Network Operations Architect

ZipRecruiter; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment platform is seeking an experienced Network Operations / Solution Architect Lead for a high-profile contract. The role involves both strategic oversight and hands-on leadership in the network function, including solution design and team guidance. Based in London, this position offers a hybrid work model and requires strong expertise in network architecture and integration projects.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in WAN, LAN, WiFi, and SD-WAN.
• Experience with integration projects and Zscaler is crucial.
• Ability to present options, risks, and recommendations to leadership.

Responsibilities

• Design solutions and create network diagrams.
• Lead, coach, and guide the Networks team.
• Balance cost, governance, and service excellence.

Skills

Network Architecture & Operations expertise

Experience with integration projects

Zscaler knowledge

Presentation of options and risks

Hands-on technical skills

Job description

Job Description

Urgent Contract Opportunity – Network Operations / Solution Architect Lead

Location: Paddington / London / Milton Keynes (Hybrid)

Duration: 6 Months

Inside IR35 (including holiday pay)

Manufacturing experience

We’re seeking an experienced Network Operations / Solution Architect Lead to join our client on a high-profile contract, providing both strategic oversight and hands-on technical leadership within their network function.

This role bridges operational delivery and strategic architecture – you’ll be:

• Designing solutions & creating network diagrams
• Pricing options & presenting risks/benefits to leadership
• Leading, coaching & guiding the Networks team
• Stepping in hands-on when needed

Key Focus Areas:

• SD-WAN (2.0): resilience, security, Zscaler & operability
• Integration projects: (e.g., International Paper merger) – modulation & impact assessment
• Supporting key initiatives (80/20, EUDR, I-Hub) requiring network input
• ITIL-aligned service delivery across the team
• Balancing cost, governance & service excellence

What You’ll Bring:

• Strong Network Architecture & Operations expertise (WAN, LAN, WiFi, SD-WAN)
• Experience with integration projects & Zscaler
• Ability to clearly present options, risks & recommendations to leadership
• A hands-on approach – not just strategic, but operational when required

This is an urgent requirement – an exciting opportunity for a professional who can combine strategic thinking, technical know-how, and leadership skills.