Graduate Cloud and Infrastructure Engineer - Preston - 2027

OCU Group; Preston; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

OCU Group in Preston is recruiting a Graduate Cloud and Infrastructure Engineer to join the Group Services team on a permanent, full-time basis. You will support cloud platforms, on-premise infrastructure and core technology services that underpin operations, with a two-year graduate training programme and hands-on exposure to modern cloud and automation practices.

Based in Preston, you will work with engineers and technical specialists to monitor systems, troubleshoot issues and contribute to

Qualifications

• Degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Software Engineering or related subject with a minimum 2:2 classification.
• Driving licence is essential due to travel across site locations.
• Graduates who are passionate about cloud, IT infrastructure and modern technology environments.

Responsibilities

• Support cloud platforms and on-premise infrastructure.
• Monitor performance, troubleshoot issues and assist with upgrades and migrations.
• Contribute to automation, virtualization, monitoring, disaster recovery and cyber security initiatives.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Curiosity

Education

Cybersecurity/IT degree

Job description

Graduate Cloud and Infrastructure Engineer - Preston - 2027

Department: Group Services

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Preston

Reporting To: Dan Riley

Description

You'll play a key role in supporting and maintaining the cloud platforms, infrastructure and core technology services that underpin OCU's operations. Based in Preston, you'll work as part of our Infrastructure and Cloud Services team, helping to deliver reliable, secure and scalable technology solutions that support colleagues, customers and business-critical services across the organisation.

You'll gain exposure to a broad range of cloud and infrastructure technologies, supporting the management, maintenance and improvement of systems across on-premise and cloud environments. Working alongside experienced engineers, architects and technical specialists, you'll help monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, implement infrastructure changes and support projects that drive innovation and operational efficiency.

As part of the role, you'll contribute to the administration of cloud platforms, servers, networks, storage solutions and endpoint technologies, while developing an understanding of modern infrastructure practices including automation, virtualisation, monitoring, disaster recovery and cyber security. You'll support the delivery of infrastructure upgrades, cloud migrations and technology transformation initiatives, gaining practical experience across the full technology lifecycle.

You'll work closely with technical teams and business stakeholders to ensure systems remain resilient, secure and fit for purpose. As your knowledge and confidence grow, you'll take on increasing responsibility, develop your technical expertise and play an active role in shaping and supporting the technology landscape that enables OCU's continued growth and success.

Perfect for

Graduates who are passionate about technology, cloud computing and IT infrastructure, and who want to build a career designing, supporting and improving modern technology environments. You'll be naturally curious, analytical and eager to learn, with strong problem-solving skills and an interest in how complex systems and technologies work together.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys troubleshooting technical challenges, learning new technologies and working collaboratively to deliver reliable and innovative solutions. You'll be keen to develop your skills across cloud platforms, networking, infrastructure, automation and systems administration while working alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists.

You'll enjoy balancing day-to-day operational support with project-based work, helping to deliver technology solutions that improve performance, enable business growth and support the digital transformation of the organisation.

Entry Requirements

You’ll need (or be on track to achieve) a degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Software Engineering or related subject with a minimum 2:2 classification.

Due to travel and support across various site locations driving licence is essential before starting the role.

Training Programme

Our 2 year Graduate Programme combines structured training with hands‑on experience, giving you real responsibility from day one. You'll learn directly alongside industry experts in a collaborative, supportive environment. We invest in your continuous professional development, giving you the tools, confidence and clear progression path to build a long term career within OCU.