Network Engineer

Network Engineer

• £53,688 + Package. + On call rates.
• 3 days a week* - Hybrid Stafford.
• Must live 1 hour from Stafford due to On call/standby rota

The Digital, Data, and Technology department at Staffordshire Police is driving the future of policing through innovative digital solutions. Within this dynamic environment, the Network and Communications team is seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer to ensure the seamless, secure, and high-performing operation of our critical network infrastructure.

About the Role:

As a Network Engineer, you will play a vital role in managing the security, capability, availability, and performance of the Force’s network and firewall infrastructure. You will be responsible for configuration, availability, capacity, continuity, and release management, adhering to ITIL best practices. This includes proactive incident management, meticulous documentation, and strict adherence to security regulations and policies, collaborating closely with the Cyber Engineer. You will optimise network performance, implement resilient designs, and ensure robust checks and controls within our live operational environments. Furthermore, you will provide expert advice to senior colleagues, contribute to strategic planning, and mentor junior engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the Force’s network and firewall infrastructure, ensuring security, capability, availability, and performance.
• Oversee configuration, availability, capacity, continuity, and release management in accordance with ITIL framework.
• Manage network incidents and service requests, optimising resource allocation.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation for all application and firmware releases.
• Enforce security regulations and policies, collaborating with the Cyber Engineer.
• Maximise network infrastructure performance through intelligent configuration.
• Plan and implement resilient network designs, mitigating outage risks.
• Implement robust checks and controls to protect live operational environments.
• Monitor network performance and load balancing for optimal service quality.
• Provide expert advice to senior colleagues, informing strategic decisions.
• Adhere to change management procedures for upgrades and modifications.
• Manage third-party supplier performance to ensure service standards are met.
• Collaborate with the architecture team on infrastructure strategy.
• Contribute to technical roadmaps and strategy, supporting senior colleagues.
• Share information and best practices with internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide matrix management where required.
• Monitor and report on health and safety issues.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Cisco CCNP or equivalent qualification.
• Extensive experience as a 3rd line Network Engineer.
• Proficiency in multi-vendor switch, router, Wi-Fi, and firewall implementation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Deep understanding of routing protocols (e.g., OSPF, BGP).
• Experience with Nexus ACI and Juniper platforms.
• Experience with load balancers, remote access, IPSec, and s2s VPNs.
• Proficiency with network protocol analysers.
• Knowledge of Cisco ISE, Cloud/365, SD-WAN, and Secure Web Gateway principles.
• Solid understanding of network design, security, and ITIL principles.
• Familiarity with physical and virtual server and storage infrastructure.

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a critical public service. If you possess the technical expertise and dedication to excellence, we encourage you to apply.