Network Engineer

We are currently hiring a Network Engineer L1 for an exciting client engagement.

Role: Network Engineer L1

Location: Oxford AND Somerset, UK

Position: Contract (IR35 Inside)

Duration: 12 months (with possible extension)

Must work 5 days per week from the client location, with occasional weekend support required

First 6 Month is Oxford then resource needs to move to Somerset until project end date. Note Somerset is a factory

Please Note: Must work 5 days from the Client location Oxford UK.

Job Summary

We are looking for a proactive and technically skilled Network Engineer (L1) to provide operational support for enterprise network infrastructure, including routing, switching, wireless, SD-WAN, and network security technologies. The role involves monitoring network health, handling incidents, troubleshooting connectivity issues, supporting implementations, and escalating complex issues to L2/L3 teams when required.

The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience with Cisco networking technologies, WLAN environments, firewalls, and network monitoring tools while working within an ITIL-driven support environment.

Key Responsibilities

Network Operations & Support

Monitor and support enterprise LAN, WAN, Wireless, and SD-WAN environments. Perform basic configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of Cisco routers and switches. Support Layer 2 and Layer 3 technologies including:

• VLANs
• STP/RSTP
• Trunking
• EtherChannel
• OSPF
• EIGRP
• BGP (basic support)

Carry out switch port configurations, VLAN assignments, and connectivity troubleshooting. Assist in network device installation, upgrades, and configuration changes.

• Wireless & SD-WAN Support
• Support Cisco Wireless infrastructure and Cisco WLC 9800 controllers.
• Monitor and troubleshoot enterprise Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
• Provide operational support for Cisco Meraki devices:
• MX Security Appliances
• MS Switches
• MR Access Points
• Assist with SD-WAN monitoring and incident resolution.
• Security & Access Control
• Assist in managing Palo Alto PA-1140 and Cisco firewall environments.
• Support firewall implementation and connectivity troubleshooting.
• Monitor and support Cisco ISE and NAC solutions.
• Assist with Zscaler ZIA and ZPA incident handling and user access issues.
• Follow security policies and procedures to maintain network compliance.
• Monitoring & Incident Management
• Monitor network infrastructure using Zabbix and other monitoring platforms.
• Perform first-level troubleshooting for network alerts and incidents.
• Handle service requests, incidents, and escalations within SLA targets.
• Participate in P2, P3, and P4 incident resolution activities.
• Escalate critical issues to L2/L3 teams with proper diagnostic information.
• Maintain incident records and update ticketing systems regularly.

Change & Operational Support

• Execute approved network changes under guidance from senior engineers.
• Support patching, device upgrades, and routine maintenance activities.
• Maintain network documentation, inventory records, and standard operating procedures.
• Participate in planned maintenance and weekend activities as required.

Collaboration

• Work closely with Service Desk, Security, Server, Cloud, and Application teams.
• Coordinate with vendors for issue resolution and hardware replacement.
• Contribute to knowledge-sharing sessions and team training initiatives.

Technical Skills Required

• Routing & Switching
• VLANs
• STP, RSTP
• Trunking
• EtherChannel
• Basic OSPF, EIGRP, BGP knowledge
• Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series
• Wireless & SD-WAN
• Cisco WLC 9800
• Cisco Enterprise Wireless
• Cisco Meraki MX, MS, MR
• SD-WAN Fundamentals
• Security
• Palo Alto PA-1140 Firewall
• Cisco Firewalls
• Cisco ISE & NAC
• Zscaler ZIA/ZPA
• Basic Network Security Concepts
• Monitoring & Troubleshooting Tools
• Zabbix
• Wireshark
• Nmap
• Cisco Packet Tracer
• Network Management
• Cisco Catalyst Center (Cisco DNA Center)
• Network Monitoring and Reporting

ITIL Processes

• Incident Management
• Change Management
• Service Request Management

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer or related field.
• 5 - 8 years of experience in Network Operations or Infrastructure Support.
• Good understanding of routing, switching, wireless, and firewall technologies.
• Experience working in an ITIL-based support environment.
• Excellent troubleshooting and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a 24x7 support environment.

Preferred Certifications

• CCNA (Preferred)
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (Wireless/Security)
• Cisco Meraki Fundamentals (Optional)
• ITIL Foundation (Optional)

Key Competencies
This role is ideal for engineers looking to build expertise in Enterprise Networking, Cisco Technologies, Wireless, SD-WAN, Security, and Network Operations while progressing toward L2/L3 engineering responsibilities.