Overview
Thorn SDS is a specialist Managed Service Provider based in Alton, Hampshire. We empower technology professionals and organisations across the Space, Defence, and Security sectors — and now, we’re expanding our team with an experienced Senior Server Engineer who’s ready to drive resilient, secure infrastructure.
This is a full-time, on-site role (5 days per week) at a secure location in Hereford. You’ll be operating at SFIA Level 5, taking technical ownership of server platforms and supporting mission-critical compute environments in specialist settings.
Security Clearance
Due to the nature of the work, you must hold – or be eligible to obtain – a high level of National Security Clearance. (See: Gov.UK – United Kingdom Security Vetting)
Some UK travel with overnight stays may be required.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll lead the design, deployment and support of server infrastructure, getting hands-on across a broad range of responsibilities, including:
Designing, deploying and maintaining physical and virtual server platforms (Windows Server, Linux distributions, VMware, Hyper‑V)
Building and managing compute clusters, virtualisation hosts and hyperconverged infrastructure
Implementing and supporting enterprise storage integration, SAN/NAS and backup/restore solutions
Automating server provisioning, configuration management and patching using tools such as Ansible, PowerShell, or equivalent
Hardening servers to meet security standards, implementing host-based security controls and working with the security team on compliance
Monitoring server health, capacity planning and performance tuning with suitable tooling and processes
Troubleshooting complex platform issues and supporting test and acceptance activities in controlled environments
Working with cloud teams to deliver hybrid and cloud-native compute solutions where required
Contributing to PI (Program Increment) planning, documentation, runbooks and cross-functional delivery
Guiding and enabling colleagues, with scope to supervise or mentor more junior engineers
What You’ll Bring
Proven experience as a Senior Server Engineer or similar role delivering enterprise server infrastructure
Strong technical capability across:
Windows Server and Linux administration
Virtualisation platforms (VMware, Hyper‑V, or equivalent)
Storage and backup technologies
Automation and scripting (PowerShell, Bash, Ansible, etc.)
Monitoring, logging and capacity management
Security hardening and patch management
Excellent troubleshooting skills with the ability to resolve complex platform issues
Relevant certifications (e.g., MCSA/MCSE, RHCE, VMware VCP) are desirable but not essential
Strong communicator and collaborator, able to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams
Analytical mindset with attention to detail and strong documentation habits
Comfortable adapting to evolving technologies and industry best practice
Previous Defence experience preferred
What’s In It For You
25 days Annual Leave (plus Bank Holidays)
Employer Pension Contributions
Group Life Insurance
Dental Cashback Plan
Health Cashback Plan
Wellbeing Services (includes GP, Physio and Savings Benefits)
Thorn Wellbeing Support Contribution
Cycle to Work Scheme
Supported Training & Personal Development Opportunities
Ready to Take the Lead?
If you’re keen to advance your career in a high-stakes, fast-moving environment, we’d love to hear from you. Join Thorn SDS and become a key contributor to delivering secure, reliable server solutions where they matter most.
All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK.
Apply now and help shape the future of secure infrastructure.
