Role Overview
As a System Engineer, you will lead the planning, testing, and deployment of critical system updates across diverse enterprise infrastructures. This includes managing regular and emergency patch cycles for operating systems, virtualization platforms, and network hardware. You will ensure systems remain secure, compliant, and highly available, minimizing operational impact during maintenance activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and execute patching strategies for Windows Server (2016–2022), Windows 10/11, and multiple Linux distributions including Ubuntu, Debian, and Red Hat.
- Administer and configure WSUS to manage Windows update distribution and compliance.
- Deploy firmware and security patches for Cisco and Juniper network devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
- Manage patching and lifecycle updates for VMware environments, including ESXi hosts, vCenter, and vLCM.
- Conduct pre-change testing, configuration backups, and post-implementation validation to ensure system integrity.
- Support vulnerability remediation initiatives and contribute to security audit requirements.
- Deliver on-site maintenance and patching at customer locations, primarily within Network Rail and Transport for London environments.
- Prepare detailed change documentation and implementation reports in alignment with ITIL change control procedures.
- Communicate clearly with stakeholders before, during, and after maintenance windows to ensure transparency and coordination.
- Track patch compliance and lead remediation efforts to close security gaps.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of five years in systems or infrastructure engineering roles with direct experience in enterprise patch management.
- Proven expertise with Windows and Linux system administration, including patching and update management.
- Hands-on experience with VMware vSphere, including host and vCenter maintenance.
- Working knowledge of Cisco and Juniper network device firmware updates and configurations.
- Experience managing HPE and Dell server firmware updates.
- Solid understanding of change control processes and maintenance window coordination.
- Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with backup technologies and data protection practices.
- Scripting skills using PowerShell for automation tasks.
- ITIL Foundation certification.
- Vendor certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, or Juniper.
- Prior work within transportation or critical infrastructure sectors, particularly Network Rail or Transport for London.
Work Environment
This is a hybrid role based in London (E16), combining office-based work, remote support, and on-site visits across Greater London and nearby regions. The position may require occasional evening or overnight work to align with planned maintenance windows. Regular travel to customer sites is expected.
Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with London market standards
- Company pension contribution scheme
- 26 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
- Access to an employee resource portal
- Support for professional development and certification programs
- Exposure to a wide range of enterprise technologies and multi-vendor environments
- Opportunities to work on mission-critical infrastructure systems
