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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and optimise IT applications for a vital UK Defence programme.
- Company: Join a leading organisation transforming MOD's deployable IT capabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, pension contributions, and wellbeing services.
- Other info: Full-time on-site role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in applications support and knowledge of defence systems required.
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.
You will:
- 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 used in UK Defence, especially MOTS or NATO
- 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
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) in Corsham employer: Thorn SDS
Contact Detail:
Thorn SDS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Applications Engineer (L3/L4) in Corsham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees in similar roles or departments on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the MOD's IT landscape. Show them you know your stuff and are ready to tackle real-world challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on your qualifications; highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've tackled complex issues in the past. They want to see how you think on your feet!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Applications Engineer (L3/L4) in Corsham
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, especially in defence or regulated environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving abilities. Give examples of how you've tackled complex issues in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. This will help us see your potential impact on our mission-critical programme.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website: Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorn SDS
✨Know Your Applications Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the applications you'll be supporting. Brush up on their functionalities, common issues, and troubleshooting techniques. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ITIL Processes
Since the role involves compliance with ITIL-aligned service management processes, it’s crucial to understand these concepts. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied ITIL principles in past roles, especially in incident management and service delivery.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples from your previous experience where you successfully resolved complex issues or optimised application performance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Applications Engineer, you'll need to collaborate with various teams. Highlight your communication skills during the interview by discussing how you've effectively worked with developers, service desks, and resolver groups in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.