IT Technical Architect

Job overview

Are you an experienced IT professional ready to take the lead in designing and delivering secure, scalable, and resilient IT infrastructure solutions across network, systems, and cloud platforms?

We’re looking for a Technical Architect (Band 8a) to join our innovative IT Infrastructure team at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

This is a senior, strategic role providing technical leadership, shaping the future of our infrastructure, and supporting clinical and operational excellence. You’ll act as a subject matter expert, guiding technical teams and stakeholders, and championing innovation and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the design and implementation of enterprise-grade Azure, system and network solutions
• Providing expert technical advice to colleagues and senior leaders
• Supporting key infrastructure projects and system upgrades
• Mentoring team members and promoting best practices

You’ll be part of a motivated, skilled, and supportive team and play a key role in enabling safe, reliable digital services that improve patient care. You’ll ensure our systems are secure, reliable, and future-ready.

Applications for this post will be considered in the order they are received. The job may close early if we find the right applicant. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered.

Main duties of the job

• Leading the design, delivery, and improvement of enterprise-level infrastructure solutions across network, systems, and Azure cloud platforms
• Developing technical documentation and architecture standards, embedding secure-by-design principles
• Providing expert advice and mentoring to technical teams, supporting skills development and collaboration
• Partnering with suppliers, NHS bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure interoperability and compliance with NHS standards (GDPR, Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO27001, DSP Toolkit, DCB1596, DCB0160)
• Supporting major projects and upgrades, ensuring delivery aligns with organisational and clinical priorities
• Contributing to business continuity and disaster recovery planning and testing
• Promoting a culture of innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement across the team
• The post is based in Reading, with regular on-site work and opportunities for hybrid working. Occasional travel to other Trust sites may be required.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The “must haves” for this role:

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or equivalent experience
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert formal qualification
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate formal qualification
• Evidence of extensive experience in technical architecture, ideally within healthcare or public sector
• Proven experience leading complex infrastructure projects
• Proven strong knowledge of and certified in Microsoft Azure, networking, and systems design.

There will be a two-stage interview process:

• By telephone
• Candidates who are successful at the telephone interview stage will then be invited to a Face to Face interview (please note we do not offer interviews online)

For further information about the role, please see attached job description and person specification. Your application is your opportunity to demonstrate to us how you meet the requirements of the role. We recognise that AI tools can support accessibility, equity and confidence for applicants. However, it’s important that examples and responses given in your supporting statement genuinely reflect your own experience and abilities, as these will be explored further during the selection process. AI must not be used to provide misleading or false information during any stage of the application journey.

In addition to explaining how you meet the person specification, you must complete your employment history for at least the last five years. Any experience, skills or responsibilities referenced in your supporting statements should be evidenced within your employment history. Applications that do not include sufficient employment history to support the experience claimed may not be shortlisted.

We’re committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in our accreditations: Stonewall Proud Employer, Race Equality Matters Silver Trailblazer, Neurodiversity in Business Corporate Member, Disability Confident Leader, Carer Confident Level 2, and the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award. Reasonable adjustments will be provided to candidates as needed.

We welcome a conversation about flexibility and any other questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to call: Shiva Pallapothu on 07825521617 or email: Shiva.Pallapothu@berkshire.nhs.uk who’ll be delighted to help.

Please note, if we receive a high number of applications, we may close this role earlier than the advertised closing date, so please submit your application as soon as possible.