A Systems Engineer is a key technology professional responsible for designing, deploying and maintaining high-availability IT systems. They ensure robust, secure and high-performing enterprise infrastructure that supports business-critical operations. As technical architects, they bridge the gap between complex technical requirements and organisational IT needs, leveraging expertise in cloud computing, networking, security and automation to create resilient and adaptive IT ecosystems.
Systems Engineer role and responsibilities
System design and deploymentDevelop and implement high-availability systems across Linux and Windows platforms, ensuring:Security compliance (ISO 27001, NIST, GDPR, Cyber Essentials Plus)Performance optimisation for enterprise workloadsReliability and stability of IT infrastructureInfrastructure automationStreamline IT operations through intelligent automation strategies:Utilise infrastructure-as-code(IaC) tools like Terraform, Ansible and PuppetReduce manual workloads and improve system consistencyAutomation scripting in Python, Bash, or PowerShellNetwork and virtualisation managementManage complex technological environments by:Troubleshooting networking challenges (TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs, Load Balancing)Managing virtualisation platforms (VMware, Hyper-V, Citrix)Ensuring seamless cloud and on-prem integrationContinuous integration and monitoringImplement proactive system management through:CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins/GitLab)Advanced monitoring tools (Prometheus, Grafana, Splunk, ELK Stack)Rapid incident response and fault resolutionSecurity and resilienceDevelop robust security strategies focusing on:Disaster recovery planning and business continuity planningZero-trust security models and system hardeningVulnerability assessments and penetration testing
Systems Engineer key qualifications, skills and experience
Essential skills and experienceCloud and virtualisation:Multi-cloud expertise (AWS, Azure, GCP)Strong VMware and Kubernetes knowledgeAutomation and scripting:Infrastructure automation using Terraform, AnsibleProficiency in Python, Bash, or PowerShellOperating systems and networking:Expert-level Linux and Windows Server administrationActive Directory, Group Policy, DNS, VPN, Load BalancingSecurity and compliance:Experience with SIEM tools (Splunk, ELK)Understanding of ISO 27001, GDPR, Cyber Essentials PlusTechnical problem-solving:Ability to resolve server failures, cloud disruptions, security threatsDesirable certificationsAWS Solutions ArchitectCertified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions ArchitectCISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)Soft skillsStrong collaboration with cross-functional teamsAbility to translate technical concepts for business stakeholdersTechnical documentation experience (Confluence, JIRA, Markdown)
Looking for a systems engineer or a systems engineer job?
Access millions of skilled contract and permanent candidates at every level from support roles to C-suite, and pinpoint the talent you need using our industry-leading matching technology.Find your next hire
