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 wellbeing services.
- 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 problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
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 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.
You will:
- 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
- Software Defined Networking, e.g. VMWare NSX
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
- 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!
Network 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 Network Engineer (L3/L4) in Corsham
✨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 brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the latest trends in network engineering. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to Layer 3 and Layer 4 networking.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you successfully troubleshot network issues or implemented changes. We love hearing about real-world examples!
✨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 who want to make a difference in the defence sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Network Engineer (L3/L4) in Corsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Layer 2/Layer 3 networking and any relevant projects you've worked on. 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. Share specific examples of your problem-solving skills and how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, be sure to mention your experience with firewalls, VPNs, and network monitoring tools. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve used these technologies in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thorn SDS
✨Know Your Networking Basics
Brush up on your Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking concepts, especially routing, switching, and VLANs. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in real-world scenarios, as this will show your practical understanding of the role.
✨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, highlighting your analytical skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ITIL Processes
Since the role involves ITIL-aligned service management, make sure you understand key ITIL principles. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented changes or upgrades in line with these processes in previous roles.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Defence Work
Express your interest in working on a national defence programme. Research the MOD’s current initiatives and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission, demonstrating your commitment to the role and its significance.