National IT Specialist - Network Infrastructure

National IT Specialist – Network Infrastructure

Agency: Supportive Bridge Staffing

Client: Aldi (National IT Department)

Location: Atherstone National Office (Hybrid: 2 days/week remote, 3 days in office)

Salary Range: £37,685 – £54,530 per annum (Starting at £37,685)

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (18 Months)

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (In-office flexi-time available)

About the Role

At Supportive Bridge Staffing, we partner with top-tier organizations to match exceptional technical talent with rewarding positions. On behalf of Aldi, we are looking for a National IT Specialist (Network Infrastructure) to manage and support core network operations powering over 1,200 stores and 14 Regional Distribution Centres.

This is a dynamic 18-month contract combining hands-on technical management with project coordination, vendor management, and second/third-level support across a large-scale enterprise environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Network Operations & Delivery: Lead the day-to-day operations of LAN, WAN, and WLAN technologies across national infrastructure to ensure peak performance and minimal downtime.

• Support & Escalations: Provide 2nd and 3rd-level support to stores and regional teams, escalating complex issues to external service partners when required.

• Project & Vendor Coordination: Develop network rollout plans, manage external vendors, handle purchase orders, and coordinate internal/external resources for hardware and software deployments.

• Testing & Security: Conduct rigorous testing of software updates, configuration changes, and hardware installs; ensure compliance with internal policies, legal requirements, and industry standards.

• Documentation & Continuous Improvement: Maintain network topology documentation, optimize workflows, and advise team leadership on emerging technologies and budget forecasts.

What We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Strong background in network administration supporting core business environments.

• Hands-on experience installing, maintaining, and configuring routers, firewalls, and switches.

• Working knowledge of LAN/WLAN technologies (Juniper, Cisco Meraki) and zoning concepts (e.g., DMZ).

• Conceptual understanding of WAN technologies (MPLS, SD-WAN, routing).

• Proven experience in vendor/service delivery management and coordinating external project resources.

• Proficient with Microsoft Office (especially Excel) with excellent documentation and communication skills.

• Logical, detail-oriented, and capable of prioritizing tasks under pressure.

Desirable Criteria:

• Professional certifications such as JNCIP, CCNA, or equivalent.

• Familiarity with industry standards (PCI DSS, ISO27001, ITILv4).

• Experience with VPN configuration, maintenance, and structured cabling standards.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible Hybrid Working: 2 days remote work per week with in-office flexi-time.

• Generous Leave: 5 weeks of annual leave plus Bank Holidays.

• Health & Wellbeing: Access to a 24/7 confidential Virtual GP service for colleagues and children, plus Private Medical Insurance (after 4 years service).

• Financial & Lifestyle Benefits: Pension scheme, company sick pay, enhanced parental leave, and access to the MyBenefits portal (gym discounts, cycle-to-work scheme, health cash plans).

• Professional Growth: Full training provided and opportunities to advise on enterprise-level IT infrastructure.

⚠️ Important Application Requirements

• Commute: Applicants must live within a 90-minute commute of the Atherstone National Office.

• Sponsorship: Please note that this role does not fulfill the criteria for UK visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.