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- Tasks: Support and develop cutting-edge scientific networks for high-volume data collection and analysis.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, the UK's leading synchrotron facility driving world-class scientific research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days leave, flexible hours, a pension scheme, and on-site amenities like cafes and sports facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of a team at the forefront of science, tackling exciting technical challenges in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in computing/science or equivalent experience; network administration skills required.
- Other info: Relocation allowance available; early applications encouraged as interviews may occur before the closing date.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
About Us
Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron; a huge scientific facility designed to produce very intense beams of X-rays, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Our scientists use the light to study a vast range of subject matter, from new medicines and treatments for disease to innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology. World class science requires world class computing infrastructure. Our Scientific Computing team provides computing network and storage systems that keep Diamond and its scientists at the forefront of scientific research.
About the Role
We now have an excellent opportunity for a Senior Network Engineer within Diamond’s Scientific Computing team to support and develop the scientific and controls networks used for cutting edge science. High bandwidth ethernet forms the basis of all the critical networks within Diamond alongside more specialist low latency fabrics. These enable rapid and high-volume data collection, and analysis from state-of-the-art detector systems with challenging connectivity demands. The Scientific Computing group is responsible for the scientific and control infrastructure used for the collection, analysis, and storage of experimental data. The technical demands are varied and challenging with data streaming from detector systems at high rates and volumes, and users requiring very fast feedback of their results. There is also an increasing demand to move large volumes of data across Janet, a high bandwidth WAN which interconnects academic and research institutes across the UK. This role will provide expertise and leadership for the development of the scientific and controls networks for Diamond II to provide the strongest foundation for next generation scientific research. You will work alongside other specialists in computing and storage and contribute to the development and maintenance of all of the Scientific Computing infrastructure as a whole.
About You
You will hold a degree level qualification in a computing or science subject or demonstrate equivalent experience. You will need to demonstrate experience of:
- Network administration of medium to large sized networks
- Experience of different network systems, e.g. Cisco, Extreme, Avaya, Nvidia
- Experience and knowledge of 1/10/25/40/100Gb ethernet
- Understanding the requirements of HPC
- Common network protocols such as PXE, DHCP, DNS, CIFS and NFS
- Knowledge of low latency network technology such as Infiniband would be useful
- Experience of configuration management systems such as Ansible or Puppet would be useful
Lack of experience in any of the above will not rule you out of consideration as long as you can demonstrate the ability to assimilate complex technology. You will also demonstrate good interpersonal, communication and presentational skills in order to interact with staff and facility users at all levels.
Benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. The closing date for applications is 25th May 2025, however, we encourage early applications as some candidates may be interviewed before this date.
Senior Network Engineer employer: Squeaky Wheel Promotions
Contact Detail:
Squeaky Wheel Promotions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Network Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific network systems mentioned in the job description, such as Cisco and Extreme. Having hands-on experience or even just a solid understanding of these systems can set you apart during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of high bandwidth ethernet and low latency technologies like Infiniband. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your technical expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your problem-solving skills by thinking of examples where you've successfully managed complex network issues. This will help you illustrate your ability to handle the challenges outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Diamond Light Source if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Network Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements for the Senior Network Engineer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When writing your CV and cover letter, focus on your experience with network administration, particularly in medium to large networks. Mention any familiarity with systems like Cisco, Extreme, or Avaya, and detail your knowledge of high bandwidth ethernet and low latency technologies.
Showcase Technical Skills: Make sure to include any technical skills that are relevant to the role, such as understanding common network protocols (PXE, DHCP, DNS, etc.) and experience with configuration management systems like Ansible or Puppet. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the technical demands of the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about working at Diamond Light Source and how you can contribute to their Scientific Computing team. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at Squeaky Wheel Promotions
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with network administration and the specific systems mentioned in the job description, such as Cisco and Extreme. Highlight any relevant projects where you successfully managed medium to large-sized networks.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions that assess your ability to troubleshoot network issues. Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you resolved them, particularly in high-bandwidth or low-latency environments.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since good interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. This will help you connect with interviewers who may not have a technical background.
✨Research Diamond Light Source
Familiarise yourself with the work and mission of Diamond Light Source. Understanding their scientific goals and how your role as a Senior Network Engineer contributes to cutting-edge research will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
