Operational Technology Engineer

Key Responsibilities

Operational Technology Platforms

Operate and maintain the Foundry operational networks and supporting platforms.

Support the automation tooling and systems used for imaging, testing, and validation.

Assist with Linux-based system builds, OS imaging, and test tooling (Python-based).

Participate in maintaining cross-site file synchronisation and golden image governance.

Network, Compute, and Access

Support a network environment with hundreds of switches and thousands of ports.

Assist with VPN's, remote access platforms, and secure client connectivity for staging and testing.

Operate and maintain on-prem Nutanix clusters hosting production tooling and remote access services.

Administer Jira and Confluence environments used by the Foundry team.

Security, Compliance, Backup, and DR

Support network and platform hardening using segmentation, firewalls, and access controls.

Assist with Palo Alto firewall operations, Panorama management, licensing and updates.

Support GitLab operations for CI and source control availability.

Participate in backup operations and disaster recovery testing to meet RPO/RTO objectives.

Operate within ISO certified environments (ISO 9001).

Reliability and Observability

Monitor and respond to alerts across network, compute, backup, UPS, and facility systems.

Participate in change control processes, patching windows, and configuration management.

Assist with diagnosing and resolving complex, multi-layer operational issues.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Foundry Operations on capacity planning and facility optimisation.

Collaborate with Product and Software teams to extend automation and integrate new technologies.

Coordinate with telecoms providers, vendors, and internal teams for connectivity and infrastructure delivery.

Support testing standards and new hardware introduction with engineering and verification teams.

Health, Safety and Environment

Work in accordance with the company health and safety policies.

Reporting of hazards, incidents, or unsafe working conditions.

Using equipment and tools in accordance with safety guidance and training.

Data Protection and Confidentiality

Comply with all company information security, confidentiality, and data protection policies when handling company systems, customer data, or proprietary information.

T echnology Environment

Networking and security (Palo Alto, Panorama, EVPN/BGP), Linux, Nutanix, GitLab, Puppet/Ansible, automation tooling, telemetry and alerting platforms.

This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work expected in the role. It is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Duties and responsibilities may change from time to time in line with business needs.

Skills and Experience

Essential

Strong networking fundamentals: routing, switching, VPN's, segmentation, and firewall concepts.

Solid Linux experience and familiarity with virtualisation (KVM, Nutanix).

Experience supporting automation or imaging platforms in production environments.

Familiarity with configuration management or automation tools (Ansible, Puppet, CI/CD).

Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware, network, and software layers.

Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable

Exposure to ISO 9001 and/or ISO 13485 environments.

Experience with Palo Alto firewalls, Panorama, or Cisco DNA.

Familiarity with AI/HPC hardware, or high-density rack environments.

GitLab administration experience.

Qualifications

Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related technical discipline

Or

Equivalent professional experience in operational infrastructure, network engineering, or systems engineering.

Additional Information

Line Management

This role has no line management responsibilities.

Work Environment

This role operates in a professional office environment, a computer integration facility, and server rooms. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and conferencing equipment.

Physical demands

The role may require periods of standing, walking, and working with computer hardware. Occasional lifting and handling of equipment may be required. Where required, appropriate training and equipment will be provided.

AHEAD is committed to supporting employees through reasonable adjustments where in line with the Equality Act 2010.

Work Hours

Standard hours of work are typically 8 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday. Occasional evening and weekend work may be necessary.

Travel

This role may require up to 10% travel, which may include international.