IT Operations Engineer Systems and Networking

Are you an experienced IT Infrastructure professional looking for a technical leadership role within a dynamic and rewarding educational environment?

IT Operations Engineer – Systems and Networking Location: Melksham, Wiltshire Job Type: Full-time, On-site We’re recruiting on behalf of a prestigious independent school seeking a skilled IT Operations Engineer to take a lead role in managing and developing their IT infrastructure.

This is a hands-on, site-based role where you’ll act as the school’s network specialist, ensuring reliable, secure, and future-proofed IT systems that support teaching, learning, and administration.

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced infrastructure or network engineer who thrives on technical challenges and is passionate about continuous improvement within an education setting.

Key Responsibilities: Lead on the design, maintenance, and improvement of the school’s network infrastructure — including firewalls, switching, routing, Wi-Fi, and network security.

Manage and support all core IT services such as servers, storage, telephony, and cloud-based systems.

Administer and optimise Microsoft 365 services, including SharePoint, Exchange Online, Teams, and Azure AD.

Act as the senior escalation point for complex technical issues across the infrastructure and end-user support.

Ensure safeguarding policies and monitoring are fully embedded within IT systems.

Manage Windows Server environments and integrations with Windows and Apple client devices.

Maintain robust system backups and perform regular test restores to ensure data integrity.

Plan and deliver IT service improvements and infrastructure upgrades in line with the school’s strategic goals.

Collaborate closely with the Head of IT Services and colleagues to shape the IT roadmap.

Support IT projects that align with school development priorities.

Provide excellent end-user support, ensuring a high standard of customer service across the school community.

What We’re Looking For: Proven experience in managing enterprise-level network infrastructure (routing, switching, VLANs, wireless networks, firewalls). Strong working knowledge of Windows Server environments and Microsoft 365 administration.

Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting complex infrastructure and systems issues.

Solid understanding of IT security best practices, GDPR, and safeguarding principles.

Experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions.

Ability to work independently, with a proactive and solutions-focused approach.

Organised, methodical, and capable of managing multiple priorities.

Excellent communication skills with a strong customer service ethos.

Desirable Skills: Experience managing Fortinet firewalls.

Familiarity with VMware virtualisation and SAN technologies.

Knowledge of scripting/automation (e.g.

PowerShell). Experience in educational environments, understanding school-specific systems.

Experience with web filtering, monitoring tools, and software deployment via tools like Intune or PDQ Deploy.

Why Join?

Opportunity to take ownership of the school’s critical IT infrastructure.

A collaborative, professional environment where you can make a tangible impact on education.

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Scope for professional development and growth.

The chance to work in a unique and fulfilling educational setting.

If you’re a technically skilled IT professional with a passion for education and a track record of delivering robust IT infrastructure, we’d love to hear from you.