IT Systems Manager – Linux, Infrastructure & Networking

About the role

We are seeking an experienced IT Systems Manager to lead a specialist IT function within a highly innovative engineering environment. Based in Oxford with a hybrid schedule (three days in the office), you will report to senior IT leadership and own the infrastructure that underpins complex laboratory and engineering systems.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a small specialist IT team, managing daily priorities and mentoring members.
• Own and maintain Linux server provisioning, OS configuration and overall infrastructure readiness.
• Design, implement and secure lab and engineering network environments.
• Configure and support managed switches, firewalls, VLANs, routing and network segmentation.
• Integrate specialist hardware and bespoke equipment into production environments.
• Drive automation, improve documentation, provisioning processes and operational standards.
• Produce technical documentation, runbooks and best‑practice guides.
• Collaborate closely with infrastructure, DevOps, engineering and wider technology teams.

Required profile

• Proven experience as an Infrastructure Engineer or Technical Team Lead.
• Hands‑on approach while providing leadership to a small technical team.
• Background in highly technical settings where IT supports engineering, manufacturing, scientific or research activities.

Required skills

• Strong Linux systems administration.
• Physical Linux server provisioning and deployment.
• Configuration of managed switches and firewalls.
• Design and implementation of VLANs, routing and network segmentation.
• Automation scripting and process improvement.
• Technical documentation and runbook creation.

What we offer

• Competitive salary between £60,000 and £75,000 per year.
• Hybrid working model (3 days onsite).
• Excellent benefits package.