuss how we’ve collaborated with others in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through the Scottish Prison Service website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our application to match their specific needs and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Infrastructure Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Infrastructure Specialist role. Highlight your experience with Azure, Office 365, and any relevant systems administration skills. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with what we're looking for!
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 skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and make it personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you've worked on any exciting infrastructure projects or have hands-on experience with technologies like Hyper-V or PowerShell, be sure to mention them. We’re keen to know about your practical experience and how it aligns with our needs.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through the Scottish Prison Service website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
As an Infrastructure Specialist, you'll need to showcase your expertise in Azure, Windows Server, and other technologies mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your knowledge of these systems and be ready to discuss specific projects or experiences where you've successfully implemented or managed them.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to tackle hypothetical scenarios during the interview. Think about challenges you’ve faced in previous roles, especially related to infrastructure management or cyber-security. Be ready to explain how you approached these problems and what solutions you implemented.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Continuous Learning
The Scottish Prison Service values personal and professional development. Share examples of how you've pursued further training or certifications in IT. This could include online courses, workshops, or self-study that relate to the latest technologies and best practices in infrastructure management.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, upcoming infrastructure projects, or how they approach hybrid working. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.