3rd Line Engineer

We are working in partnership with a managed service provider based in Stoke-on-Trent to find an experienced 3rd Line Engineer with a strong background in IT support/systems, networks, and infrastructure technologies. You will play a crucial role in providing advanced technical support and troubleshooting expertise to resolve complex issues escalated from lower support tiers. Responsibilities Conduct thorough root cause analysis to identify the underlying causes. Perform system administration tasks, including configuration, maintenance, and optimisation of servers, operating systems, databases, and other IT infrastructure components. Configure/manage network devices, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points, to ensure optimal performance, security, and reliability of the network infrastructure. Monitor the performance, availability, and health of IT systems and services using monitoring tools and platforms, promptly responding to alerts, and proactively addressing potential issues. Coordinate and implement changes to IT systems and configurations following established change management processes and procedures. Maintain accurate documentation of IT systems, configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides, and share knowledge with peers and lower support tiers. Oversee and execute the patch management process, ensuring that all systems, applications, and infrastructure components are regularly updated with the latest security patches and updates. Support the transition team in ensuring the smooth transition of services, from Delivery to Operational support. Develop/maintain automation scripts and tools to streamline IT operations. Automate system administration tasks, deployment processes, and monitoring/alerting mechanisms. Utilise scripting languages like PowerShell, Python, or others for automation solutions. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Relevant industry certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, Cisco Certified Network Professional, CompTIA Server+) are highly desirable. Proven experience in a 3rd line support or similar role, with a strong background in IT support, systems administration, and network management in enterprise environments. Expertise in troubleshooting complex technical issues across multiple IT domains, including servers, operating systems (Windows, Linux), networks, databases, and cloud services. Proficiency in system administration tasks, such as installation, configuration, and maintenance of server hardware, operating systems, virtualisation platforms (VMware, Hyper-V), and containerisation technologies (Docker, Kubernetes). Strong understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and technologies, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, routing/switching, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless networks. Experience with infrastructure monitoring and management tools, such as Nagios, Zabbix, SolarWinds, or similar platforms, for performance monitoring, alerting, and reporting. Security Clearance You must have or be able to obtain SC clearance, with a view to obtaining DV clearance. Further information to follow at your request