Mission freelance Network Operations Engineer - Linux & Kubernetes - DV Cleared

Network Operations Engineer - Locations can be London, Farnborough or Corsham
Must have an Active DV Clearance

You will work across traditional networking and cloud-native technologies, maintaining air-gapped Kubernetes environments, improving network performance, and driving automation across critical platforms.
The position is ideal for an experienced Network Operations Engineer with strong networking, Kubernetes, and Linux expertise who enjoys solving complex technical challenges within secure environments.

Network Operations Engineer Responsibilities

Configure, maintain, and optimise secure cloud platform network infrastructure.
Support air-gapped Kubernetes environments and maintain secure cross-cluster communications.
Implement network changes that improve reliability, resilience, security, and performance.
Troubleshoot complex networking and platform issues across cloud-native environments.
Support Layer 2 to Layer 7 networking technologies, BGP, and multi-tenant WAN environments.
Develop and maintain automation to improve operational efficiency and platform scalability.
Work closely with engineering teams to support production Kubernetes workloads.
Participate in an on-call support rota and resolve operational incidents.
Produce and maintain technical documentation and operational procedures.

Network Operations Engineer Skills and Experience

Active DV Clearance and UK nationality.
Strong experience supporting secure network operations within enterprise environments.
Three to five years' experience with IP networking, Layer 2 to Layer 7 protocols, BGP, and multi-tenant WAN environments.
Three to five years' experience with Linux systems administration or Kubernetes.
Experience supporting air-gapped Kubernetes environments and cross-cluster networking.
Strong understanding of Kubernetes networking concepts and production Kubernetes platforms.
Experience with CNI technologies such as Cilium and Service Mesh technologies such as Istio would be advantageous.
Experience with MPLS Layer 3 VPNs or cloud-native networking technologies is desirable.
Experience automating infrastructure using Git, Bash, or Python.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Experience working within telecommunications or highly secure operational environments.
Willingness to work on site in London, Hampshire, or Wiltshire and participate in an on-call rota.

To apply, please send your CV by pressing the apply button.

Due to high volume of applications, only shortlisted CVs will be contacted.


Due to the nature and urgency of this post, candidates holding or who have held high level security clearance in the past are most welcome to apply. Please note successful applicants will be required to be security cleared prior to appointment which can take a minimum 18 weeks. LA International is an award-winning partner of choice for many of the world's most influential companies and government organisations. Holding Enhanced Government Security Accreditation, we are recognised as the European market leader in the delivery of Security Cleared talent to organisations that demand the very highest levels of security, compliance and assurance.

An award-winning organisation, having secured the prestigious Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade over multiple years. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background or identity, and we encourage candidates who may not meet every listed requirement to still apply. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.

Please Note: If a high volume of applications is received, only candidates shortlisted will be contacted.