Network Engineer, Staffordshire University

Opportunity Review: Network Engineer at University of Staffordshire

The University of Staffordshire is embarking on an exciting and ambitious digital transformation journey, aiming to become the UK's leading Digital University. This presents a unique and compelling opportunity for a talented and experienced Network Engineer to join their dedicated Network & Infrastructure Team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education technology. This review highlights the key advantages and considerations for prospective candidates looking to advance their careers within this innovative environment.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role in Digital Transformation: This position is at the heart of a significant strategic initiative. You will directly contribute to realizing the University's vision of becoming a leading Digital University, impacting the educational experience for students and staff alike.
• Cutting-Edge Technology Exposure: The role offers exposure to modern networking technologies and concepts, including Software Defined Networking (SDN) architecture, intelligent buildings, and automation and programmability. This is an excellent platform to deepen your expertise in these forward-thinking areas.
• Career Growth and Development: The emphasis on research and reporting on new technologies, alongside leading internal projects and contributing to wider university transformation, provides ample opportunities for professional growth and skill development. You'll be at the forefront of technological advancements in a dynamic sector.
• Diverse Project Landscape: You will be involved in a variety of high-impact projects, such as supporting a new student accommodation village, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and managing a robust hardware replacement program. This variety ensures a stimulating and engaging work experience.
• Technical Leadership and Support: The role requires providing technical advice and support across various teams and stakeholders, as well as delivering second and third-line support. This is an ideal opportunity to hone your problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills within a supportive team environment.
• Focus on Performance and Availability: A core aspect of the role is ensuring high levels of performance and service availability across the university's network infrastructure. This commitment to excellence will allow you to apply and refine your best practices in network management.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Technical Depth and Breadth Required: This is a highly technical role demanding proven network engineering experience, with a strong emphasis on Cisco technologies, particularly Software-Defined Access (SDA). Candidates should possess a solid understanding of traditional network topologies (switch stacks) and a willingness to migrate to and manage SDN.
• Strategic Alignment: A keen understanding of how network infrastructure supports broader strategic goals, including the University's 2030 Strategic Plan and its Digital Transformation Strategy, is crucial for success.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: The ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex wired and wireless performance issues, and to manage security policies and firewall protection, will be central to your responsibilities. A proactive and analytical approach is essential.
• Research and Innovation Mindset: The role encourages the research and reporting of new technologies. Candidates who are curious, forward-thinking, and eager to explore innovative solutions will thrive.
• Commitment to Security and Resilience: Maintaining disaster recovery procedures and ensuring the security and availability of critical platforms like the Catalyst Centre are vital. A strong commitment to robust security practices and business continuity is paramount.
• Salary and Benefits: While the role offers significant professional advantages, candidates should review the provided salary range (£33,482 to £38,249 Per Annum) to ensure it aligns with their career and financial aspirations.

This Network Engineer position at the University of Staffordshire offers a remarkable chance for a skilled professional to make a tangible difference in a forward-thinking institution. If you are passionate about networking, eager to contribute to digital innovation, and seek a role with substantial impact and growth potential, this opportunity warrants your serious consideration.