Principal Network Engineer (Fully Remote)

VanRath; Belfast; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in technology-driven services is seeking a senior Network Engineer to enhance their enterprise network and systems. This pivotal role focuses on designing robust solutions and requires deep technical proficiency in network security, cloud technologies, and extensive experience in engineering practices, all aimed at developing a high-performance IT landscape.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in network/system engineering in enterprise environments.
• Deep expertise in routing, switching, and network security.
• Strong communication skills with a focus on documentation.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement network solutions across hybrid cloud environments.
• Lead enterprise technology initiatives and provide high-level support.
• Monitor systems and manage capacity planning and availability strategies.

Skills

Routing

Switching

Network Security

Cloud Networking

Automation

Scripting

Communication

Education

Palo Alto Certification

Juniper Certification

Cloud Certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP)

ITIL

Tools

Palo Alto Firewalls

Juniper Network Hardware

PowerShell

Bash

Ansible

Terraform

Job description

Our client, a growing leader in technology-driven services, is seeking a highly experienced Network Engineer to help modernise and manage their enterprise network and systems environment. Operating across a complex hybrid infrastructure, including cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and on-premise systems, the business requires a senior professional to design, implement, and evolve its next-generation technical framework.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping secure, scalable, and resilient environments-working closely with cross-functional engineering, security, and operations teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical proficiency, strong leadership, and a proactive mindset in optimising enterprise IT landscapes for performance, reliability, and security.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement robust network and infrastructure solutions across hybrid cloud and on-premise environments, ensuring high availability and security.
• Lead and contribute to the execution of enterprise-wide technology initiatives, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee the full lifecycle of network infrastructure including configuration, deployment, tuning, and performance monitoring.
• Provide escalation-level support for complex incidents and participate in high-impact change management processes.
• Collaborate with engineering and security teams to align network design with access control, identity management, and threat protection strategies.
• Support the transition of legacy infrastructure to modern platforms using Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) and automation tools.
• Produce detailed architectural documentation, standard operating procedures, and system diagrams.
• Monitor systems proactively using enterprise tools; lead capacity planning and availability strategies, including DR/BCP testing.
• tay informed on emerging technologies and propose adoption of cost-effective, value-driven solutions.
• Act as a senior technical point of contact for internal stakeholders, vendors, and leadership.

Skills & Experience Required

• 10+ years of progressive experience in network/system engineering within enterprise environments.
• Deep hands-on expertise with core routing and switching technologies.
• Advanced experience with Palo Alto firewall administration and enterprise network security design.
• High proficiency in working with Juniper network hardware and software.
• Expert-level understanding of VPN configurations, authentication protocols (RADIUS, LDAP, Active Directory), and wireless network technologies.
• Working knowledge of server operating systems, including both Linux and Windows Server platforms.
• Proven experience with scripting and automation using tools such as PowerShell, Bash, Ansible, or Terraform.
• Strong exposure to cloud networking in AWS, Azure, or GCP environments.
• Track record of managing complex infrastructure projects from design through deployment and support.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills; able to interact with both technical teams and executive stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, agile environment while managing competing priorities with minimal supervision.

Desirable Certifications

• Palo Alto
• Juniper
• Cloud certifications: AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator, or GCP equivalent
• Additional: CCSP, ITIL, or equivalent methodology

This is a strategic position for a technically accomplished professional who enjoys solving challenging problems and shaping the future of enterprise technology environments. If you are motivated by innovation, enjoy end-to-end ownership, and thrive in high-performance cultures-this role offers the platform to make a lasting impact.