Wi-fi Campus Architect (outside Ir35)

Summary: The Wi-Fi Campus Architect role involves designing and delivering a next-generation wireless network infrastructure for a global financial services organization. The ideal candidate will be a Wi-Fi Subject Matter Expert (SME) with extensive knowledge of Cisco technologies. This position requires a strong focus on architecture, implementation, security, and collaboration within a remote working environment. The role is classified as outside IR35, indicating a favorable tax status for contractors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop high-level and detailed wireless architecture for large-scale enterprise environments.
• Design WiFi solutions using Cisco technologies (Catalyst, Meraki, DNA Centre, Prime Infrastructure).
• Conduct RF site surveys and spectrum analysis (Ekahau/Acrylic/Airmagnet).
• Ensure designs support scalability, security, performance, and business continuity.
• Lead end-to-end implementation of WiFi networks, including configuration and deployment.
• Optimise network performance by tuning, monitoring, and implementing proactive capacity planning.
• Troubleshoot complex wireless issues using Cisco tools and protocols (e.g., RRM, CleanAir, WLC).
• Enforce wireless security policies, 802.1X authentication, and secure onboarding.
• Ensure compliance with internal and external security standards (e.g., PCI DSS, ISO 27001).
• Collaborate with network, security, and infrastructure teams.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation, including designs, runbooks, and standards.
• Provide training and knowledge transfer to junior engineers and support teams.
• Stay updated on Cisco wireless product roadmap and industry trends.
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement of wireless services.

Key Skills:

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Wireless or Enterprise Wireless (Active).
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of experience in wireless networking with at least 5 years focused on Cisco wireless solutions.
• Expert knowledge of Cisco WLCs, APs, DNA Centre, and Prime Infrastructure.
• Proficient in WiFi standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax), RF fundamentals, and WLAN security.
• Experience with RADIUS, DHCP, DNS, AAA, and Identity Services Engine (ISE).
• Hands-on with wireless monitoring and planning tools (e.g., Ekahau, AirMagnet).
• Cisco Certified Specialist - Enterprise Wireless Design (preferred).
• Experience with SD-Access and WiFi 6/6E (preferred).
• Familiarity with cloud-managed wireless (Cisco Meraki) (preferred).
• Knowledge of automation/scripting (Python, Ansible) is a plus (preferred).

Salary (Rate): £600 per day

City: undetermined

Country: United Kingdom

Working Arrangements: remote

IR35 Status: outside IR35

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: IT