AQA Recruiting
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Systems Engineer Permanent Milton Keynes £59,637 - £66,126 Hybrid - 2x days a week in the office Introduction You will play a key role in delivering secure, reliable and highly available services across AQA. In this role, you will join a collaborative and forward thinking Enterprise Technology team that is constantly evolving its services to meet the needs of colleagues and learners. You will contribute to an environment where technology is used confidently, safely and effectively, supporting the wider organisation to deliver exceptional outcomes. Purpose of the role You will ensure the smooth operation, security and continual improvement of AQA's on-premise and cloud infrastructure. Your work will directly support colleagues across the organisation by strengthening the resilience, performance and security of critical services. In this role, you will help shape AQA's technology landscape and contribute to services that support learners and enable staffto work effectively. Key responsibilities Managing and maintaining secure, robust and cost effective on premise and cloud services, including physical and virtual infrastructure. Investigating and resolving complex 3rd line incidents within SLAs, ensuring strong communication throughout. Supporting lifecycle management, continuous improvement and adoption of new technologies into service. What we are looking for Strong experience across IT infrastructure and networking technologies including; Physical and virtual server & storage platforms such as HPE, Nimble, VMware & Hyper-V Microsoft cloud platforms, specifically Azure & Azure Local Management and monitoring tools such as Azure Arc, M365, InTune, Solarwinds, ThousandEyes, LogicMonitor and similar Backup platforms including Rubrik, Azure backup / MABS Fundamental networking knowledge, ideally with Cisco & Meraki infrastructure. Experience dealing with ISP's and MSP's to achieve technical outcomes Good understanding of ISO/IEC27001, Cyber Essentials Plus, ITIL and secure infrastructure practices. Excellent analytical and problem solving skills, with the ability to resolve complex issues and contribute to service improvements. Ability to collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders and suppliers to deliver high quality services. Experience with automation through scripting such as PowerShell, supporting efficiency and scalability. What's in it for you The opportunity to work across enterprise scale technologies and contribute to key organisational services. Professional growth through exposure to new technologies and support for industry recognised certifications. 25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas A 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements Excellent contributory pension scheme (6%-11.5% depending on your contribution) Life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes Diversity and Inclusion At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation or background-is valued, respected and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Application process To apply, please submit your CV though our online application system. Closing date for applications will be Sunday 18th May Recruitment Agencies We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees. Full Job Description Summary As the Systems Engineer within the Enterprise Technology department under Group Corporate Services Office, you're a technical SME, with responsibility for managing and maintaining the effective operation and compliance to security standards for on premise infrastructure and accountability for assuring cloud managed services. Your role will be crucial in providing secure, reliable and highly available service that has a direct impact on productivity and colleague experience. You'll contribute to a culture and service that is evergreen and continually reviewing opportunities to improve. Your time will be shared between BAU and project activities to maintain the lifecycle of on-premise infrastructure and continually evolve cloud services.Reporting to the Infrastructure & Cloud Operations Manager, who in turn reports into the Head of Enterprise Services, within the Enterprise Technology Directorate. Supporting the continuous improvement of an enterprise scale infrastructure and cloud operations service, aligned and operating to industry standard frameworks and good practice including ITIL. As a security focussed organisation, you will have a good understanding and be able to apply your knowledge of ISO/IEC27001, Cyber Essentials Plus and NCSC guidance to deliver secure, efficient and compliant services enabling ongoing alignment and certification. The role involves you working closely with other technology teams, specifically other members of the Infrastructure and Cloud Operations team, EUC, Security & Risk and Architecture teams, as well project managers and external vendors. Enterprise Technology consists of the following functions: • Service Delivery • Enterprise IT Services • Enterprise Applications • Enterprise Architecture • Security, Risk & Data Protection This role will be required to demonstrate a technical proficiency, strong customer focus, professionalism, flexibility and commitment to delivery of exceptional service outcomes. Activities: Support and administer secure, robust and cost-effective services including virtual and physical computing, storage and backup platforms as well as networks and communications systems Carry out and/or facilitate systems maintenance to ensure effective delivery of service Configure and maintain effective monitoring processes to identify events/incidents and ensure timely resolution and/or make proposals for improvements Investigate assigned 3rd line Incidents resolving within SLA, communicating progress throughout. Liaising with Enterprise Technology colleagues, suppliers and 3rd party information sources as required to achieve resolution. Document and contribute to analysis and review processes Providing technical support for complex hardware, software, and connectivity issues Monitor, document and report systems capacity and usage and contribute to capacity management processes to ensure business needs are met Document policies, troubleshooting guides and lead on the creation of standard operating procedures to ensure operations are delivered consistently Responsible for on-premise infrastructure hardware and software lifecycle to maintain currency Identify and address any architectural deficiencies. Support the creation of KPI's and measurement of infrastructure and cloud services Work with suppliers to optimise infrastructure and cloud services and support supplier management to ensure they meet contractual obligations Be aware of evolving security threats aligned to infrastructure and cloud operations, providing recommendations to minimise risk Support user adoption of services, enabling colleagues to be digitally confident Support business continuity management processes, proactively scheduling testing of resilience to aid efficient recovery in the event of disruption to normal operations Detailed design for continuous improvement
Systems Engineer Permanent Milton Keynes £59,637 - £66,126 Hybrid - 2x days a week in the office Introduction You will play a key role in delivering secure, reliable and highly available services across AQA. In this role, you will join a collaborative and forward thinking Enterprise Technology team that is constantly evolving its services to meet the needs of colleagues and learners. You will contribute to an environment where technology is used confidently, safely and effectively, supporting the wider organisation to deliver exceptional outcomes. Purpose of the role You will ensure the smooth operation, security and continual improvement of AQA's on-premise and cloud infrastructure. Your work will directly support colleagues across the organisation by strengthening the resilience, performance and security of critical services. In this role, you will help shape AQA's technology landscape and contribute to services that support learners and enable staffto work effectively. Key responsibilities Managing and maintaining secure, robust and cost effective on premise and cloud services, including physical and virtual infrastructure. Investigating and resolving complex 3rd line incidents within SLAs, ensuring strong communication throughout. Supporting lifecycle management, continuous improvement and adoption of new technologies into service. What we are looking for Strong experience across IT infrastructure and networking technologies including; Physical and virtual server & storage platforms such as HPE, Nimble, VMware & Hyper-V Microsoft cloud platforms, specifically Azure & Azure Local Management and monitoring tools such as Azure Arc, M365, InTune, Solarwinds, ThousandEyes, LogicMonitor and similar Backup platforms including Rubrik, Azure backup / MABS Fundamental networking knowledge, ideally with Cisco & Meraki infrastructure. Experience dealing with ISP's and MSP's to achieve technical outcomes Good understanding of ISO/IEC27001, Cyber Essentials Plus, ITIL and secure infrastructure practices. Excellent analytical and problem solving skills, with the ability to resolve complex issues and contribute to service improvements. Ability to collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders and suppliers to deliver high quality services. Experience with automation through scripting such as PowerShell, supporting efficiency and scalability. What's in it for you The opportunity to work across enterprise scale technologies and contribute to key organisational services. Professional growth through exposure to new technologies and support for industry recognised certifications. 25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas A 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements Excellent contributory pension scheme (6%-11.5% depending on your contribution) Life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes Diversity and Inclusion At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation or background-is valued, respected and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Application process To apply, please submit your CV though our online application system. Closing date for applications will be Sunday 18th May Recruitment Agencies We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees. Full Job Description Summary As the Systems Engineer within the Enterprise Technology department under Group Corporate Services Office, you're a technical SME, with responsibility for managing and maintaining the effective operation and compliance to security standards for on premise infrastructure and accountability for assuring cloud managed services. Your role will be crucial in providing secure, reliable and highly available service that has a direct impact on productivity and colleague experience. You'll contribute to a culture and service that is evergreen and continually reviewing opportunities to improve. Your time will be shared between BAU and project activities to maintain the lifecycle of on-premise infrastructure and continually evolve cloud services.Reporting to the Infrastructure & Cloud Operations Manager, who in turn reports into the Head of Enterprise Services, within the Enterprise Technology Directorate. Supporting the continuous improvement of an enterprise scale infrastructure and cloud operations service, aligned and operating to industry standard frameworks and good practice including ITIL. As a security focussed organisation, you will have a good understanding and be able to apply your knowledge of ISO/IEC27001, Cyber Essentials Plus and NCSC guidance to deliver secure, efficient and compliant services enabling ongoing alignment and certification. The role involves you working closely with other technology teams, specifically other members of the Infrastructure and Cloud Operations team, EUC, Security & Risk and Architecture teams, as well project managers and external vendors. Enterprise Technology consists of the following functions: • Service Delivery • Enterprise IT Services • Enterprise Applications • Enterprise Architecture • Security, Risk & Data Protection This role will be required to demonstrate a technical proficiency, strong customer focus, professionalism, flexibility and commitment to delivery of exceptional service outcomes. Activities: Support and administer secure, robust and cost-effective services including virtual and physical computing, storage and backup platforms as well as networks and communications systems Carry out and/or facilitate systems maintenance to ensure effective delivery of service Configure and maintain effective monitoring processes to identify events/incidents and ensure timely resolution and/or make proposals for improvements Investigate assigned 3rd line Incidents resolving within SLA, communicating progress throughout. Liaising with Enterprise Technology colleagues, suppliers and 3rd party information sources as required to achieve resolution. Document and contribute to analysis and review processes Providing technical support for complex hardware, software, and connectivity issues Monitor, document and report systems capacity and usage and contribute to capacity management processes to ensure business needs are met Document policies, troubleshooting guides and lead on the creation of standard operating procedures to ensure operations are delivered consistently Responsible for on-premise infrastructure hardware and software lifecycle to maintain currency Identify and address any architectural deficiencies. Support the creation of KPI's and measurement of infrastructure and cloud services Work with suppliers to optimise infrastructure and cloud services and support supplier management to ensure they meet contractual obligations Be aware of evolving security threats aligned to infrastructure and cloud operations, providing recommendations to minimise risk Support user adoption of services, enabling colleagues to be digitally confident Support business continuity management processes, proactively scheduling testing of resilience to aid efficient recovery in the event of disruption to normal operations Detailed design for continuous improvement
AQA Recruiting
Manchester, Lancashire
Test Manager page is loaded Test Managerlocations: Manchestertime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: R7861 At AQA, we're committed to advancing education and we're committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it's our people who make this happen. Test Manager Permanent Hybrid - 2x days a week in the office Salary: £65,800 - £74,100 Introduction You'll play a key role in shaping how AQA delivers high-quality software solutions. This is an opportunity to lead testing practices that make a real impact on learners and education. You'll be at the forefront of shaping AQA's approach to software testing, ensuring that every solution we deliver meets the highest standards of quality and reliability. This role offers the chance to influence strategic decisions, collaborate with talented teams, and make a tangible impact on education outcomes across the UK. Purpose of the role You'll ensure predictable and successful delivery of software for AQA's key operational systems. Your leadership will drive best-in-class testing practices, supporting AQA's transition to cloud technologies and agile delivery models. You'll lead initiatives that enhance AQA's technology landscape, championing agile practices and automation-first approaches. By driving innovation and continuous improvement, you'll help us deliver solutions that empower learners and educators, while positioning AQA as a leader in digital transformation. Key responsibilities In this role, you'll be responsible for: Leading and managing all test activities across functional, non-functional, automated and manual testing. Driving continuous improvement in testing processes and tools aligned to agile principles. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring timely, high-quality delivery of software solutions What we are looking for You'll thrive in this role if you have: Significant experience in leading functional and non-functional testing teams, including automation. Strong understanding of agile software development lifecycle and testing methodologies. Proven ability to manage, mentor and develop technical teams. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Experience with tools such as JIRA, MTM, TFS or similar. What's in it for you At AQA we value your contribution and we'll make sure you feel supported and rewarded. You'll get: 25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas a 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements an excellent contributory pension scheme (6%-11.5% depending on your contribution) life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan enhanced maternity and paternity schemes access to professional and personal development whenever you need it Diversity and inclusion At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Application Process To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by Sunday 17th May. Recruitment Agencies We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees. Full Job Description Summary Purpose: To ensure the predictable and successful delivery of software for AQA's key operational systems, through providing leadership and hands-on support in the area of test for programmes/projects as required. Ensuring that all software delivered is tested in line with defined requirements, industry best practices, departmental standards and wider AQA policies/procedures. Helping to complete AQA's ongoing transition to a single, consistent set of cloud-based technologies (technology re-platform) and move to an agile delivery model in line with current software development best practices (Scrum/Kanban; continuous delivery) - and automation to continually improve and enhance that technology for new and changing business needs.The role of the Test Manager is to support the Head of Test to ensure all test activities both functional and non-functional are planned, resourced and delivered to time and quality. Tracking and reporting test delivery and progress, identifying and managing risks, issues and dependencies, and holding all team members to account for their areas of delivery. Through strong leadership and technical skills, the purpose of the role will be to engender a culture of trust, openness, collective ownership, efficiency and technical excellence. Activities: Support the Head of Test in implementing and continuously improving software and test practices, processes and tools aligned to agile and lean principles. Ensure the successful delivery of software solutions projects in line with agreed timescales and priorities Mentor and coach other team members, driving personal and professional development to facilitate cross skilling in the team. Identify ways to continually improve team processes and ways of working, and support the Head of Test in the creation of a centre of excellence for Test in AQA. Drive the continuous improvement of ways of working in Software Solutions and of wider departmental practices. Ensuring a delivery focused approach to testing, whilst maintaining a proportionate balance between the need for quality vs. delivery in the context of the high stakes nature of AQA's business. Work with the business, other technical teams and external partners (third parties) to design, plan and deliver software solutions and software solution integrations. To build and foster strong working relationships with colleagues, key business stakeholders, 3rd party partners and throughout AQA. Undertake appropriate mitigation and avoidance actions as assigned, in accordance with identified Issues and Risks. Provide regular, simple, clear and accurate reporting and tracking on test activities Line manage Test team members to get the best outcomes for individuals and AQA in line with AQA's practices, policies and procedures. To model leadership behaviours with confidence and to get the very best from direct reports and teams by providing clarity, feedback, coaching and development, while continuously seeking to enhance performance in line with business objectives. To comply with all AQA's policies and other legislative requirements, including but not limited to HSE, Equal Opportunities and ISMS. Where business needs change, to undertake other responsibilities which are of a commensurate level outside the terms of this role profile. To be successful in this role, you will need to know: A broad understanding of testing and its role, relevance and application in either a commercial or an educational environment. Excellent understanding of different types of testing, e.g. functional, non-functional and user acceptance including relevant artefacts associated and suitable application. A strong understanding of the use of technology to improve the efficiency, reliability and repeatability of the testing discipline. A good understanding of the software development lifecycle in an agile setting. Skilled at leading a team, with individuals across a range of geographical locations. Proven ability to
Test Manager page is loaded Test Managerlocations: Manchestertime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: R7861 At AQA, we're committed to advancing education and we're committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it's our people who make this happen. Test Manager Permanent Hybrid - 2x days a week in the office Salary: £65,800 - £74,100 Introduction You'll play a key role in shaping how AQA delivers high-quality software solutions. This is an opportunity to lead testing practices that make a real impact on learners and education. You'll be at the forefront of shaping AQA's approach to software testing, ensuring that every solution we deliver meets the highest standards of quality and reliability. This role offers the chance to influence strategic decisions, collaborate with talented teams, and make a tangible impact on education outcomes across the UK. Purpose of the role You'll ensure predictable and successful delivery of software for AQA's key operational systems. Your leadership will drive best-in-class testing practices, supporting AQA's transition to cloud technologies and agile delivery models. You'll lead initiatives that enhance AQA's technology landscape, championing agile practices and automation-first approaches. By driving innovation and continuous improvement, you'll help us deliver solutions that empower learners and educators, while positioning AQA as a leader in digital transformation. Key responsibilities In this role, you'll be responsible for: Leading and managing all test activities across functional, non-functional, automated and manual testing. Driving continuous improvement in testing processes and tools aligned to agile principles. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring timely, high-quality delivery of software solutions What we are looking for You'll thrive in this role if you have: Significant experience in leading functional and non-functional testing teams, including automation. Strong understanding of agile software development lifecycle and testing methodologies. Proven ability to manage, mentor and develop technical teams. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Experience with tools such as JIRA, MTM, TFS or similar. What's in it for you At AQA we value your contribution and we'll make sure you feel supported and rewarded. You'll get: 25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas a 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements an excellent contributory pension scheme (6%-11.5% depending on your contribution) life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan enhanced maternity and paternity schemes access to professional and personal development whenever you need it Diversity and inclusion At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Application Process To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by Sunday 17th May. Recruitment Agencies We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees. Full Job Description Summary Purpose: To ensure the predictable and successful delivery of software for AQA's key operational systems, through providing leadership and hands-on support in the area of test for programmes/projects as required. Ensuring that all software delivered is tested in line with defined requirements, industry best practices, departmental standards and wider AQA policies/procedures. Helping to complete AQA's ongoing transition to a single, consistent set of cloud-based technologies (technology re-platform) and move to an agile delivery model in line with current software development best practices (Scrum/Kanban; continuous delivery) - and automation to continually improve and enhance that technology for new and changing business needs.The role of the Test Manager is to support the Head of Test to ensure all test activities both functional and non-functional are planned, resourced and delivered to time and quality. Tracking and reporting test delivery and progress, identifying and managing risks, issues and dependencies, and holding all team members to account for their areas of delivery. Through strong leadership and technical skills, the purpose of the role will be to engender a culture of trust, openness, collective ownership, efficiency and technical excellence. Activities: Support the Head of Test in implementing and continuously improving software and test practices, processes and tools aligned to agile and lean principles. Ensure the successful delivery of software solutions projects in line with agreed timescales and priorities Mentor and coach other team members, driving personal and professional development to facilitate cross skilling in the team. Identify ways to continually improve team processes and ways of working, and support the Head of Test in the creation of a centre of excellence for Test in AQA. Drive the continuous improvement of ways of working in Software Solutions and of wider departmental practices. Ensuring a delivery focused approach to testing, whilst maintaining a proportionate balance between the need for quality vs. delivery in the context of the high stakes nature of AQA's business. Work with the business, other technical teams and external partners (third parties) to design, plan and deliver software solutions and software solution integrations. To build and foster strong working relationships with colleagues, key business stakeholders, 3rd party partners and throughout AQA. Undertake appropriate mitigation and avoidance actions as assigned, in accordance with identified Issues and Risks. Provide regular, simple, clear and accurate reporting and tracking on test activities Line manage Test team members to get the best outcomes for individuals and AQA in line with AQA's practices, policies and procedures. To model leadership behaviours with confidence and to get the very best from direct reports and teams by providing clarity, feedback, coaching and development, while continuously seeking to enhance performance in line with business objectives. To comply with all AQA's policies and other legislative requirements, including but not limited to HSE, Equal Opportunities and ISMS. Where business needs change, to undertake other responsibilities which are of a commensurate level outside the terms of this role profile. To be successful in this role, you will need to know: A broad understanding of testing and its role, relevance and application in either a commercial or an educational environment. Excellent understanding of different types of testing, e.g. functional, non-functional and user acceptance including relevant artefacts associated and suitable application. A strong understanding of the use of technology to improve the efficiency, reliability and repeatability of the testing discipline. A good understanding of the software development lifecycle in an agile setting. Skilled at leading a team, with individuals across a range of geographical locations. Proven ability to