Network Engineer – Stoke-on-Trent
On-site with flexibility after probation
Up to £70,000 + benefits
Sanderson Government & Defence are supporting a key public sector client in their search for an experienced Network Engineer to join a growing, security-focused technology team based in Stoke-on-Trent. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in designing and delivering secure, resilient, and high‑performing network infrastructure supporting business‑critical services. You'll work with leading technologies including Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and Dell, helping to strengthen and modernise a complex enterprise environment.
The Role
As a Network Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, and support of secure network solutions, ensuring high availability, performance, and security across the organisation. You'll collaborate closely with infrastructure, cloud, and cybersecurity teams, contributing to network strategy and supporting ongoing transformation initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and deliver scalable, secure network infrastructure using Cisco technologies (routing, switching, wireless)
* Implement and manage next‑generation firewalls (Palo Alto & Fortinet), including policy management, VPNs, and threat prevention
* Support and integrate Dell networking and infrastructure solutions
* Monitor network performance and security, proactively identifying and resolving issues
* Troubleshoot complex network and connectivity incidents
* Design secure architectures including segmentation, zero‑trust principles, and high availability
* Manage and optimise site‑to‑site and remote access VPNs
* Maintain network documentation, standards, and procedures
* Support patching, upgrades, and lifecycle management of network devices
* Participate in change, incident, and problem management processes
* Support disaster recovery and business continuity planning
About You
* Proven experience in enterprise network engineering within complex environments
* Strong Cisco networking expertise (routing, switching, wireless)
* Hands‑on experience with Palo Alto and/or Fortinet firewalls
* Experience with VPN technologies and secure remote access
* Solid understanding of network security principles
* Experience troubleshooting across multiple network layers
* Familiarity with network monitoring and logging tools
* Experience working within ITIL or structured service environments
* Strong documentation and communication skills
Desirable
* Experience with Dell networking/infrastructure
* Certifications such as CCNA/CCNP, PCNSE, Fortinet NSE
* Experience in public sector or secure environments
What's on Offer
Salary up to £70,000
On‑site role in Stoke‑on‑Trent with flexibility available after settling into the position
Opportunity to work on secure, high‑impact projects
Collaborative, forward‑thinking technical environment
Ongoing professional development and certification support
Reasonable Adjustments
Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.
If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
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