Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a vital UK Defence programme by managing advanced network infrastructure.
- Company: Join a leading organisation transforming MOD’s deployable IT capabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension contributions, and health cashback plans.
- Other info: Full-time on-site role with excellent training and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your tech skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in enterprise networks and strong knowledge of Layer 2/3 networking.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About the Programme
Are you a skilled Network 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. This 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 Network Engineer, you will provide advanced technical support and operational management for all network infrastructure components. You will work closely with Service Desk, Resolver Groups, and Level 4 engineers to maintain secure, reliable, and high-performance networks.
- Provide Level 3 support for network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, and deployed operational networks
- Troubleshoot and resolve incidents across Layer 3 (network connectivity, routing, switching) and Layer 4 (applications and services running on the network)
- Manage, configure, and maintain network devices such as switches, routers, firewalls, and VPNs
- Support network monitoring, performance tuning, and capacity planning
- Implement network changes, upgrades, and patching in line with ITIL processes and programme policies
- Collaborate with Level 4 engineers and cross-functional teams for escalated incidents or complex projects
- Ensure network security and compliance with MOD policies and standards
- Support operational deployments for both on-premises and deployed environments
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience at SFIA Level 3 in enterprise or operational network environments
- Strong knowledge of:
- Layer 2/Layer 3 networking (routing, switching, VLANs)
- Firewalls, VPNs, and secure network connectivity
- Monitoring, performance tuning, and troubleshooting network infrastructure
- L4 application dependencies and their interaction with network performance
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
- Maintain and optimise advanced network infrastructure supporting deployed operations
- Opportunity to develop skills in highly secure, complex IT environments
Benefits
- 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!
Network 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 Network Engineer (L3/L4)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend events, join online forums, and connect with people on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common technical questions related to network engineering. We recommend setting up mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with the process.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through practical demonstrations. If you’ve worked on any projects or have a portfolio, bring it along to interviews. We love seeing real-world applications of your expertise!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals ready to make an impact in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Network Engineer (L3/L4)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Layer 2/Layer 3 networking and any relevant ITIL processes. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about supporting the MOD’s deployable IT capability. Let us know how your background makes you a perfect fit for this mission-critical programme.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, highlight specific examples where you've tackled complex network issues. We love seeing how you approach challenges, especially in secure or regulated environments like defence.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorn SDS Ltd
✨Know Your Networking Basics
Brush up on your Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking concepts, especially routing and switching. Be ready to discuss how you've managed network devices like switches and routers in past roles, as this will show your hands-on experience.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've troubleshot network issues in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on incidents related to Layer 3 connectivity or Layer 4 application dependencies.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ITIL Processes
Since the role involves implementing changes in line with ITIL processes, make sure you understand these principles. Be ready to discuss how you've applied ITIL in previous positions, particularly in managing network changes and ensuring compliance.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Defence Work
Express your interest in working within a defence-related environment. Research the MOD’s current initiatives and be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission-critical programmes, highlighting your commitment to security and operational excellence.