National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
Platform Engineer
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About the Role
Our world-leading Time & Frequency department is seeking a Platform Engineer with experience in scripting and automation.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure.
Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world-first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems (such as GPS) – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming, and spoofing. This will underpin essential services, including:
- Telecommunications
- Online banking
- Emergency response
- Transport networks
- Wider digital and data-driven operations
Together, these services form the backbone of modern society - and your leadership will help ensure they remain secure, reliable, and robust even if global navigation satellite systems fail.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality code/automation/runbooks for the build and support of servers and software
- Continually improve knowledge and skills to keep abreast of technological advancements, understand the impact of your work, and communicate opportunities with your team
- Demonstrate strong, clear, and engaging communication skills, whilst contributing effectively as part of a team
- Security mindset
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:
Essential
- Knowledge of Windows or Linux, with a willingness to develop skills across both
- Scripting and automation (such as Bash, PowerShell, Packer, Ansible, Terraform, Docker, etc.)
- A degree (or equivalent experience) in Computer Science, or a closely related discipline
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Highly-desirable
- Python
- Software development in a Unix/Linux environment
- Internet protocols and services (such as SMTP, DNS, HTTP, etc.)
- VMWare
- Programmatic / automation mindset that streamlines workflows, whilst collaborating with teams to improve platform support
It is also desirable if you have an interest in Physics, measurements, and communications, for example:
- Time and frequency measurement and time scale steering
- Real-time monitoring and control of electronic hardware
- Satellite communication, optical fibre, and GNSS-based systems
Please note: We strongly encourage applications from candidates who may not meet all of the listed criteria.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency, and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
However, to work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert, therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering, and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview
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NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled, and black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity. As part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits, and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people, and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
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