Principal Engineer (Network Cloud)

TL;DR

Principal Engineer (Network Cloud): Designing and optimizing BT's private cloud infrastructure for on-premise network functions with an accent on scalability, stability, and high availability. Focus on guiding architectural roadmaps, managing the full infrastructure stack (Openstack, K8s, Networking), and leading technical decisions for large-scale datacenters.

Location: Hybrid (3 days in office) in Manchester, London, or Ipswich (Ipswich available for existing BT colleagues only)

Company

hirify.global is the UK’s leading communications group and the holding company behind brands including BT, EE, Openreach, and Plusnet.

What you will do

• Act as the Design Authority and Subject Matter Expert for Network Cloud platforms.
• Develop 3-5 year architectural roadmaps and align vendor trends with product lifecycles.
• Design and optimize all layers of the infrastructure stack, including networking, compute, hypervisors, storage, and Kubernetes.
• Guide the technical team in producing world-class solutions while balancing innovation with operational stability.
• Lead technical investigations and provide expert support during major incidents.
• Collaborate with and influence senior stakeholders across the group to ensure platforms meet business needs.

Requirements

• Deep SME knowledge of Openstack, Networking, Compute, Storage, Linux, and Kubernetes.
• Technical expertise in Fixed and Mobile telecom networks (5G, Voice, Broadband).
• Strong commercial acumen for constructing business cases and delivering cost-effective solutions.
• Advanced stakeholder management skills for negotiating with senior customers and vendors.
• Expert-level problem-solving capabilities in multi-vendor environment.
• Must be based in or able to work from Manchester, London, or Ipswich.

Culture & Benefits

• 15% on-target bonus and car allowance.
• Comprehensive health care and private virtual GP appointments for UK colleagues.
• BT Pension scheme with a 10% employer contribution.
• Equal family leave: 18 weeks at full pay, 8 weeks at half pay, and 26 weeks at statutory rate.
• Enhanced women’s health support including menopause and cancer screening help.
• 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays), increasing with service.