We are delighted to share an outstanding opportunity for a skilled and motivated IT Operations Engineer to join our client, SaxaVord Spaceport. Working on a hybrid basis from Banchory in Aberdeenshire or Grantown on Spey, you will play a key role in supporting cutting-edge spaceport operations, ensuring mission critical systems operate reliably during launches and simulations.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with advanced technologies and contribute directly to the future of UK spaceflight. Based on Unst in Shetland, SaxaVord is the UK’s first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport and the first in Western Europe, authorised by the Civil Aviation Authority to support up to 30 satellite launches per year.
This role is central to maintaining the stability, security, and performance of the spaceport’s IT network infrastructure within a dynamic, high-security environment. Cisco certification is not essential but a broad understanding of Network design and maintenance coupled with an enthusiasm to develop skills in this area will be rewarded with support to study and achieve relevant accreditation.
Responsibilities
* Maintaining and monitoring core IT network infrastructure, including servers, devices, storage systems, and end-user devices across the SaxaVord site.
* Supporting the deployment, integration, and management of internal hardware, client computers, IT-supported ground control infrastructure, launch support platforms, and site networks.
* Ensuring high availability and performance of all critical systems during launch operations and simulations.
* Maintaining and updating network architecture, including satellite uplink interfaces, VLANs, and firewalls.
* Automating routine tasks and improving operational workflows using scripting languages such as PowerShell, Bash, or Python.
* Participating in the development and enforcement of cybersecurity and compliance standards aligned with UK space regulations and ISO 27001.
* Supporting failover, disaster recovery, and data protection protocols to maintain business continuity.
* Collaborating with the Launch Team, Ground Team, Mission Operations, and Security Teams to deliver robust IT solutions.
* Providing Tier 2 and Tier 3 support and participating in an on-call rotation for critical infrastructure incidents.
* Assisting in scaling infrastructure to support future launch activities and site expansions.
* Reporting hazards or potential safety issues to site management as necessary.
* Supporting other functions and participating in professional and personal development activities to enhance learning.
Qualifications
Essential:
* In-depth experience in IT systems operations and administration with specific exposure to Networks, preferably in a high-availability / high-security environment.
* Knowledge of Cisco Catalyst, Cisco Meraki, and Cisco Firepower hardware and virtual appliances.
* Proficiency in virtualisation technologies such as VMware and Hyper-V.
* Understanding of network protocols and services, including Unicast, Multicast, DNS, DHCP, and TCP/IP.
* Scripting experience for task automation and configuration management (e.g., PowerShell, Bash, Python).
* Experience working in both cloud-based and on-premise environments (Azure).
* Excellent diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
* Strong communication skills and the ability to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
* Attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to manage and prioritise workloads effectively.
* A proactive, adaptable, and resilient approach to working in a dynamic environment.
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