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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Network Architect / Engineer - **Company:** The Football Association - **Location:** Wembley, United Kingdom - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Wireless LAN, Application Firewall, Microsoft Azure, Border Gateway Protocol, Spanning Tree Protocols, Complex Networks, DDoS Mitigation, Digital Technology, Data-Flow Analysis, IP Addressing, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Python (Programming Language), Network Security, Network Architecture, Routing, Network Segmentation, Packet Analyzer, Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Ansible, Virtual Local Area Networks, Wireless Networks, Diagnostic Tools, Firewalls (Computer Science), Physical Design, Open Network Automation Platform - **Published:** November 11, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerjet.co.uk/job/gbfa359596616ffd5a49ef1bdfe1603a22/eaa ## About the Role * In depth knowledge of enterprise networking (LAN, WAN/SD-WAN, routing and switching including BGP, OSPF, VLANs and spanning tree), preferably CCNP/CCIE certified or equivalent * Experience in facilitating meetings with project stakeholders to capture requirements * Experience of logical and physical design of secure, efficient, resilient network architectures * Experience of network security technologies, specifically firewalls, VPN, network segmentation, DDoS mitigation and web application firewalls, and industry security methodologies. * Experience of developing and documenting necessary network security policies and procedures. Beneficial to have: * Good working knowledge of wired and wireless networking, including wireless LAN design. * Working knowledge of Azure networking (VNets, ExpressRoute, VPN Gateway, Virtual WAN), preferably AZ-700 certified. * Experience of network automation, monitoring and troubleshooting tools (e.g. Python, Ansible, packet capture, flow analysis). * Must be able to identify risks inherent to technology solutions * Must understand project management methodologies and will be expected to contribute to technical projects * Must be able to break down technical projects into discrete tasks to assist in the creation of a project plan * Must have good time-management skills and be able to report progress on projects to a project manager ## Description We're looking for an experienced Network Architect / Engineer to join our Digital Technology team on a 12-month contract. This opportunity has arisen as the current postholder has stepped into several key strategic projects, creating an opening for someone who can make an immediate impact. We're looking for someone who enjoys balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery, designing enterprise network solutions while remaining close to the technology and supporting a complex network estate. You'll help shape network strategy, influence technical direction and drive innovation, while also rolling up your sleeves to support implementation, troubleshoot complex issues and contribute directly to project delivery. If you enjoy operating at the intersection of architecture and engineering, and want to work in an environment where you can see the impact of your decisions from design through to delivery, we'd love to hear from you Role Purpose Responsible for the production of low level network architecture designs for Digital Technology and business product lines, and for the engineering and support of the network estate, ensuring that all network standards are defined and met during delivery phases. What will you be doing? * Input into the technical design authority for networking across both infrastructure and business led proj * Produce low level network designs (IP addressing, VLANs, routing, firewall policy and connectivity) across both infrastructure and business led projects * Define and maintain network standards, configuration baselines and documentation, and ensure they are followed during build and change. * Build network proof of concepts as required for the FA roadmap. * Ensure network designs and projects are aligned with the wider enterprise architecture as part of the IT Strategy. * Identify network opportunities for innovation, resilience and performance improvement based on technical knowledge, best practice and industry trends. * Act as point of resolution for 3rd level network and connectivity issues * Collaborate with third party suppliers, carriers and partners to implement architectural changes to the network infrastructure * Maintain a knowledge base of emerging networking technologies and products. * Leverage vendor relationships to increase awareness of networking technology trends and assess the potential benefits to the FA * Executes additional tasks as required to meet the FA's changing priorities. * Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure that the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being can be maintained. * As part of the FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.