Application Deadline : Wednesday 22nd October at 23:55pm We are seeking seasoned Network Architects and Engineers with a proven track record in designing, delivering, and securing complex enterprise-grade network infrastructures. As a Principal Network Engineer/Architect at the Home Office, you will play a pivotal role in leading the development, design, implementation, and ongoing operation of the enterprise network underpinning the Home Office’s critical systems and services. What will you be doing? A Principal Network Engineer is a technical leader, responsible for developing strategic and tactical engineering roadmaps for technologies and services. Ensuring they are future proofed and maximise value of technology investments. You define engineering best practice within the Home Office and inspire others to adopt them. You may be responsible for the operational relationships with suppliers ensuring network services align with industry best practice, regulatory and contractual requirements. You will lead and direct network teams in building, managing, transitioning, supporting, and maintaining solutions according to departmental policy and strategy. You will work with technical architects to ensure continuous improvement to the service catalogue, future designs, and service operability. You will lead overall management activities such as workforce planning, budgeting, technology roadmaps, projects, and tasks. Your skills for this role You’ll have a demonstrable passion for Network Engineering with the following skills or proven experience in: Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) encompassing enterprise infrastructure; Or demonstrate substantial hands-on experience in leading network design and implementation in large scale private or public sector organisations. Core technical LAN and WAN concepts, including wireless connectivity, switching, routing, firewalling, load balancing, network segmentation and security. Key engineering principles and standards, and the ability to inspire others to follow these. Managing and delivering complex technologies within time, cost and quality targets. Ensuring all solutions are robust, resilient and appropriately implemented, secured, tested and documented. Advising on future technology changes and innovations and defining best practice for network improvements and information security. Why join us? Exceptional pension : Employer contribution of 28.97%. Generous leave : 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service), 8 public holidays, and 1 day for the King’s Birthday. Flexible working : Options include full-time, part-time, compressed hours, job sharing, and a hybrid model (minimum 60% on-site). Learning and development : Access to training, technical accreditations, and funded qualifications (subject to approval). Inclusion and recognition : A culture that champions diversity, enhanced parental leave schemes, annual bonuses, and recognition awards. Learn more about our benefits: Benefits - Home Office Careers Please note: This role requires SC clearance. To meet national security vetting requirements, you must typically have been resident in the UK for at least five years. Ready to lead and innovate? Click "Apply" to access the full job description and salary details.