Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.
Infrastructure Engineer (IT) - IAS
Location: based at Templecombe office, minimum 4 days/ week in office (hybrid)
Other: permanent, full-time, with <10% domestic and international travel
Step into a role where your technical expertise genuinely shapes the stability, security, and performance of critical systems across a global organisation!
What the role has to offer
Broad Variety & Meaningful Challenge - A dynamic role offering diverse work, complex technical challenges, and the chance to stay ahead of emerging technologies
Leadership & Influence - Opportunities to deputise for the Lead, mentor others, and represent the department in key meetings
Global Exposure with Balanced Travel - International and domestic collaboration with under 10% travel, ensuring broad exposure without heavy time away
Our Opportunity
Reporting to Head of Engineering Environment & Infrastructure for IAS (Integrated Airspace Protection Systems), you will take the lead in building and configuring and supporting the Systems IT infrastructure that underpins a wide range of high‑impact projects across the business, driving installation, setup, and seamless delivery from day one.
The ideal candidate is a proven infrastructure engineer with strong hands‑on experience managing Microsoft and RHEL environments, virtualisation platforms, and multi‑site systems. They bring advanced networking and security capability, confidently supporting complex infrastructures end‑to‑end while maintaining secure, stable operating environments. They are a skilled problem‑solver who can automate, optimise, and troubleshoot using modern scripting and configuration‑as‑code tools. They communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and maintain a customer‑focused approach while supporting both technical and non‑technical stakeholders. Self‑motivated and continuously learning, they work independently, mentor others, support global sites when required, and can meet security clearance requirements.
Building a Future, we can all trust.
Integrated Airspace Protection Systems (IAS) - our main purpose is to protect and defend. We provide rapid integrated solutions for detection, coordination, fire control, engagement and support. We cover three sectors: Surface Attack & Air Defence (UK), Air Defence (International) and Air Operations & Services as well as Space.
What we offer you
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our employees’ wellbeing and professional growth, which includes:
Performance-related bonus
Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00
28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (pro rata)
24 hours volunteering paid for
Private healthcare
Pension scheme
Life cover
24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app
Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
Gym membership discounts
Key Responsibilities and Tasks
Server & OS Management - Administer and maintain Microsoft and RHEL servers (physical & virtual), Windows 11 clients, and ensure secure, stable operating environments
Virtualisation & Hypervisors - Manage hypervisor technologies including VMware and Nvidia GRID virtualisation to support high‑performance workloads
Directory & Messaging Services - Configure and support Microsoft Active Directory, Exchange, and related identity and messaging services
Automation & Scripting - Use PowerShell and other automation tools to streamline configuration, deployments, and operational tasks
Patching & System Updates - Oversee server, client, Windows, and A/V updates to maintain compliance, security, and performance
Advanced Support & Vendor Alignment - Provide 3rd‑line technical support, mentor junior team members, and collaborate with third‑party vendors on hardware and software solutions
About You
At Thales, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. So even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply. It will take all of us working together to deliver solutions to the world’s most critical challenges.
Proven IT Infrastructure Expertise - Consolidated hands‑on experience supporting complex, multi‑site environments across servers, networks, Linux systems, and core infrastructure
Demonstrated Security & Advanced Networking Capability - Strong understanding of IT security principles with deeper networking skills and the ability to troubleshoot multi‑site technical issues end‑to‑end
Proven Analytical Problem‑Solving - Ability to analyse, diagnose, and resolve complex technical challenges with precision, creativity, and attention to detail
Demonstrated Communication & Collaboration - Clear written and verbal communication, able to translate technical concepts for non‑technical audiences and work effectively within a collaborative team
Acquired Customer‑Focused Mindset - Strong service orientation with the ability to prioritise workloads, manage deadlines, and deliver high‑quality support
Proven Self‑Motivation & Continuous Learning - Self‑driven, proactive, and committed to staying current with emerging technologies, including deepening Linux and networking expertise
Demonstrated Global Flexibility & Professional Background - Willingness to support global sites; engineering or science degree desirable but not essential, with the ability to obtain and maintain relevant security clearance
Ability to obtain and maintain relevant security clearance
If you’re ready to make an impact and grow your career in a high‑trust, high‑tech environment, apply now!
Security Clearance Requirement:
Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions. This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment.
To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.
Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels.
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At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role. Read more about our benefits here.
