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- Tasks: Design and deploy high-security, multi-site networking solutions for a major Defence programme.
- Company: Join a leading Defence organisation with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, generous leave, private medical, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on complex systems that matter to national security.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in network management and expertise in fault-tolerant solutions.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a Lead Network Engineer looking for your next challenge? We are delivering a major Defence transformation programme in the Hertfordshire area, centred on the design and delivery of a high-security, multi-site platform that goes far beyond the scope of a traditional corporate desktop service. We are seeking a Lead Network Engineer who will do more than simply “run networks”. You will take ownership of designing and deploying the physical networking backbone that underpins a complex, multi-site environment, playing a central role in shaping how the platform operates at scale. You will drive technical delivery, working hands-on with enterprise-grade hardware while providing technical leadership within a highly collaborative and supportive team. This role offers genuine influence, long-term impact, and exposure to complex, nationally significant systems that few organisations can provide. For engineers motivated by purpose, scale, and complexity, it is a rare opportunity to see your technical leadership directly contribute to outcomes that truly matter.
What you'll be doing:
- Designing and deploying multi-site enterprise hardware platforms using COTS networking.
- Creating datacentre layouts, rack configurations and cabling schematics.
- Specifying and managing hardware components across the delivery lifecycle.
- Documenting low-level designs, procedures and disaster recovery instructions.
- Acting as the go-to expert for hardware and datacentre-related matters.
- Supporting hardware implementation and integration within secure environments.
What you’ll bring:
- Strong hands-on experience managing and configuring network platforms.
- Expertise in fault-tolerant networking solutions.
- Solid understanding of enterprise hardware installation and resilient design principles.
- Proficiency in networking across multi-technology solutions.
- Knowledge of networking in Windows Server/Client and virtual environments.
It would be great if you had:
- Cisco certifications.
- Hold an active DV (Developed Vetting).
- Experience with infrastructure automation tools such as Ansible and Terraform.
- Understanding of datacentre power and cooling requirements.
- Familiarity with secure environments and regulations (JSP 440, JSP 604, SCIDA).
- Experience with monitoring tools like SCOM and Splunk Enterprise.
If you’re interested in this role but not sure if your skills and experience are exactly what we’re looking for, please do apply, we’d love to hear from you!
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Location: Hertfordshire
Security Clearance Level: DV (Developed Vetting)
Internal Recruiter: Josh
Salary: £60,000 to £75,000
Benefits: £5,400 car allowance, 25 days annual leave with the option to buy additional days, private medical, life assurance, pension, and generous flexible benefits fund.
Lead Network Engineer in England employer: Sopra Steria Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sopra Steria Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Network Engineer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend meetups, conferences, or online webinars related to network engineering. This is a great way to make connections and learn about job openings that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in practical ways! Consider creating a portfolio showcasing your past projects or contributions to open-source networking solutions. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your hands-on skills. Practice configuring network platforms and troubleshooting common issues. Being able to demonstrate your expertise in real-time can make a huge difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to apply through our website! Even if you’re unsure about meeting all the requirements, we encourage you to throw your hat in the ring. We value potential and passion just as much as experience!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Network Engineer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Lead Network Engineer role. Highlight your hands-on experience with network platforms and any relevant certifications, like Cisco. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for designing and deploying enterprise hardware platforms and how you can contribute to our Defence transformation programme. Let us know why you're the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: In your application, don’t shy away from detailing your experience with fault-tolerant networking solutions and datacentre layouts. We’re looking for someone who can take ownership and lead technical delivery, so make that clear!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sopra Steria Ltd
✨Know Your Networking Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of enterprise hardware and fault-tolerant networking solutions. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've designed or deployed multi-site platforms, as this will show your hands-on experience and technical expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Network Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team. Prepare examples of how you've provided technical leadership in previous roles, especially in collaborative environments. Highlight any instances where your decisions had a significant impact on project outcomes.
✨Get Familiar with the Security Requirements
Since this role involves working in secure environments, make sure you understand relevant regulations like JSP 440 and JSP 604. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated security protocols in past projects, as this will show you're ready for the challenges of this position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's defence transformation programme and how they envision the Lead Network Engineer's role evolving. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
