## Opportunity Overview: Infrastructure Engineer at Barclays
This Infrastructure Engineer role at Barclays presents a compelling opportunity for seasoned IT professionals looking to make a significant impact within a globally recognized financial institution. Located in Knutsford, this position offers a chance to be at the forefront of building and maintaining the critical infrastructure that underpins Barclays' vast application and data systems.
The core purpose of this role is to ensure the unwavering reliability, scalability, and security of Barclays' IT landscape. This involves expertly managing hardware, software, networks, and cloud computing platforms. Success in this position hinges on applying software engineering techniques, robust automation, and best-in-class incident response to maintain high levels of system availability and performance.
### Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:
For candidates seeking to advance their careers, this role offers several distinct advantages:
- Strategic Impact: You'll be instrumental in shaping and implementing the infrastructure that drives a leading financial services company. This provides a platform for high-visibility contributions and significant career growth.
- Continuous Learning and Development: Barclays fosters a culture of technical excellence. The role encourages staying abreast of industry trends, actively contributing to technology communities, and a commitment to learning and innovation.
- Exposure to Advanced Technologies: The position involves working with a diverse range of technologies, including Windows Server environments, extensive PowerShell scripting, and potentially cloud platforms and modern identity management solutions like Microsoft Entra.
- Focus on Automation: A strong emphasis on automation presents an excellent opportunity to hone and showcase skills in developing efficient, script-driven processes, reducing manual intervention and improving operational effectiveness.
- Career Progression: Whether you aspire to become a subject matter expert or a people leader, Barclays provides a structured environment for career development. The "Vice President Expectations" section clearly outlines pathways for both individual contributors and those with leadership aspirations.
- Risk and Security Focus: A deep engagement with risk management, controls, and security best practices is embedded in the role, offering valuable experience in a highly regulated industry.
### Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:
To maximize your success in this role and guide your career path, consider the following:
- Technical Proficiency: A solid foundation in Active Directory services (Windows 2016/2019/2022) is essential. Advanced PowerShell scripting skills are a must-have. A strong understanding of major Windows component technologies will be crucial for in-depth discussions with subject matter experts.
- Desired Skill Sets: While not always mandatory, experience with Microsoft Entra (including Entra ID, Conditional Access, Identity Protection, PIM) and its governance practices is highly beneficial. Familiarity with Microsoft Defender and tools like Quest Toolset or configuration management (e.g., CHEF) will also be advantageous.
- Broader Skill Application: Beyond technical prowess, Barclays values candidates who demonstrate strength in areas such as risk and controls, change management, business acumen, strategic thinking, and digital transformation. Be prepared to showcase these capabilities.
- Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: The role requires sophisticated analytical thought to define problems, evaluate complex alternatives, and develop innovative solutions. A research-oriented approach to problem-solving will be key.
- Collaboration and Stakeholder Management: The ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams, build trusting relationships, and influence stakeholders through negotiation will be vital for success.
- Alignment with Barclays Values: Candidates are expected to embody Barclays' core values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Stewardship, as well as the Barclays Mindset of Empower, Challenge, and Drive.
This Infrastructure Engineer position at Barclays is an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to solidify their expertise, take on challenging responsibilities, and contribute to the operational excellence of a global financial leader. By focusing on the development of your core technical skills, alongside your broader business and leadership capabilities, you can position yourself for a rewarding and impactful career journey within the organization.