DC Architect - 6-Month Contract - Hybrid (London)

DC Architect - 6-Month Contract - Hybrid (London)

We're looking for an experienced DC Architect who's passionate about building and maintaining high-performance, scalable and resilient network infrastructure. You'll be part of a team that designs, automates and supports a global environment, which underpins cutting-edge research and technology operations and drives the success of our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing, implementing and maintaining enterprise-grade data centre networks using Cisco and Arista technologies
• Taking ownership of complex troubleshooting and break/fix efforts, resolving issues across routing, switching, Firewalls and WAN infrastructure
• Automating and optimising network operations using Git, Ansible, Python and Jinja2
• Deploying and managing WAN edge infrastructure, with exposure to MPLS and Segment Routing considered a plus
• Contributing to the evolution of our Infrastructure-as-Code and CI/CD practices for network provisioning and deployment
• Collaborating closely with Network Engineering, Infrastructure and DevOps teams to deliver robust, future-ready solutions
• Mentoring and supporting junior engineers, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and technical excellence
• Conducting regular audits to ensure compliance with internal standards and best practices
• Working hand-in-hand with the Network Operations team to ensure seamless delivery and continuous improvement

What You Will Ideally Bring

• Experience designing, engineering and operating large-scale enterprise or data centre networks
• Expertise with Cisco and Arista hardware and software platforms, including IOS, IOS-XR, NX-OS and EOS
• Understanding of modern networking technologies such as BGP, OSPF, EVPN, VXLAN and MPLS, and how to apply them in production environments
• Ability to take complex customer requirements and transform that into designs
• Exposure to WAN and SD-WAN solutions, with knowledge of segment routing and multi-tenant architectures
• Knowledge of automation and Scripting, ideally with Python, Ansible, Jinja2 and Git, to help drive Infrastructure-as-Code practices
• Diagnostic and analytical skills, including packet-level troubleshooting and performance tuning in complex environments
• Familiarity with network monitoring, telemetry and predictive analytics tools to ensure proactive performance management
• Experience collaborating in Agile and DevOps-driven teams, where cross-functional alignment and fast iteration are key
• Certifications such as CCNP (or equivalent), CCIE or advanced vendor credentials are a strong advantage

Contract Details

• Duration: 6 months (with potential extension)
• Day Rate: Up to £650-£900 per day (Inside IR35) (Varies on AI Experience and Exposure)
• Location: London - Hybrid
• Start Date: ASAP