Network Infrastructure Architect | SC Cleared | On-site in Cumbria
I am currently seeking 1 Network Infrastructure Architect to join a long-term project starting as a 4 month contract, on-site in Cumbria.
Location: Fully on-site in Cumbria area
Rate: Inside IR35
Given the nature of the role and security requirements, candidates must be a sole UK national and hold active Security Clearance.
Responsibilities include:
1. Lead the design, planning, and on-site delivery of network infrastructure projects.
2. Manage comms room design, including rack layouts, patching strategies, cable management, and structured cabling (copper and fibre).
3. Create and maintain High-Level and Low-Level Designs (HLD/LLD), installation standards, and technical documentation.
4. Provide technical oversight for containment, labelling, pathways, and adherence to installation best practices.
5. Support engineers with configuration, deployment, and troubleshooting of Cisco network equipment (switching, routing, wireless, firewalls).
6. Assist with the integration of storage platforms, including SAN/NAS systems and related networking.
7. Plan and coordinate UPS installations, power requirements, and resilience in line with site design principles.
8. Work closely with project managers, engineers, suppliers, and security teams to ensure smooth delivery of infrastructure solutions.
9. Carry out on-site surveys, assessments, and hardware audits to validate designs and identify improvements.
10. Ensure all solutions meet operational, security, and compliance requirements.
11. Engage with third-party vendors and suppliers to obtain quotations and manage deliverables.
Required skills and experience:
12. Strong technical background in enterprise network infrastructure and on-site implementations.
13. In-depth knowledge of structured cabling (Cat5e/6/6a), fibre types, termination standards, containment, and patching systems.
14. Hands-on experience with Cisco switching and routing technologies (IOS/NX-OS).
15. Solid understanding of wireless technologies, VLANs, routing protocols, DHCP, DNS, and network segmentation.
16. Experience with storage systems (SAN/NAS) and associated connectivity requirements.
17. Familiarity with UPS systems, power distribution, and environmental considerations for comms rooms.
18. Ability to read and produce technical drawings, rack elevations, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
19. Strong communication skills with the ability to lead technical discussions on-site.
Bonus / Additional experience:
20. Experience working in secure or highly regulated environments ( defence, government, critical national infrastructure).
21. Knowledge of ITSM processes and tools (ServiceNow or similar).
22. Understanding of data centre standards and best practices, including cooling, redundancy, and monitoring.
23. Relevant certifications such as CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+/Server+, or vendor-specific cabling accreditations.
If this is of interest, please apply using your latest CV and let's discuss further !
Reference
CR/132385_1770294806
Date
5 Feb 2026