Network Engineer (Fixed-Term Contract - High Scope for Permanent) MCS Group has an 8 Month Fixed Term contract available for a Cloud Network Engineer in Belfast. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Network Engineer for a challenging 8-month Fixed-Term Contract with a very high probability of converting to a permanent position. This critical role involves working within a sensitive government-based network environment, driving the deployment of an enhanced scientific network cluster, and contributing to a vital Microsoft Azure Proof of Concept and transformation. You will use your existing Enterprise Networking and Azure Cloud expertise to ensure effective service delivery and robust security across our clients infrastructure. This is an excellent opportunity to work on strategic IT initiatives within a significant public sector setting. As the Network Engineer, you will report to the Head of IT and play a vital part in the following: Infrastructure Delivery: Design, implement, and maintain enterprise-level network infrastructure, focusing on high availability and security. Cloud Deployment: Deploy and manage Microsoft Azure services, including Virtual Machines, storage, networking (VPNs, data flow architecture), and ensuring appropriate security controls. Protocol Management: Apply solid understanding and experience with core network protocols, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and VPN, ensuring compatibility with the existing AFIB intranet. Security & Compliance: Implement network security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS), and endpoint protection. Troubleshooting: Expertly troubleshoot complex network and Azure-related networking issues using advanced network analysis tools. Project Leadership: Work within an Agile framework (stand-ups, sprint reviews). Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate effectively with a small internal team, multiple business units, and external third-party providers. The Person We are looking for an energetic "go-getter" with strong technical capability in both networking and Azure Cloud services. Essential Criteria Education: At least a Level 4 qualification in Computing, Software Engineering, or another discipline relevant to Information Systems and Information Technology. Experience - Networking: Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in network engineering, including designing and maintaining enterprise-level networks. Experience - Azure: Minimum 2 years hands-on experience in deploying and managing Microsoft Azure services. Certifications - Essential: CompTIA Network and CCNA: Routing & Switching. Team Fit: Willingness to interact and collaborate effectively within a small, centralised team structure. Access to a car and drive due to potential stakeholder engagement needs. Desirable: Certifications: CCNA,, ITIL Foundation, Microsoft Azure certifications (e.g., Azure Administrator Associate) Methodology: Experience working in an Agile environment. Details: Duration: 8 Months initially (High scope for permanent contract). Location: Hybrid working model (2 days office / 3 days WFH - subject to change based on business need). Working Hours: 37.5 per week, Monday-Friday (Standard business hours). Salary: £61,673 per annum. Successful candidates must be able to satisfy the requirements of the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and will be required to undergo a pre-employment screening check To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity, please send an up to date CV via the link provided or contact Corey Hillis, Specialist Temporary Recruiter, at MCS Group Even if this position is not right for you, we may have others that are. Please visit MCS Group to view a wide selection of our current and exclusive roles All conversations will be treated in the strictest of confidence. Benefits: Hybrid Working Flexi-Time ICT Allowance