Infrastructure Architect

We have an exciting opportunity in our Infrastructure team for an experienced Architect to join us on a permanent basis.

You will provide technical design expertise for the continual development of the Howdens network and infrastructure technology landscape. 

What will I be doing as an Infrastructure Architect?

• Identifying improvements to systems to exploit investments
• Ensuring changes to our landscape are in line with technology standards and original designs, while meeting our strategic goal
• Strategically consulted and influences an annual budget of approximately £30million, which includes capital expenditures for infrastructure upgrades and maintenance, as well as security and operational costs for ongoing support and services.
• The role does not have any direct reports but works closely with the wider IT teams of 250+ employees, including network engineers, system administrators, and support staff, to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of infrastructure projects.
• Govern the infrastructure that supports over 12,000 users across multiple locations, (Depot, Manufacturing, and Corporate Office), ensuring high availability, performance, and security of the network and systems.
• Document and develop in-depth knowledge of Howdens' existing network infrastructure architecture and technology portfolio to identify future areas for investment and consolidation, ensuring informed decision-making.
• Create a high-level reference architecture including supporting Key Design Decisions (KDDs) and support Low-Level Design (LLD) to provide a clear and consistent framework for infrastructure development.

What we need from you

Experience across a range of infrastructure technologies including but not limited to:

• Cloud infrastructure and Services
• Infrastructure as Code
• Microsoft 365
• Virtualisation technologies
• Networking
• Security
• Database technologies
• Storage
• Windows servers
• Windows clients
• AIX and Linux servers
• Experience in infrastructure designs (IaaS and PaaS)
• Excellent understanding of best practice infrastructure and network architectures
• Broad knowledge of IT and industry best practices
• A good working knowledge of IP, Ethernet, routing and switching within LAN/WAN/Data Centre/ Public Cloud environments
• Understanding of Software Defined Networking
• Experienced in network security products, for example Firewalls, IPS/IDS

What we can offer you

• Grade 4
• Competitive salary and annual company bonus
• Company car or car allowance
• Private medical insurance
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days
• Staff Discount

How to apply

Good luck with your application.  Before you apply, please speak to your manager, so that they are aware of your interest in this role.  You will also need to attach a CV and Cover Letter as part of your application.  Please take note that this advert is a summary of the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change.  If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact the Hiring Manager Carl Moreton or Sam Wiggins, Recruitment Advisor.