Senior Network Specialist

The University Information Services (UIS) has two permanent full-time Grade 8 positions for Senior Network Specialists in the Network Systems Team. Under the guidance of the Senior Engineering Lead (Underlay Networks), and working within a highly supportive and collaborative team of ten, you will be jointly responsible for designing, building, operating and supporting:

• The University's internet connections to its supplier, Janet.
• The University Data Network (UDN), our backbone network.
• The Data Centre Network (DCN).
• Multiple customer networks.

The broad spectrum of activities include:

• Managing multiple network delivery projects, co-ordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Input into designing and developing various interconnected multi-vendor networks using Cisco, Aruba and Fortinet equipment.
• Monitoring the network to detect and resolve operational issues acting as third line support to resolve escalated issues.
• Timely response to customer service requests, such as standard network (switch and routing) changes and updates to the University DNS (acting, jointly, as University Hostmaster).

You should have the following skills and experience:

• Demonstrable evidence of working in a dynamic IT environment, managing technical activities and tasks, delivering complex networking projects and configuring network devices such as switches, routers and firewalls.
• Expert knowledge of IT networking, specifically advanced switching and routing technologies and concepts, preferably to CCNA level (certification desirable but not required) layer 2 and 3 protocols, such as VLANs, Ethernet, ARP, LLDP, DHCP, DNS, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, you should understand how they are configured and how to troubleshoot. A complete understanding of IP subnetting is essential (IPv4 and IPv6).
• Evidence of developing and applying an understanding of a new technology to design network solutions and services that meet business objectives.
• Evidence of effectively sharing technical knowledge and skills to support the development and learning of colleagues, through knowledge exchange, specialist advice and consultancy.
• Ability to build relationships with colleagues and customers at all levels of the organisation. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and able to use your own initiative.

The team has many exciting projects over the coming years, such as overhauling the Janet connection for increased bandwidth and security, making use of Software Defined Networking and exploring dynamic Network Access Control (NAC).

You should have either a degree, Level 6 vocational qualification, industry standard certification or be able to demonstrate an equivalent level of experience.

The role offers exposure to true enterprise-level network technologies and concepts at scale, meaning you will be at the forefront of shaping the University's networks. We highly encourage staff development, if you always wanted a CCNA or develop towards CCNP this role is for you. You'll be offered ample training and learning opportunities, you are strongly encouraged to apply regardless of meeting all criteria listed.

The University is supportive of hybrid working, where some work is undertaken on University premises and some in a remote working environment.  The aim of our approach is to enable as many staff as possible to work in a hybrid way if they wish and where their role allows.

We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department/institution/Faculty/School/University.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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