Overview We are recruiting Senior Application Operations Engineers to work within the TI (International) Engineering and DF Engineering teams, which form part of the Specialist Operational Services function in Digital, Data & Technology (DDaT). The SOS team supports NCAs sensitive front-line IT services and works with Digital Forensics and Targeted Interception services, including International deployments. The role supports the NCAs mission to protect the public from serious and organised crime and involves developing and provisioning technology services to enhance intelligence collection, surveillance and digital forensics capabilities. Location note: For roles based in London, the contractual place of work is Stratford. The Stratford site is expected to become operational from November 2025 to March 2026; during the interim period you may perform duties from Vauxhall or another reasonable location. As Stratford will be your contractual place of work, any subsequent move from a temporary location will not entitle you to payments for travel time or costs under the Relocation and Excess Travel Policy. Regular international travel will be required for this role. Role Context The Targeted Interception (TI) International Engineering function is responsible for deployment, configuration and support of high-end technical capabilities used within the Integrated Communications Intelligence (ICI) department, wider policing partners, and overseas partners. The Digital Forensics (DF) engineering function supports deployment, configuration and support of high-end digital forensics tools. The post holder will join a small team of IT professionals and will help ensure SOS networks receive full critical support, upgrades, development and maintenance. The role aligns to the Government Digital and Data career framework at Senior Application Operations Engineer level. Responsibilities

Deliver 1st, 2nd and mainly 3rd line support of technical systems to a professional standard, adapting to and meeting user requirements. Install new hardware and configure a range of operating systems (Windows Server 2019, 2022; Windows 10/11) and virtual environments (VMware, Hyper-V); use containerized technologies where appropriate. Maintain and upgrade systems in line with technical requirements for the business area; an understanding of network protocols is beneficial. Ensure security is maintained for all SOS services; update high-level and low-level designs and associated documentation. Travel between sites may be required; a full, clean UK Driving Licence is desirable. Support BAU activities to deliver 2nd/3rd line support and assist 1st/2nd line functions when required to maintain service levels. Install hardware (desktops, displays, laptops) and software (updates, licensing management, asset management). Identify obsolescence early and coordinate funding/approvals to avoid outages. Create and maintain system documentation, including High Level Designs (HLD) and Low Level Designs (LLD). Contribute to continual improvement by researching new technologies and applying innovative solutions. Build and manage client images and deployments using Windows Deployment Server or similar tools. Apply patches and perform upgrades using standard IT tooling; configure Group Policies for secure operation. Manage DHCP/DNS services and handle certificate management; renewals and requests as required. Maintain servers within the current network and provide support to the wider SOS team; mentor and upskill colleagues; contribute to briefing sessions and training material. Lead and contribute to project work introducing new technologies to meet requirements. Develop an understanding of digital forensic principles; basic networking knowledge to troubleshoot server/network issues. Manage storage provisioning for IT systems and Active Directory upgrades/architecture in line with best practice.

Requirements / Qualifications

Experience maintaining software and applications on servers or end-user devices; configuration of Active Directory, Group Policies and certificate management. Basic knowledge of servers, storage systems, and virtualization; ability to install and configure operating systems and related software. Problem solving, clear communication, teamwork, adaptability, fault finding and the ability to document processes and knowledge. On-call availability may be required; an on-call allowance applies per the remuneration policy. Full, clean UK driving licence desirable. Security requirements: developed vetting (level) and baseline personnel security checks; nationality requirements apply. Qualifications: ITIL V3/V4 Foundation or higher, degree in Computer Science/Information Systems, Microsoft certifications, and VMware knowledge are desirable (desirable criteria used in tie-breaks).

Benefits and Other Information

Salary: £55,575 with employer contribution of £16,100 to Civil Service Pension Scheme. Leave: New entrants receive 26 days annual leave, rising to 31 days after 5 years, plus 8 bank holidays (up to 31 days for certain cases). Flexible working options, learning and development opportunities, and various employee benefits (loans, housing schemes, discounts, and staff networks). On-going vetting and pre-employment checks required; successful candidates must meet security requirements.

This vacancy uses the Success Profiles framework (Behaviours, Experience, Technical Skills).

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