Student Placement: Rugby Systems Operator 27/28

Hawk-Eye Innovations (HEI); Basingstoke; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawk-Eye Innovations is seeking a Rugby Systems Operator based in the UK (Basingstoke area) for a full-time, fixed-term 12-month contract. You will install and set up Hawk-Eye technology for matches, perform pre-match checks, and support live operations with hardware and software knowledge.

Travel across Europe and globally is expected, with weekends and evenings possible. Candidates should be technically minded, enjoy problem-solving, and be studying towards an undergraduate degree.

Qualifications

• This role requires a technical grounding and hands-on capability with live systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot under pressure.
• Excellent communication to liaise with broadcasters, officials and teams.

Responsibilities

• Install and set up Hawk-Eye technology for matches and perform pre-match checks.
• Operate Hawk-Eye video replay systems and support match officials and medical staff.
• Liaise with broadcasters, companies, officials and teams to ensure contractual obligations are met.
• Deliver remote support to live operations and troubleshoot hardware/software issues.
• Provide quick resolutions for technical issues and maintain system readiness.
• Coordinate with Rugby Remote Support team for smooth match operations.
• Conduct detailed pre-match checks and monitor hardware/software performance.
• Take ownership of the system on-site and represent the company professionally.
• Research and development into new projects and technologies; maintain equipment.

Skills

Technical grounding

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Innovation

Willingness to learn

Travel willingness

Ability to work under pressure

Rugby interest

Education

Undergraduate degree in progress

Job description

Location: Based in Basingstoke

Contract: Full-time, Fixed Term - 12 Months

Travel: There will be travel domestically, with potential travel across Europe and globally

Assessment Date(s): Early to mid-December 2026

Expected Start Date: Summer 2027

Why Hawk-Eye & Why Rugby?

Hawk-Eye provides video replay services across a wide number of local and global Rugby events, including domestic UK & European club competitions, international fixtures and major World Rugby events. We are passionate about Rugby and dedicated to bringing the best experiences to our audience. Our team is growing, and we are looking for talented individuals like you to join us on this exciting journey.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of sports technology across major sporting events. You will be part of a dynamic team delivering world-class tech solutions, designed to make rugby safer, fairer and more engaging.

The Rugby department delivers our SMART product across a wide range of high-profile Rugby events all over the globe each year.

Want to learn more? Check this blog out: https://medium.com/hawk-eye-innovations/team-hawk-eye-the-people-podcast-series-2-episode-1-37e1cb634f08

What Does A Rugby Systems Operator Do?

• Installation and setup of Hawk-Eye technology in the build-up to matches, and performing pre-match checks (this can involve physically demanding work, such as rigging cameras and running cables);

• Operation of Hawk-Eye video replay technology, supporting users such as Match Officials and Match Day Medical Staff in identifying and reviewing potential incidents

• Liaise with key stakeholders from broadcasters, companies, match officials and teams to ensure all contractual obligations are seamlessly delivered;

• Deliver Remote Support to live operations using your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot hardware and software issues

• Providing quick resolutions for any technical issues

• Liaise with our Rugby Remote Support team to ensure smooth setup and match operations

• Conduct detailed pre-match checks of the system in accordance with standard procedures

• Monitoring hardware and software performance

• Taking ownership of our system on-site and representing our company in the best possible manner;

• Research and development into new projects and technologies;

• Maintenance of the kit and equipment needed to run the system.

Why Is This the Right Job for You?

This position is perfect for you if you possess:

• A technical grounding

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication with the ability to liaise with clients and customers in a professional and approachable manner

• Great teamwork skills

• A passion for innovation

• A willingness to learn

• Flexible and willing to travel worldwide on a regular basis

• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced and pressurised environment

• An interest in the sport of Rugby

• Must be currently studying towards an undergraduate degree

Team Culture:

We pride ourselves on our team culture. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where every team member can contribute their best work. Our core values include:

• Innovation: We constantly seek new ways to improve and innovate in the sports entertainment industry.

• Teamwork: We celebrate our successes and learn from our experiences as a team.

• Passion: We love creating and making a difference through sport

What Difficulties Might I Face?

Up to this point, I’m sure there have been many things that you find intriguing about the role; however, there can be difficult times:

• Working Hours: Due to the nature of the sports industry, there is often work on weekends and midweek evenings, and we are expected to fulfil our roles until the last ball has been kicked.

• Travelling Abroad: You can expect to spend periods of the year working throughout Europe and internationally, based on the events in the sporting calendar.

• High-Pressure Situations: Working in a live broadcast environment on a production that is distributed to millions worldwide will bring high levels of pressure.

We will do our best to train and equip you to the best possible level to help with these, but they must be considered before submitting your application.