Principal Network Engineer - Cisco Network Engineer
London (Hybrid – 60/40 split)
Permanent | Competitive Salary + Benefits
About the Opportunity
We’re partnering with an innovative full-fibre broadband provider transforming connectivity across London. This fast-growing organisation is delivering next-generation FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) infrastructure, enabling ultra-fast, reliable connectivity for homes and businesses.
They’re now looking for a Principal Network Engineer to play a pivotal role in shaping, scaling, and optimising a carrier-grade network in a high-performance, fast-paced environment.
The Role
As a Principal Network Engineer, you’ll act as a technical authority and escalation point, leading the design, delivery, and evolution of a cutting-edge network infrastructure.
This is a hands-on, project-focused role, where you’ll own initiatives end-to-end — from design and scoping through to implementation, optimisation, and ongoing support.
You’ll also have the opportunity to mentor junior engineers and collaborate across key stakeholder groups, contributing to strategic network decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, delivery, and optimisation of network infrastructure projects
- Own the full project lifecycle from scoping to implementation and improvement
- Act as the final escalation point for complex network faults and issues
- Ensure network availability and performance meet strict SLA targets
- Design and implement scalable, resilient carrier-grade solutions
- Monitor network health and respond proactively to alarms and incidents
- Produce high-quality documentation (HLD, LLD, migration plans, procedures)
- Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
- Provide out-of-hours support as part of an on-call rota
- Mentor and support junior engineers
Skills & Experience Required
- Strong experience in network project delivery (ISP/telco environment preferred)
- Proven expertise with carrier-grade Cisco networking equipment
- Deep knowledge of:
- BGP, OSPF, IS-IS
- MPLS & MPLS VPNs
- IPv6, multicast networking
- Firewalls and network security
- Strong troubleshooting skills, including packet capture analysis
- Experience with network monitoring tools (e.g. SolarWinds, Nagios, PRTG)
- Ability to work autonomously and lead technical projects
- Experience producing detailed technical documentation
Certifications:
- CCIE (Service Provider or Enterprise) or equivalent experience highly desirable
Nice to Have
- Network security expertise
- Exposure to PON or fibre infrastructure environments
- Scripting/automation skills
- Experience with Software Defined Networking (SDN)
- Progress towards additional advanced certifications
Why Apply?
- Be part of a company transforming London’s digital infrastructure
- Work with cutting-edge fibre and carrier-grade technologies
- Opportunity to lead impactful projects and influence network strategy
- Supportive, values-driven culture focused on excellence, innovation, and collaboration
- Hybrid working model with flexibility
Apply today or reach out for a confidential discussion to learn more about this opportunity.
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