Senior Network Engineer

This is a full-time, on-site role (5 days per week) at a secure location in Hereford. You’ll be operating at SFIA Level 5 , shaping and supporting mission-critical network infrastructure in highly specialised environments.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of the work, you must hold - or be eligible to obtain - a high level of National Security Clearance. (See: Gov.UK - United Kingdom Security Vetting)

Some UK travel with overnight stays may be required.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll own and optimise complex network environments, getting hands-on across a wide range of technologies and responsibilities, including:

• Configuring and managing routers, switches, and routing protocols
• Designing VLANs, network segmentation, and virtualised network environments
• Delivering cloud networking solutions and network automation
• Producing detailed network designs, configs, and performance reports
• Monitoring and improving network performance with the right tools and processes
• Troubleshooting implementation issues and supporting end users in test environments
• Deploying infrastructure through later delivery phases
• Contributing to PI (Program Increment) planning and cross-functional collaboration
• Guiding and enabling others to deliver results, with scope to supervise or mentor

• Proven experience as a Senior Network Engineer
• Strong capability across:
• Routing & Switching
• Network Security
• Monitoring & Management
• Network Virtualisation
• Cloud Networking
• Network Automation
• Excellent troubleshooting skills and the ability to untangle complex issues
• Certifications such as CCNA / CCNP (or equivalent) are a bonus
• Strong communicator and collaborator
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail
• Comfortable adapting to evolving technologies and industry trends

• Employer Pension Contributions
• Group Life Insurance
• Dental Cashback Plan
• Health Cashback Plan
• Wellbeing Services (includes GP, Physio and Savings Benefits)
• Thorn Wellbeing Support Contribution
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Supported Training & Personal Development Opportunities

Ready to Take the Lead?

If you’re looking to push your career forward in a high-stakes, fast-moving environment, we’d love to hear from you. Join Thorn SDS and become a key player in delivering secure, reliable network solutions where they matter most.

Thorn SDS is a specialist Managed Service Provider based in Alton, Hampshire. We empower technology professionals and organisations across the Space, Defence, and Security sectors - and now, we’re growing our team with a Senior Network Engineer who’s ready to make an impact.