Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior On Premise Platform Engineer to join our NHS IT team, playing a critical role in supporting the technology infrastructure that powers essential healthcare services. As a Server Engineer, you will ensure the smooth operation, security & scalability of the server environments that underpin our healthcare systems, enabling clinical staff to deliver high-quality patient care. You will be responsible for the installation, configuration & maintenance of both physical and virtual servers, ensuring optimal performance and availability. You will manage server security, perform system upgrades, and troubleshoot any issues that arise, ensuring minimal downtime. Additionally, you will work closely with IT teams across the NHS to implement best practices, support data security, and contribute to disaster recovery planning. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing Windows and Linux server environments, virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V), and backup solutions. Familiarity with healthcare IT systems, compliance requirements, and the unique challenges of supporting a 24/7 critical infrastructure is highly desirable.
Main duties of the job
1. Assist in the design, deployment, and maintenance of on-premises server and platform environments across NCA sites, including the installation of physical and virtual servers, storage systems, databases, middleware components and other platform infrastructure components, ensuring compliance with NHS standards and industry best practices.
2. Provide technical support to diagnose and resolve server and platform issues and incidents efficiently; identify root causes and implement solutions to minimise downtime and disruptions to healthcare services, ensuring optimal system performance.
3. Assist in implementing basic security measures to protect server and platform environments and sensitive data, including access controls, monitoring systems, and adherence to security policies to mitigate cybersecurity risks.
4. Support the delivery of healthcare services to patients and staff within the NCA through dedicated, high-quality technical support and attention to detail.
About Us
The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) provides hospital and integrated health and social care services to over one million people living across Greater Manchester. Our 20,000 colleagues care for people in hospital and in the community, working across Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and Salford, to save and improve lives. We are committed to delivering high standards of care and work with local authorities and key partners. We value care, appreciate, and inspire — and we invite you to join our team.
Details
Date posted: 15 January 2026
Pay scheme: Agenda for change
Band: Band 6
Salary: £38,682 to £46,580 a year per annum
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time
Reference number: 236-NCA-AC278-25-B
Job locations: Salford Royal Hospital/Royal Oldham Hospital, Stott Lane/Rochdale Road, Salford/Oldham, M68HD
Job Description & Person Specification
Job responsibilities: To read more information about the advertised role, and the main job duties/responsibilities please open the Job Description and Person Specification located under the supporting documents heading. You can also read more information about working at the Northern Care Alliance within the attached Candidate Information Pack or by visiting our careers website: www.careers.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk
Previous applicants need not apply.
Person Specification
Essential
* Qualifications: Relevant degree level or equivalent or ability to demonstrate equivalent knowledge, skills and experience.
* Relevant subject matter qualification (e.g. Microsoft/VMware) or equivalent knowledge, skills and experience.
* Evidence of continued professional development.
Desirable
* Project Management Qualification (Prince2, SCRUM, etc)
* ITIL Qualification
Skills
* Able to plan and prioritise work.
* Analyse, investigate and resolve complex IT issues/problems.
* Able to communicate effectively with all levels of staff both within and external to the organisation.
* Advanced and accurate keyboard skills
* Able to work under own initiative to proactively pick up and complete tasks.
Desirable
* Able to support large scale projects.
* Able to complete Change Management processes
Knowledge, Training and Experience
* Experience of using IT Service Management (ITSM) Systems
* Experience focussing on IT infrastructure gained within an enterprise environment.
* Evidence of supporting IT solutions across multiple disciplines.
* Knowledge of IT "best practice" standards, procedures, policies and protocols
* Some knowledge of common alternative subject matter systems such as Unix, Linux, OS X.
Desirable
* Knowledge of working in a Healthcare IT environment.
* Understanding of IT Security
Disclosures
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) may be required. This post may also involve Sponsor considerations for Skilled Worker visa applicants in line with UK Visas and Immigration guidance.
Employer details: Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust. Address: Salford Royal Hospital/Royal Oldham Hospital, Stott Lane/Rochdale Road, Salford/Oldham, M68HD. Employer's website: https://www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/
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