Network Infrastructure Architect | SC Cleared

Network Infrastructure Architect | SC Cleared | On-site in Cumbria

I am currently seeking 1 Network Infrastructure Architect to join a long-term project starting as a 4 month contract, on-site in Cumbria.

Location: Fully on-site in Cumbria area

Rate: Inside IR35

Given the nature of the role and security requirements, candidates must be a sole UK national and hold active Security Clearance.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the design, planning, and on-site delivery of network infrastructure projects.
• Manage comms room design, including rack layouts, patching strategies, cable management, and structured cabling (copper and fibre).
• Create and maintain High-Level and Low-Level Designs (HLD/LLD), installation standards, and technical documentation.
• Provide technical oversight for containment, labelling, pathways, and adherence to installation best practices.
• Support engineers with configuration, deployment, and troubleshooting of Cisco network equipment (switching, routing, wireless, Firewalls).
• Assist with the integration of storage platforms, including SAN/NAS systems and related networking.
• Plan and coordinate UPS installations, power requirements, and resilience in line with site design principles.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, suppliers, and security teams to ensure smooth delivery of infrastructure solutions.
• Carry out on-site surveys, assessments, and hardware audits to validate designs and identify improvements.
• Ensure all solutions meet operational, security, and compliance requirements.
• Engage with third-party vendors and suppliers to obtain quotations and manage deliverables.

Required skills and experience:

• Strong technical background in enterprise network infrastructure and on-site implementations.
• In-depth knowledge of structured cabling (Cat5e/6/6a), fibre types, termination standards, containment, and patching systems.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco switching and routing technologies (IOS/NX-OS).
• Solid understanding of wireless technologies, VLANs, routing protocols, DHCP, DNS, and network segmentation.
• Experience with storage systems (SAN/NAS) and associated connectivity requirements.
• Familiarity with UPS systems, power distribution, and environmental considerations for comms rooms.
• Ability to read and produce technical drawings, rack elevations, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to lead technical discussions on-site.

Bonus/Additional experience:

• Experience working in secure or highly regulated environments (eg defence, government, critical national infrastructure).
• Knowledge of ITSM processes and tools (ServiceNow or similar).
• Understanding of data centre standards and best practices, including cooling, redundancy, and monitoring.
• Relevant certifications such as CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+/Server+, or vendor-specific cabling accreditations.

If this is of interest, please apply using your latest CV and let's discuss further!