WAN Architect

JR United Kingdom; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology services provider is seeking a skilled WAN Architect to design and deliver network solutions for critical UK Defence and National Security projects. This role offers a competitive salary, hybrid working model, and opportunities for career development within a global organization.

Benefits

Performance-related bonus scheme

Hybrid working model offering flexibility

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in designing and delivering complex network solutions.
• Proven expertise with Cisco and Juniper technologies.
• Strong knowledge of networking principles and project lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Take technical ownership of WAN solution design.
• Develop robust design documentation for multi-vendor solutions.
• Collaborate effectively to deliver solutions on time.

Skills

Network Design

Problem Solving

Stakeholder Management

Communication

Education

CCNA/CCNP Certification

JNCIA-Design Certification

Job description

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WAN Architect – Secure & Critical Projects

Location: Warrington (Hybrid Model with regular travel to customer & company sites)

Salary: Up to £65,000 per annum + £6,000 Car Allowance + Performance Bonus

Clearance: You would need to be eligible for, or currently hold SC Clearance

Are you a talented WAN Architect looking to make a real impact? Ready to design and deliver cutting-edge network solutions for high-profile projects within the secure UK Defence and National Security sector?

We are partnering with a leading Global Technology Services Provider who are seeking a skilled WAN Architect to join their project delivery team.

In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in designing and implementing medium to large-scale, cost-effective network solutions that underpin critical national services.

This is a fantastic opportunity to leverage your technical expertise, providing leadership and ensuring the successful delivery of complex network infrastructures.

What you'll be doing:

• Take technical ownership of WAN solution design, from understanding intricate business and technical requirements through to successful delivery.
• Develop robust, high-quality design documentation (HLDs, LLDs) for multi-vendor network solutions (e.g., Cisco, Juniper).
• Lead solutions through internal and external governance reviews, ensuring compliance and best practice.
• Collaborate effectively with project managers, wider programme teams, and customers to ensure solutions are delivered on time and meet expectations.
• Architect innovative and sometimes non-standard solutions incorporating LAN, WAN, WiFi, VPN, Voice, Video, Cyber, and Security technologies.
• Manage technical risks and dependencies, demonstrating strong commercial and financial awareness.
• Act as a key technical point of contact, communicating calmly and concisely with diverse stakeholders, including customers.

What we're looking for:

• Demonstrable experience in designing and delivering complex network solutions, translating customer needs into tangible technical designs.
• Proven design expertise with technologies from multiple global network vendors (Cisco, Juniper strongly preferred).
• Strong foundational networking knowledge, ideally backed by industry certifications (e.g., CCNA/CCNP, JNCIA-Design/Junos, or equivalent experience).
• A solid understanding of the end-to-end project lifecycle, from initial requirements gathering to Operational Acceptance.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills, with a proactive and decisive approach.
• Ability to take ownership, manage priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced project environment.
• Ideally, previous experience working within the UK Defence or National Security sector (SC or DV clearance, or eligibility for clearance, would be highly advantageous).

What's on offer:

• Competitive base salary up to £65,000.
• Performance-related bonus scheme.
• Hybrid working model offering flexibility.
• The chance to work on significant, impactful projects within a secure and stimulating environment.
• Career development opportunities within a globally recognised technology leader.

Ready to take the next step in your Network Architecture career?

If you are a proactive WAN Architect with a passion for delivering excellence, we want to hear from you!

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