Senior Network Engineer

STFC - The Science and Technology Facilities Council - National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC)

Location: Harwell Science and Innovation Campus

Salary: £51,242 pro rata where applicable

Hours: Full Time, Part Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Placed On: 15th September 2025

Closes: 5th October 2025

Job Ref: 1440

Hours: Full time or Part time (minimum 0.8FTE). We understand the importance of work-life balance, and offer flexible working, but do require at least 3 days a week on-site.

Due to the requirement of obtaining an enhanced security clearance for this role, we are only able to accept applications from persons who have been resident in the UK for the last 5 years.

About the NQCC: The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is the UK’s national laboratory dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of quantum computing. Headquartered at the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, the NQCC works across government, industry, and academia to address the engineering challenges of scaling quantum computers and to build a quantum-ready economy. Its mission is to enable the UK to solve complex societal and industrial challenges by harnessing the transformative potential of quantum computing.

Our Benefits: Our Benefits include a flexible working scheme (subject to business requirements), Defined benefit pension scheme and 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and several other benefits.

About the Role: You will be working alongside scientists, engineers, developers, and experts in quantum technologies, working to enhance the UK's quantum computing capabilities. The NQCC oversees diverse projects for classical and quantum technologies, aiding quantum computer development in our labs. This involves intricate software, high-performance computing, security, and collaborations. We seek a candidate to optimise network infrastructure and systems, ensuring performance, security, and adherence to best practices. This role requires network expertise, security awareness, and a commitment to staying current. The candidate will manage the NQCC network, serving various IT systems whilst collaborating with multiple teams.

Key Responsibilities: Managing NQCC's networking infrastructure, you will ensure stable service while aligning with security policies. Leading networking projects, you will coordinate resources and maintain cyber, network, and data security across all stages. Your role involves advising stakeholders on networking advancements, managing projects within NQCC's framework, and procuring and implementing new technology for operational enhancement. You will work with cross-functional teams, maintain thorough technical documentation, and generate accurate network service reports. Collaboration with the benefits and evaluation team will be crucial for project success, as you promote positive change and continuous improvement throughout the process.

Person Specification: Prior knowledge of quantum computing is not required to apply for this role. We offer significant development and training opportunities.

Essential: Experience in managing complex network infrastructures. Proficiency in LAN, WAN, VLANs, routing, and switching protocols. Familiarity with network monitoring and optimization. Analytical mindset for efficient issue resolution, especially under pressure. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work collaboratively. Evidence of a strong, practical understanding of cyber-security, testing tools, authentication, encryption, and cloud services. Strong grasp of network security principles, firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, and encryption. Experience in Linux networking. Proficiency in Python, Bash, or PowerShell. Able to occasionally travel/work within the UK and overseas when required.

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.