Senior Network and Systems Engineer (EL522)

Cheshire College - South & West; Crewe; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Crewe is seeking a qualified professional to oversee network and systems administration. This role requires a Level 4 qualification in Computing and strong experience in security and network technologies. The successful candidate will enhance the learning environment by ensuring effective infrastructure and maintaining high digital standards. Competitive salary, extensive professional development opportunities, and various staff benefits are offered.

Benefits

Access to world-class facilities

35 days holiday (plus bank holidays)

Competitive salary

Pension scheme with generous employer contributions

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 4 qualification in Computing, Networking or related discipline.
• Proven experience with configuration and troubleshooting of LAN/WAN and VPNs.
• High digital literacy, proficiency with Microsoft 365 and collaboration tools.

Responsibilities

• Support high-quality support for learners, visitors, customers, and staff.
• Design and maintain network and systems infrastructure.
• Proactively monitor security status of Windows/365/Azure estate.

Skills

Network and systems administration

Cyber Security Awareness

Digital Literacy

Education

Level 4 qualification in Computing

GCSE Grade C in Maths and English

Tools

Windows Server

Active Directory

VMware

Hyper-V

M365 / Azure

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Support and assist in the provision of quality support for learners, visitors, customers and staff;
• Design, implement, and maintain network and systems infrastructure ( hardware, peripherals and software ) to ensure they are functioning effectively, in accordance with agreed service standards;
• Cyber Security Aware – Proactively monitor the security status of the Windows / 365 / Azure estate and work with the team to resolve security issues as they arise;
• Manage and maintain accurate documentation and inventory;
• Manage the development and technical support of the technology infrastructure for both voice and data;
• Implement and maintain security protocols and disaster recovery plans; and
• Promote the welfare of children and young people

Key Person Specification Requirements

• Level 4 or higher qualification in Computing, Networking or related discipline;
• GCSE Grade C (4 / 5) in Maths and English (or equivalent) ;
• Proven experience in network and systems administration, including configuration and troubleshooting of LAN / WAN / VLAN, firewalls, and VPNs;
• Experience with Windows Server, Active Directory, and virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper‑V);
• Experience with all aspects of M365 / Azure Administration;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive data appropriately;
• High level of digital literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft 365 and collaboration tools;
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion in work and the learning environment;
• Up‑to‑date occupational experience; and
• Enhanced DBS check.

Please see the Job Description and Person Specification attached for further details.

If you’re interested in this new opportunity, you can apply by sending a completed application form to by 9am on 6 January 2026.

We do not consider applications submitted through recruitment agencies.

The selection process will take place on 15 January 2026.

Benefits

• Access to world‑class facilities
• Access to new qualifications to support your career in education such as short online courses in the areas below. If you’re interested in learning more about this, please email
• Information, Advice and Guidance
• Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent
• Principles of Customer Service
• Financial support offered to obtain your teacher qualification
• Extensive upskilling and professional development opportunities
• Competitive salary
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions (28.68% for TPS and 21% for LGPS)
• 35 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
• Onsite fitness and childcare facilities
• Employee benefit platform
• Onsite Costa, café, shop, restaurants and hair and beauty salon
• Free onsite parking
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Staff Awards

Equality and Diversity

• Information, Advice and Guidance
• Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent
• Principles of Customer Service
• Financial support offered to obtain your teacher qualification
• Extensive upskilling and professional development opportunities
• Competitive salary
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions (28.68% for TPS and 21% for LGPS)
• 35 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
• Onsite fitness and childcare facilities
• Employee benefit platform
• Onsite Costa, café, shop, restaurants and hair and beauty salon
• Free onsite parking
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Staff Awards

About Us

Cheshire College – South & West is the largest provider of post-16 education in the region, offering exciting opportunities to over 11,000 learners and 1,000 Apprentices, who all have access to world‑class facilities as a result of a £160m investment in the latest technology and real working environments, at modern Campuses in Crewe, Ellesmere Port and Chester. The College is in the process of implementing a £30m capital investment programme to ensure learners continue to have access to the best possible resources and environment.

Cheshire College is a dynamic, high quality and financially robust College, which provides learners with the skills, experience and qualifications that will prepare them for their future career or higher‑level study, encouraging them to become confident individuals who will make valuable contributions to businesses and the local economy.

There is a fantastic atmosphere at our three Campuses in Crewe, Ellesmere Port and Chester, providing an environment to get involved in exciting activities and an opportunity for learners to make new friends.

The College is proud of its strong links with local Employers such as Bentley Motors, Vauxhall Motors, SP Energy Networks, Ecolab and Unilever to ensure learners have access to work placements and industry professionals as well as ensuring the curriculum offer remains current and relevant to local, regional and national needs.

Crewe Campus

Our impressive facilities are the perfect place for learners to meet new friends and be immersed in an environment that is ideal for learning. As well as our modern classrooms, the Crewe Campus boasts :

• A multi‑purpose sports hall;
• Climbing wall;
• Fitness gym;
• TV and radio studios with specialist equipment;
• Mock aircraft cabin;
• Award‑winning restaurant, The Academy;
• Hair, beauty and barbering salons;
• Professional Centre Stage theatre and engineering and construction workshops; and
• New Institute of Technology (Construction began 2024).

Cheshire College South and West is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. Successful applicants will be required to provide a DBS Disclosure, Right to Work evidence and original qualification certificates. Online checks will be carried out and references will be sought.