Overview
At the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust we put patients at the heart of health and care. The Trust has a vision: "Working together to provide outstanding care for our community." The Trust has been rated 'Good' by the CQC following improvements across the organisation. We value candidates who bring their unique personalities, skills, and experiences, and we encourage you to highlight achievements and strengths that align with the job description and person specification.
Note: AI-generated content is discouraged as it may lack the personal detail and relevance needed to demonstrate suitability for the role.
Role
The Platforms Engineer is a key technical position providing reliable and efficient support to the Digital Services infrastructure, including data centre environment management, desktop, server, storage and backup systems, access and security systems, and Active Directory. The post requires collaboration with Digital Services Service Delivery teams to meet published service level agreements. The post holder must be self-directed, able to work autonomously, and capable of interpreting technical policies. The role involves handling confidential Trust data, using VPN and two-factor authentication, and liaising with third-party suppliers, contractors, and Trust staff. Exposure to PRINCE2 project management and a strong understanding of ITIL service management methodologies are desirable. The post holder will support Server Engineers and Server Specialists and will work with Digital Services Service Delivery teams and stakeholders to ensure smooth operation of infrastructure services and timely issue resolution.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide third-line support for critical infrastructure systems (server, storage, network, backup).
* Oversee day-to-day operations of the data centre, servers, storage, backups, and Active Directory infrastructure.
* Develop and maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans; conduct regular tests and implement improvements.
* Design and implement backup strategies; optimise backup schedules for data protection.
* Ensure system security across digital platforms (patch management, VPN, 2FA, antivirus); adhere to information security policies and contribute to policy development.
* Communicate complex technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders; provide expert infrastructure recommendations.
* Produce user guides, technical documentation, and training materials; deliver training to Digital Services staff and other departments.
* Manage relationships with third-party suppliers and contractors; ensure SLAs are adhered to and projects meet specifications and budgets.
* Research and evaluate emerging technologies; propose innovative solutions to improve performance, security, and efficiency; ensure alignment with the Trust's DDaT strategy.
* Lead continuous improvement initiatives; document changes per Trust policies; engage in capacity planning and collaboration with IT teams.
* Plan and execute preventative maintenance; review business continuity plans for relevance and effectiveness.
Analytical and Judgement Skills
* Diagnose complex infrastructure issues using advanced analysis of logs and performance data; propose long-term solutions.
* Assess system health using monitoring tools; analyse trends to inform infrastructure improvements or expansions.
* Oversee change management; ensure changes are tested and have minimal service impact.
Planning and Organisation
* Lead infrastructure projects using PRINCE2; deliver on time, within budget, and to specifications.
* Plan service continuity, capacity and load planning; coordinate resources and priorities across projects.
* Manage changes through formal change control processes; communicate with stakeholders and document thoroughly.
Finance and Resource Management
* Manage budgets for infrastructure upgrades, system purchases, and third-party services.
* Procure hardware, software, and services with value-for-money considerations; coordinate with procurement.
* Oversee asset management including warranties, licenses, and maintenance contracts.
Information and Data Management
* Ensure data integrity; maintain secure storage, backup, and recovery systems; review data retention policies.
* Create and maintain system documentation including architecture diagrams and DR procedures; keep documentation up to date.
* Adhere to data protection policies (GDPR-compliant) and ensure encryption and secure access controls; conduct regular audits.
Physical and Technical Skills
* Advanced proficiency in server and storage management, virtualization (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V), and networking.
* Hands-on hardware installation, upgrades, and maintenance; security systems administration (firewalls, VPNs, access controls).
Qualifications
* Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent experience.
* Relevant IT infrastructure certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, VMware Certified Professional, CompTIA Security+).
* MCSA: Windows Server 2016 or Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate.
* Desirable: PRINCE2 Project Management Qualification; extensive experience in managing digital infrastructure in a complex, high-availability environment; Microsoft Active Directory 2008 R2+ with group policy design and troubleshooting; server virtualization technologies (VMware vSphere / Nutanix AHV); NHS/Acute healthcare experience.
Additional Information
Appointment is subject to NHS Employment Checks. All new appointments (except executive roles) have a 6-month probation. The Trust may close vacancies early due to high response levels. A smoke-free environment is maintained across Trust sites.
Staff Benefits
* Flexible working opportunities and a strong emphasis on work-life balance
* Annual leave: 27 days + bank holidays; increasing to 29 after 5 years and 33 after 10 years (pro rata for part-time)
* NHS pension scheme; Employee Assistance Programme; Health service discounts
* On-site nursery at RBH; educational library services; cycle-to-work scheme; bus links
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