Network Engineer

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., * 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

• 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

• 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

If you're a Network Engineer looking to work on meaningful, security-focused projects in a complex environment, we'd like to hear from you.

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.