Contractor job Network Architect

* Design, plan, and implement scalable network architectures, ensuring efficient and secure network operations.* Manage and optimize network monitoring using SolarWinds to proactively identify issues and ensure system health.* Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot firewalls to protect the network from external and internal threats.* Manage and optimize Nexus switches for high availability and performance within the network.* Oversee and maintain F5 devices for load balancing, application delivery, and ensuring high availability of critical services.* Configure and optimize load balancers (LBs) and firewalls to manage traffic and ensure network security and resilience.* Administer ASR routers to support high-performance routing and efficient network traffic flow.* Manage and synchronize NTP sources to ensure accurate time settings across the network infrastructure.* Work closely with other IT teams to ensure seamless integration of network architecture with existing systems.* Troubleshoot and resolve network-related issues in a timely manner, ensuring minimal downtime and impact on operations.* Maintain comprehensive network documentation, including architecture diagrams, configurations, and procedures.* Stay up-to-date with emerging network technologies and recommend improvements to the current network infrastructure.Qualifications:* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).* Proven experience as a Network Architect or in a similar networking role.* Strong expertise with SolarWinds for network monitoring and management.* In-depth knowledge of firewall technologies (e.g., Palo Alto, Cisco ASA, Fortigate).* Hands-on experience with Nexus switches, including configuration, management, and troubleshooting.* Experience with F5 devices for load balancing and application delivery.* Proficiency in configuring and managing ASR routers for high-performance network routing.* Strong understanding of load balancing (LB) concepts and technologies.* Experience with NTP configuration and synchronization within large-scale networks.* Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to resolve complex network issues quickly.* Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment.Due to the nature and urgency of this post, candidates holding or who have held high level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Please note successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take up to a minimum 10 weeks. LA International is a HMG approved ICT Recruitment and Project Solutions Consultancy, operating globally from the largest single site in the UK as an IT Consultancy or as an Employment Business & Agency depending upon the precise nature of the work, for security cleared jobs or non-clearance vacancies, LA International welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people with diverse experience and backgrounds.Award Winning LA International, winner of the Recruiter Awards for Excellence, Best IT Recruitment Company, Best Public Sector Recruitment Company and overall Gold Award winner, has now secured the most prestigious business award that any business can receive, The Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade, for the second consecutive period.