Principal Fixed Access & Wholesale Network Engineer

This job is with Virgin Media O2, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.

Join our Core Infrastructure Support team, one of the most dynamic and multi‐skilled groups within Operations, where you'll play a pivotal role in delivering expert 3rd Line support across some of Virgin Media O2's most critical platforms. In this high‐impact role, you'll take ownership of our Fixed Access and Wholesale Access technologies, working hands‐on with leading‐edge platforms including XGS‐PON (OLT, CIN, BNG), DOCSIS (CMTS/CCAP), EVPN, and NNIs. This is your chance to work at the heart of the network, solving complex challenges and keeping our services performing at their best.

You'll be part of a highly visible, fast‐moving team that thrives on innovation, bringing fresh ideas, collaborating with specialists across Data Centre, Core, Corporate and ISP Systems Support, and delivering a truly end‐to‐end support experience for our customers and the business. You'll balance critical BAU responsibilities with the excitement of shaping new platforms and services, helping to deliver upgrades and cutting‐edge capabilities that move our network forward. Alongside your technical expertise, you'll also provide guidance and task leadership to junior team members, helping to grow talent and strengthen our Data Support function.

If you want to make a real impact, work with industry‐leading technology, and be part of a team that sets the standard for operational excellence, this is the role for you.

Who we are: The UK's fastest broadband network. The nation's best-loved mobile brand. And, one of the UK's biggest companies too. We put our customers first, making life simpler, smoother, and more joyful. With big ambitions and a brilliant team, we're building a more connected future for everyone.

Our ways of working: We're a flexible-first organisation, because we know people do their best work when they have choice and clarity. To support meaningful collaboration, we ask everyone to spend at least eight days each month connecting in person. That doesn't just mean time in the office; it could be team meetings, offsites, volunteering days, cross-functional projects, or away days - anywhere meaningful collaboration happens. What matters is making those moments purposeful, so when we come together, it really counts.

Accessible, inclusive and equitable for all: Virgin Media O2 is an equal opportunities employer and we're working hard to remove bias and barriers for our people and candidates. So, we build equity and inclusion into everything we do, from the policies we craft to the relationships we shape. We support and encourage you to be your authentic self throughout your application journey with us.

The must haves: In order to be considered, you must have the following experience:

• Extensive experience in supporting carrier / enterprise grade network infrastructure to include Juniper, Nokia, Cisco, and Commscope
• Understanding of XGS-PON technologies
• Fundamental understanding of ISIS, MPLS, SR MPLS, EVPN, IPv6
• In-depth knowledge of underlying network fundamentals not limited to TCP/IP, Routing, Switching and the OSI model
• Process oriented skills for troubleshooting, problem solving and problem resolution
• Ability to lead and communicate during major incidents
• Familiarity with monitoring & OSS tools, and the ability to interpret real-time telemetry, alarms, and trend data to identify patterns

The other stuff we are looking for:

• Understanding of HFC, DOCSIS and CMTS technologies
• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal) and the ability to adapt to technical and non-technical audiences (up to HoD/Director level)
• Experience to cover Juniper JNCIP-SP, Nokia NRS II, Cisco CCNP (R&S, SP, DC)
• Previous experience in a support role in a Tier 1 Service Provider
• Experience contributing to network design reviews or advising architecture teams
• Vendor management and ability to challenge technical recommendations effectively

What's in it for you: Our goal is to celebrate our people, their lives and everything in-between. We aim to create a culture that empowers everyone to bring the best versions of themselves to work each and every day. We believe the most inclusive and diverse culture makes for a better business and a brighter world. Working at Virgin Media O2, you get a bumper reward package bursting with benefits, and loads of extras you can add if you'd like to. These are designed to support both you and your loved ones, making sure that you're covered no matter what life throws your way.

Next steps: If we feel like a place where you can belong, we'd love to learn more about you as a person and your experience to date. When you apply, you'll be asked about any adjustments you might need to support the recruitment process. Let us know, and we'll be sure to discuss it with you. Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert, therefore we may bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you're offered a job with us, it will be conditional, based on the passing of background checks. All roles require a criminal record check and some roles need a financial probity check. Your recruiter can provide you with more information if needed. Thanks for your patience and for showing an interest in joining the Virgin Media O2 family.