Job Description

The vacancy
Full Time (will consider Part-Time Applications)
Permanent
Design, implement, and maintain robust, secure, and scalable network infrastructure solutions. Ensure high availability, performance, and security of bpha's network systems while mentoring junior staff and collaborating across IT teams.
Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop network architecture strategies aligned with business needs and industry standards.
• Implement and manage network security measures (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Configure and maintain routers, switches, wireless systems, and firewalls.
• Deploy scalable, high-performance network solutions with minimal downtime.
• Conduct regular network maintenance, updates, and upgrades.
• Perform security audits and vulnerability assessments.
• Respond to and mitigate network security incidents.
• Automate network tasks and processes using scripting tools.
• Maintain comprehensive network documentation and diagrams.
• Collaborate with IT teams and third-party vendors on network-related projects.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members.
• Stay current with emerging network technologies and trends.

Key Performance Indicators

• High network uptime and minimal downtime.
• Successful delivery of network projects on time and within budget.
• Zero or minimal security breaches.
• Positive stakeholder feedback on network performance and documentation.
• Effective automation and continuous improvement of network processes.
• Accurate and timely documentation updates.
• Strong collaboration and communication across teams.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Logical and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.
• Strategic thinking and stakeholder management.
• Adaptability and responsiveness to change.
• Strong vendor relationship management.
• Willingness to travel to remote sites as needed.

Essential Experience & Knowledge

• Proven experience as a Senior Network Engineer.
• Proficiency in network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF).
• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, NETGEAR, ZYXEL.
• Experience with SD-WAN technologies and network security tools.
• Strong background in Microsoft Azure and automation tools.
• Experience leading network projects and scripting for automation.

Desirable Experience

• Windows Server administration.
• Experience with Amazon AWS or other cloud platforms.
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies (Scrum) or project management (PRINCE2, APM).
• ITIL Foundation certification.

Qualifications

• Relevant degree or equivalent experience.
• Certifications such as CCNP, CCIE, or equivalent (Essential).
• Full clean driving license (Essential).

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a sufficient number of applications or find a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date. We encourage interested applicants to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
About us
bpha is a Housing Association located in the Oxford to Cambridge arc, which is committed to providing its customers with high quality, value for money services whilst continuing to develop energy efficient, sustainable and affordable housing.
We are a leading provider and developer of affordable homes - for rent, sheltered, residential care and shared ownership.
We work together with communities - to improve opportunities, independence and quality of life for our residents, and to benefit the wider community. We bring people together, and run and support a wide range of community activities.
All the money we make is used to invest in existing homes, to enable us to build new homes, and to deliver new and improved services.
We own or manage over 19,500 homes and over 500 staff.
Our vision and values
To build communities where people can live happily in a home they can afford.
Our values underpin the work that we do and are ingrained in our culture at bpha. We are looking for people who can share these values and translate them into day-to-day practices for the benefit of our communities, customers and fellow colleagues. So that we can realise our vision, together.
We are ambitious
We are better together
We show empathy
We take responsibility
Benefits
We believe that benefits should be more than just perks. For us, they aren't simply little extras added on at the end, they're fundamental parts of what we stand for, from the very beginning. As standard.
That's why at bpha, we reward our employees by making sure we give them a supportive and caring environment, that empowers them to be happy, healthy and inspired, every day.
Money & Time

• Holiday entitlement of 28-33 days a year, plus public holidays
• Contributory pension scheme
• Competitive pay
• Life assurance cover

Health & Wellbeing

• Private healthcare
• Mental Health First Aid
• Counselling service
• Eye tests
• Discounted gym membership
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free annual flu jabs
• Wellbeing activities and events
• Free fruit and refreshments

Recognition

• Long service award
• Annual staff recognition awards
• Discretionary reward scheme

Lifestyle

• Annual volunteering day
• Social events, clubs and activities
• Breakout areas
• Onsite cafe/restaurant at headquarters

Development

• Opportunities for professional training and qualifications
• Workshops and training sessions for new skills
• A fresh and modern eLearning platform

Skills Required