Network and Firewall Specialist

Reading, Berkshire
AWE

Information Services and Security have a vital role to play in a crucial national mission. We’re here to enable the organisation to deliver through the use of technology. As AWE transforms itself to meet the needs of the UK’s next-generation nuclear deterrent, we need to adapt to deliver data-driven decision making, flexible and future-proofed IT services, adaptable cyber security, support to a multi-billion Pound building programme, and many more.

The scale might be daunting to some, but you’ll find it stimulating. We’ve got a long journey that we’ve only just started and we’re looking for motivated people who can take us in the right direction. Your role will contribute directly to that shared mission. We won’t deceive you, in some areas we’re starting from a low base, but within ten years this organisation will look very different, and you can help make that happen. This is a role where you’ll contribute to a legacy of national security for decades to come. So come and join us.

AWE’s Live Services team are seeking an experienced, innovative and dedicated Network Engineer to support and maintain AWE’s Firewall and Network Systems. Each day offers a new challenge and learning opportunity.

Location – Reading area – Please note this role is fully site based.

Salary – from £38,350 – £45,000 per annum

As part of our People Promise, AWE (one of the best 25 big companies to work for in the UK) has a range of benefits to suit you. These include:

• Time to recharge your batteries with 270 hours of annual leave (plus every other Friday off work)
• Consideration for flexible working arrangements so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know on your application if you wish to work part time
• Opportunities for Professional Career Development that include funding for the annual membership of a relevant professional body, access to mentors and training
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services
• A generous defined contribution Group Personal Pension (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution)
• Life Assurance
• Discounts – access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending
• Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring for your family
• A host of voluntary & core benefits to suit your health and wellbeing – more information available on our careers site

The Role:

Reporting to the IT Manager, the successful Network Engineer will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of routers, switches and firewalls and the day to day running of multiple networks.

The key tasks will include:

• Design, configure and implementation of network solutions.
• Use of network management tools to investigate, diagnose and resolve network problems within service level agreement tolerances.
• Ensure all network equipment is fit for purpose, configurations are up to date and running the latest stable firmware.
• Understanding project technical requirements and producing low level designs, including network diagrams and configuration build documentation.
• Fulfilment of service requests and resolving incidents.
• Mentoring of less experienced members of the team.
• Support of project work and remote sites will be required.
• Liaise with 3rd party Vendors to resolve issues.

The Candidate: To be considered for this position, we are looking for candidates who have the following skills, qualifications and experience:

• Previous proven engineering experience within a multi-vendor networking environment.
• Working to high personal standards in environment, safety, health, security and quality and be a great team player.
• Good communicator (Written and oral) with sound facilitation skills that can be related to colleagues of all levels including contractors.
• Ability to operate under pressure, meet tight deadlines and influence decisions.
• Good technical investigation and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to produce clear and concise written operating procedures and documentation.
• Maintain technical skills to support latest network hardware/software.
• Experienced with NAC (Network Access Control) solutions.
• Knowledge of protocols, especially OSPF and 802.1X
• Strong ability to think creatively and seek continuous improvement.

Other requirements:

• Willingness to work flexibly and to occasionally work evenings and weekends where exceptional circumstances require it.
• On call roster duties will be required.
• Data Centre experience advantageous.
• Travel to remote sites will be required therefore driving licence is essential.

All Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role.