DevOps Infrastructure IT Engineer Defence Sector Location: Bristol - Hybrid 3 days a week on site Employment: PermanentClearance: SC required (or eligible) — British Citizens onlyStart: ASAP (subject to vetting)About the RoleWe’re seeking a hands-on, pragmatic DevOps Infrastructure IT Engineer to design, build, deliver, and support secure on-premises infrastructure across both internal systems and client environments.This role is ideal for someone who thrives in highly secure, defence-aligned, fully on‑site engineering environments, working across the full stack—from Windows and Linux to firewalls, networking, virtualisation, and cyber security.You will act as both a practitioner and a technical lead, collaborating with project delivery teams to ensure infrastructure is robust, compliant, and delivered with precision.Important: This role is not cloud-focused. Candidates must demonstrate strong on‑prem engineering capability, Linux and Windows proficiency, and practical, step-by-step operational thinking.Key ResponsibilitiesInfrastructure Delivery & OperationsDeliver full lifecycle on‑prem infrastructure solutions: design - deploy - configure - document - support.Hands‑on ownership of:Windows Server, AD, Group Policy, DNS/DHCPLinux (Ubuntu / RHEL variants) – patching, updates, troubleshooting, CLI-based operationsVMware or Hyper‑V virtualisationFirewalls: Cisco ASA, Fortinet, Palo Alto (or equivalent)Networking: VLANs, subnets, routing, site‑to‑site VPNs, LAN/WANPerform system hardening, health checks, and security uplift aligned with defence standards.Maintain and improve documentation, build standards, runbooks, and technical processes.Technical RequirementsEssential:Strong experience with both Linux and Windows Server environments.Expert knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP.VMware or Hyper‑V virtualisation.Network configuration: VPNs, VLANs, routing, segmentation.Firewall configuration and secure boundary design.Patch management, vulnerability remediation, secure system build.Experience working in air‑gapped or secure on‑prem environments.Understanding of Cyber Essentials, Defence, or MoD security frameworks.Desirable (not mandatory):Microsoft certifications (MCSA, MS-102, AZ-104)VCP (VMware Certified Professional)CompTIA Security+ or equivalentPRINCE2 or ITIL FoundationSoft Skills & FitWe’re looking for someone who:Is a confident, capable on‑site engineer with strong customer presence.Loves hands-on problem solving in real infrastructure — not just high‑level architecture.Communicates clearly with clients and colleagues.Is adaptable across industries (defence, engineering, manufacturing).Performs well under pressure and delivers against deadlines.Is happy to "turn their hand to anything" across infrastructure delivery.Security & EligibilityTo meet MoD and client site requirements:British Citizenship is mandatory.Must have 5 years’ continuous, checkable UK residency.SC clearance required (or willingness/eligibility to undergo it).Why This Role Will Suit YouThis position is perfect if you enjoy:Working end-to-end on infrastructure—not just monitoring, not just cloud.Being hands-on with Linux and Windows admin every day.Building and supporting secure systems used by defence-aligned customers.Being part of a collaborative, on-site engineering culture.How to ApplyIf you’re a practical, detail-oriented engineer who thrives in hands‑on, secure on‑prem environments — we’d love to hear from you.Apply Now or DM for a confidential chat