Infrastructure Engineer

We are a group of passionate innovators and problem-solvers dedicated to ensuring that our systems run seamlessly, enabling every team to perform at their best., Sunderland AFC is seeking a skilled and dedicated IT Infrastructure Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be instrumental in maintaining and supporting the club's stadium and IT infrastructure, ensuring smooth operation during matches and events. Your responsibilities will include managing the stadium's network systems, Wi-Fi, CCTV, PA systems, and operational technologies to deliver a seamless experience for fans and staff alike. Additionally, you will oversee the management of Microsoft 365 and SharePoint platforms, ensuring their availability, security, and proper governance to facilitate effective collaboration across the Club.

The role also involves designing, deploying, and supporting core IT systems such as servers, switches, routers, firewalls, and cloud services, all with a focus on high availability and security. You will implement security controls and ensure compliance with relevant data protection standards, safeguarding the club's data and infrastructure. Providing timely technical support to staff, coaching teams, and external partners is essential, as is monitoring system performance and planning upgrades to support ongoing growth and increasing operational demands. Developing disaster recovery plans and backup solutions will be critical to maintaining operational continuity, while managing relationships with technology vendors, contractors, and external service providers will ensure smooth procurement, support, and maintenance processes. Maintaining detailed documentation of infrastructure configurations, procedures, and compliance records will also be part of your responsibilities.

Do you have experience in Software deployment?, The ideal candidate will bring a relevant qualification in Computer Science, Network Engineering, or a related field, along with a minimum of three years' experience supporting infrastructure, preferably within sports, stadiums, or large-scale venues. You'll have a solid understanding of network infrastructure, Wi-Fi deployment, CCTV systems, and stadium technology, with hands-on experience working with enterprise-grade networking equipment and protocols. While certifications like Cisco CCNA or Extreme ECP are a plus, they're not mandatory. Your familiarity with stadium safety and operational standards, combined with experience in stadium access control, ticketing systems, and large-scale AV/IT solutions, will set you apart. A strong grasp of security standards, data protection, and compliance specific to a sports environment is essential. You'll need sharp problem-solving skills, excellent communication, and stakeholder management abilities to navigate the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a top-flight football club. Flexibility, proactivity, and a forward-thinking mindset are crucial to succeed, especially during matchdays and major events when the stakes-and demands-are at their highest.

You will be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS through SAFC.