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- Tasks: Support and optimise IT applications for a national defence programme.
- Company: Join a leading organisation transforming UK Defence IT services.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, pension contributions, health cashback, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Work on-site at Corsham and gain valuable experience in complex IT environments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mission-critical applications in secure environments.
- Qualifications: Experience in applications support at Level 3 or 4 with strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a skilled Applications Engineer looking to support a nationally significant UK Defence programme? This is a unique opportunity to join a high-impact programme delivering next-generation deployable IT services to support operations both in the UK and overseas.
About the Programme
The programme is transforming the MOD’s deployable IT capability across Land and Maritime domains. It is replacing legacy CIS services with a modern, secure, and resilient in-house solution designed to meet the demands of frontline operations. A core element of this transformation is the delivery of robust Through Life Support (TLS) services—ensuring systems remain operational, secure, and fully supported in dynamic and often challenging environments.
The Role
As a Level 3 or 4 Applications Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting, maintaining, and optimising the suite of deployed IT applications used across the programme. You will work closely with Service Desk, Resolver Groups, and other engineering teams to ensure applications perform reliably in operational contexts.
Responsibilities
- Provide Level 3 or Level 4 support for deployed applications, including troubleshooting, configuration, and optimisation
- Ensure application performance, availability, and security in line with MOD and programme standards
- Work with resolver groups and Level 4 engineers for escalated incidents and complex issues
- Deploy updates, patches, and enhancements across operational environments
- Collaborate with developers and system engineers to implement fixes and enhancements
- Participate in testing, validation, and release of software changes
- Document application support procedures, configurations, and known issues
- Ensure compliance with ITIL-aligned service management processes
Level distinction:
- Level 3: Focuses on operational support, troubleshooting, and routine deployments
- Level 4: Leads complex problem resolution, escalations, and process improvements
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in applications support or engineering at SFIA Level 3 or Level 4
- Strong knowledge of enterprise or mission-critical applications
- Experience with application troubleshooting, patching, and optimisation
- Understanding of ITIL service management and incident management processes
- Experience in secure or regulated environments, ideally defence/MOD
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to work on-site at Corsham full-time
Important Note
Due to the nature of this work, candidates must be eligible for appropriate UK security clearance. All applicants must hold the Right to Work in the UK and already possess, or be eligible to obtain, a high level of National Security Clearance. Due to the nature of our business, your nationality, previous nationalities, and country of birth may influence the types of roles for which you are eligible.
Why Join?
- Work on a mission-critical national defence programme
- Support mission-critical applications used in operational theatre
- Opportunity to develop skills in highly secure, complex IT environments
- 25 days Annual Leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Employer Pension Contributions
- Group Life Insurance
- Dental & Health Cashback Plan
- Wellbeing Services (includes GP, Physio and Savings Benefits)
- Thorn Wellbeing Support Contribution
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Supported Training & Personal Development Opportunities
Apply
If you have the expertise to support this requirement and are eager to make an impact in a critical role, please apply today!
Applications Engineer (L3/L4) employer: Thorn SDS Ltd
Contact Detail:
Thorn SDS Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Applications Engineer (L3/L4)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees in similar roles or connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the specific applications used in defence. We want to show that we’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Share examples of how we’ve tackled complex issues in the past, especially in high-pressure environments. It’s all about demonstrating our value!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Applications Engineer (L3/L4)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Applications Engineer role. Highlight your experience with applications support, troubleshooting, and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in a defence or regulated environment.
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 background aligns with the MOD's mission. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of ITIL processes and your problem-solving skills.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, be specific about your previous roles and responsibilities. Mention any experience you have with Level 3 or Level 4 support, and how you've contributed to application performance and security in past positions.
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 regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorn SDS Ltd
✨Know Your Applications Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the applications you'll be supporting. Brush up on troubleshooting techniques, configuration settings, and optimisation strategies. Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it in real-world scenarios.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ITIL Processes
Since the role involves compliance with ITIL-aligned service management processes, it's crucial to understand these frameworks. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied ITIL principles in previous roles, especially in incident management and service delivery. This will demonstrate your ability to fit into their operational model seamlessly.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that assess your problem-solving skills and knowledge of enterprise applications. Practice articulating your thought process when troubleshooting complex issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing your analytical skills and how you approach challenges.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Defence Applications
Express genuine interest in working on mission-critical applications within the defence sector. Research the specific programme and its impact on UK operations. Showing that you understand the significance of the work and are passionate about contributing to national security will set you apart from other candidates.