Lead Network Architect

Role: Lead Network Architect with Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

Type: Contract (6 Months)

Location: Bristol, Birmingham & London, UK

Working Model: Hybrid (3 days per week in office)

The Role

We are seeking a highly hands-on Lead Network Architect to eliminate manual network configurations and drive Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC). You will translate low-level designs into production-grade automation workflows, building robust CI/CD pipelines for mission-critical Cisco data centers.

What You’ll Do

• Build and optimize CI/CD pipelines for automated network changes and migrations.
• Champion GitOps principles, treating Git as the ultimate source of truth with strict pipeline gates and automated rollbacks.
• Integrate automation seamlessly across enterprise platforms including NDFC, NetBox, ServiceNow, and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform.

Must-Have Skills

• Networking: Deep expertise in Cisco NX-OS, VXLAN BGP-EVPN, vPC, and Cisco NDFC.
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
• Automation: Python (REST APIs, data modeling), YAML, JSON, and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform (AAP).
• CI/CD & Testing: GitHub/GitLab workflows, pyATS, and Genie for pre- and post-change validation.
• Governance: Experience working in strictly regulated environments requiring detailed LLD documentation (FCA / PRA standards).