Network DevOps Engineer

Network DevOps Engineer | Python & Automation Salary: Up to £55,000 depending on experience

Location: Stevenage, Bristol or Bolton

Working pattern: Hybrid, typically 2–3 days on-site per week, with additional attendance when required

Employment: Permanent

Are you an experienced Python Developer or DevOps Engineer looking to apply your software engineering skills to complex infrastructure automation?

We're recruiting for a leading UK defence technology organisation that's investing in modernising its network infrastructure and developing a more automated, software-driven environment.

This is an opportunity to join an established technical team and take a leading role in improving how network automation software is designed, developed, tested and deployed.

You don't need to be an experienced Network Engineer. The existing team already has that expertise. They're particularly interested in someone who can bring strong Python development, software engineering and DevOps experience.

The role You'll help build the software, automation tools and deployment processes used to manage complex physical and virtual network infrastructure.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing, developing and maintaining Python-based automation tools and applications.
  
  
• Developing and integrating REST and GraphQL APIs.
  
  
• Establishing automated software testing strategies and improving code quality.
  
  
• Building and maintaining CI/CD pipelines using GitLab.
  
  
• Using Ansible to automate network configuration and deployment.
  
  
• Developing and improving network Source of Truth applications.
  
  
• Introducing software engineering best practices including version control, code reviews and modular software design.
  
  
• Supporting colleagues in developing their software engineering and automation capabilities.
  
  

Skills and experience We're particularly interested in candidates with:

• Strong Python development skills including object-oriented programming, design patterns and writing maintainable code.
  
  
• Experience developing, integrating and testing APIs using technologies such as FastAPI, Django REST Framework or similar.
  
  
• Practical knowledge of Git, GitLab and CI/CD pipelines.
  
  
• Experience using Ansible for infrastructure or network automation.
  
  
• Knowledge of automated software testing and test frameworks.
  
  
• Experience with JSON, YAML and Jinja2.
  
  
• An understanding of networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, DNS, routing, switching and VLANs.
  
  
• Experience working within DevOps or Agile development environments.
  
  

Experience with Nautobot, PyATS, Cisco ACI, Catalyst Center, Linux/RHEL or OpenShift would be beneficial.

You don't need to meet every technical requirement. Strong software engineering experience, particularly Python development, is more important than having an extensive network engineering background.

Security and nationality requirements Due to the highly sensitive nature of the work, applicants must be sole British citizens.

The successful candidate must also be eligible to undergo comprehensive UK Government security vetting.

Applicants should be aware that:

• A substantial and verifiable UK residency history is required,
  
  
• Detailed background checks will be undertaken, including verification of employment, education, residential history and overseas activities.
  
  
• The screening process may include financial checks, criminal record checks, references and a formal security interview.
  
  
• Applicants must be willing to provide the necessary information and cooperate fully with the vetting process.
  
  

Periods spent living or working overseas will be assessed individually and do not automatically prevent an application.

Existing security clearance is not essential, provided you meet the nationality requirements and are able to obtain the necessary clearance.

Salary and benefits The employer offers a competitive package including:

• Salary up to £55,000 depending on experience.
  
  
• Annual company bonus of up to £2,500, subject to performance.
  
  
• Employer pension contributions of up to 8%, depending on employee contributions.
  
  
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
  
  
• Opportunities for paid overtime and additional flexi leave, subject to eligibility and business requirements.
  
  
• Enhanced parental leave arrangements.
  
  
• Professional development and technical training opportunities.
  
  
• Subsidised on-site facilities and free parking.
  
  
• Flexible working arrangements where business requirements allow.
  
  

Interested? This could be an excellent opportunity for a Python Developer, Software Engineer, DevOps Engineer or Infrastructure Automation Engineer looking to work on challenging technical systems within an established defence technology organisation.

Previous defence industry experience or existing security clearance is not essential.

If you have strong Python engineering skills and an interest in infrastructure automation, we'd be interested in hearing from you.

Apply with your CV or contact Electus Recruitment Solutions for a confidential discussion.