Lead Network Architect

On behalf of The Home Office, we are looking for a Lead Network Architect (Inside IR35) for a 6 month hybrid contract based 2 days per week in North London. SC Clearance is an essential requirement for this role, as a minimum you must be willing & eligible to undergo checks. Please note, due to the exceptional requirements of this position (short-term nature of this role and speed at which we require a postholder in situ) preference may be given to candidates who meet all of the essential criteria and hold active security clearance.

You will primarily be engaged in the DRS Exit Project and other supportive roles in various other projects/demands within N&I and Policing. The DRS Exit Project is a critical policing data centre decommissioning programme that involves migrating the managed policing DR data centre to the new Data Centre. This project requires meticulous coordination with various technical teams in N&I, PPPT, stakeholders, and suppliers, with the N&I network engineering team being a key part of the transition process. There is a main tiger team and multiple sub tiger teams focusing on the DRS transition and Network Engineering is part of the tiger group.

You will lead the DRS Exit Project on behalf of the N&I Engineering Team and collaborate closely with the delivery partner, as well as other policing technical teams in N&I and PPPT. As the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the transition programme, the architect will oversee technical aspects, ensuring swift completion of tasks, addressing challenges, blockers, and dependencies. Overall, the role of the Network Architect encompasses leading the DRS Exit Project, collaborating with multiple stakeholders, addressing technical challenges, and contributing to various network engineering initiatives.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Networking Fundamentals & Architecture
• Deep understanding of TCP/IP, OSI model, subnetting, and routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, EIGRP).
• Extensive experience in LAN/WAN design, implementation, and troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to design scalable, resilient, and secure network architectures.
• Skilled in developing network strategies, blueprints, and roadmaps aligned with business goals.
• Experience with hybrid and multi-cloud networking solutions.
• Firewall & Security Technologies
• Proficiency in firewall technologies: Cisco ASA, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Juniper, Check Point.
• Experience designing and implementing firewall policies, NAT, VPNs (IPsec, SSL, client VPN), and security zones.
• Governance, Compliance & Security
• Strong grasp of network governance, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience developing and enforcing network policies, standards, and procedures.
• Proficient in conducting network security assessments and audits.
• Expertise in network security principles and best practices.
• Skilled in implementing LAN/WAN security measures including firewalls, ACLs, and VPNs.
• Ability to define and implement robust network security architectures.
• Change Management & Compliance
• Experience establishing governance processes and change control procedures.
• Skilled in ensuring network compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Ability to develop and enforce network compliance frameworks.
• Vendor & Stakeholder Management
• Experience managing relationships with vendors, service providers, and third-party suppliers.
• Skilled in evaluating solutions, negotiating contracts, and overseeing vendor performance.
• Certifications
• Certifications such as CCIE, CCDE, JNCIE, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, the Home Office guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

The Home Office guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates / military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".