IT Systems Architect (Fixed Term Contract)

We are looking for a Solution Architect to define and shape technology solutions across a complex IT and OT environment. This is a primarily hands-off role focused on solution design, alignment, and decision-making across infrastructure, networks, security, enterprise applications, and operational technology. You will lead solution definition for complex initiatives, working with internal teams and external suppliers to produce clear, deliverable designs ready for implementation. This role is ideal for a senior engineer or technical lead looking to step into architecture, working across legacy manufacturing systems and modern platforms., * Lead end-to-end solution design across infrastructure, networks, security, and OT

• Translate business requirements into clear, structured technical designs (HLDs, LLDs, diagrams)
• Drive alignment across technical teams to agree a single solution direction
• Own architectural decisions, ensuring solutions are practical, supportable, and aligned to standards
• Engage internal teams and external suppliers to shape and validate solutions
• Identify and manage risks, dependencies, and constraints early in the design process
• Produce clear, structured design documentation to support delivery and ongoing support
• Provide architectural oversight during delivery to ensure alignment with agreed designs
• Contribute to architecture standards, patterns, and governance
• Support resolution of complex design challenges across multiple technical domains

Do you have experience in Waterfall?, * Strong background in IT infrastructure engineering (servers, storage, virtualisation, core platforms)

• Proven ability to design end-to-end solutions across multiple infrastructure domains
• Solid understanding of networking fundamentals (routing, switching, segmentation, firewalls)
• Good working knowledge of cyber security principles (identity, access control, hardening, risk)
• Experience working in hybrid environments (on-prem, cloud, and legacy/OT systems)
• Ability to produce clear, structured solution designs (HLDs, LLDs, diagrams)
• Experience translating business requirements into practical technical solutions
• Ability to identify and manage risks, dependencies, and integration points across systems
• Working knowledge of ITIL concepts and structured delivery environments (projects/programmes)
• Strong ability to challenge constructively and drive technical consensus
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills (technical and non-technical)
• Experience working with multiple teams and third-party suppliers to deliver outcomes

Desirable:

• Relevant certifications (e.g. ITIL, Azure, security, or architecture certifications)
• Experience working in manufacturing, industrial, or OT environments
• Exposure to architecture principles, frameworks, or structured design approaches
• Knowledge of cloud platforms (Azure, AWS) and modern hosting models
• Familiarity with network security and segmentation approaches (e.g. NAC, Zero Trust concepts)
• Experience contributing to architecture standards, patterns, or governance frameworks
• Understanding of project or programme delivery methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, hybrid)

Pulled from the full job description

• Annual leave
• Sick pay
• Employee assistance programme
• Company pension, Whatever your stage in life, you'll find a range of benefits to complement your work-life balance. The benefits you'll enjoy include:
• Defined contribution company pension scheme
• 27 personal annual leave days + statutory bank holidays
• Life Assurance
• A comprehensive Company sick pay scheme
• Health Cash Plan via our partnership with Simply health
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Standby and call-out payments
• Family friendly benefits including enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.

British Steel is a leading European steel manufacturer, supplying premium long products around the world. We take great pride in our history and heritage. Not many companies can claim to have generations of families dedicating their working lives to one company, one industry. Steel gets into your blood, and this drives the passion of our people. And these 2 values deliver our third value of performance - making the products our customers want now and in the future. British Steel has a bright future and we want you to be part of it.