Network Engineer - Python Automation Specialist - Contract

Location: Remote (UK-based)
Travel: Occasional in-person meetings if appropriate
Day Rate: £400-£450 per day (Inside IR35)
Duration: Initial 6 months
Start: ASAP

In support of a major Healthcare client, we are seeking a skilled Network Engineer with strong Python programming expertise to join a high-performing automation team. This role will support network automation initiatives, supplementing existing efforts with Python development and software engineering best practices.

This is a specialist position suited to a candidate who combines deep network engineering knowledge with hands-on coding ability to drive automation and tooling improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Work as part of the automation team, contributing Python development and network engineering expertise to deliver automation solutions

• Develop and maintain Python scripts and automation workflows to enhance network operations

• Support integrations and workflows for network tools and platforms, including Palo Alto Strata Cloud Manager

• Manage code and version control using GitHub

• Work with network engineers to ensure automation solutions align with enterprise network design and operations

• Contribute to continuous improvement of network automation processes and toolsets

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Network Engineer, with strong NE knowledge

• Strong Python programming and Scripting skills

• Familiarity with Palo Alto Strata Cloud Manager/ADEM

• Experience with GitHub and version control best practices

• Experience working within an automation team or delivering network automation projects

• Knowledge of software engineering principles, testing, and deployment

• Ability to work across on-premise and cloud network environments

• Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with engineering teams