Senior Network Engineer

Next Ventures; Winnersh; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm is seeking a skilled Freelance Network & System Administrator to upgrade and modernise the network infrastructure at their Winnersh location. The role involves resolving IT incidents, supporting system installations, and ensuring system stability. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years relevant experience and strong technical skills in networking and system administration. This position offers on-site flexibility during a long-term mission.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in network and system administration.

Responsibilities

• Upgrade and modernise the network infrastructure at the Winnersh location.
• Resolve and document Level 2 IT incidents raised through the ticketing system.
• Support the installation, configuration, and maintenance of operating systems, software, and applications.
• Oversee IT asset management including computers, network equipment, servers, and licenses.

Skills

Networking

Firewall technologies

Hardware lifecycle management

Software lifecycle management

Linux & Windows administration

Virtualization (VMware)

Active Directory & user management

Job description

Freelance Network & System Administrator

Location: Winnersh (On‑site with some flexibility) Contract: Freelance / Long‑term mission

Security Requirement

• UK Home Office SC (Security Clearance) is required for this role

Are you a skilled Network & System Administrator looking for a high‑impact freelance assignment? This role offers the opportunity to lead a major infrastructure upgrade at theWinnersh site, working closely with global IT teams to design,, and optimise a modernised network environment. You’ll operate with a high level of autonomy, support critical systems, and ensure the stability, security, and performance of the site’s IT infrastructure.

Purpose of the Role

Your primary mission is to upgrade and modernise the network infrastructure at the Winnersh location in line with corporate standards. You will collaborate with multiple IT teams during the design phase and take ownership of implementing the new architecture.

Key Responsibilities

• Resolve and document Level 2 IT incidents raised through the ticketing system
• Support the installation, configuration, and maintenance of operating systems, software, and applications
• Manage communication with internal stakeholders from request to resolution, working closely with other departments
• Assist external vendors and ensure all activities comply with company standards
• Oversee IT asset management including computers, network equipment, servers, and licenses
• Coordinate and manage access to IT tools while ensuring compliance with security policies
• Support server infrastructure, virtualization, communications, and security to ensure high availability
• Manage and monitor all installed systems and VMware infrastructure
• Install, configure, test, and maintain OS, application software, and system management tools
• Proactively ensure maximum system and infrastructure uptime
• Troubleshoot complex issues, document procedures, and escalate when necessary
• Maintain security, backups, firmware upgrades, and redundancy strategies
• Contribute to the design of information and operational support systems
• Provide 2nd and 3rd line support
• Liaise with vendors and IT teams for problem resolution
• Deliver end‑user training and share knowledge with IT colleagues
• Propose improvements and participate in IT projects across the global division
• Manage desktop devices and printers
• Work autonomously and report to the IT Lead or IT Manager

Required Experience

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in network and system administration

Technical Skills

• Networking
• Firewall technologies
• Hardware lifecycle management
• Software lifecycle management
• Linux & Windows administration
• Virtualization (VMware), build & test tools
• Active Directory & user management