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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 60000 - 75000 £ 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)
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 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry meetups, conferences, or even local tech events. It's a great way to connect with potential employers and other engineers who might know about openings that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those involving enterprise hardware and network design. This can really set you apart when you're chatting with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and interests. Use our website to find roles that excite you, and tailor your approach to each one. It shows you care!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical questions related to fault-tolerant networking and datacentre management. Practise explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key in collaborative environments.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Network Engineer
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. Let us know why you're excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to our Defence transformation programme.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: Don’t hold back on your technical skills! Detail your experience with fault-tolerant networking solutions and any infrastructure automation tools you've used, like Ansible or Terraform. We love seeing candidates who can drive technical delivery!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of 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 Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific technologies mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your knowledge of COTS networking, enterprise hardware, and fault-tolerant solutions. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you can lead discussions around them.
✨Prepare Real-World Examples
Think of concrete examples from your past experiences where you’ve designed or deployed network solutions. Be ready to explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for this role.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the Defence transformation programme and its significance. Knowing how your role as a Lead Network Engineer fits into the larger goals of the organisation will help you articulate your potential impact during the interview. It shows you’re not just looking for a job, but that you’re invested in the mission.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the technologies they use, and the challenges they face. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture aligns with your values. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with your interviewers!
