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Lead DevOps Engineer

Waracle
Full-time
On-site
Bristol, ENG

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Waracle is seeking a Lead DevOps Engineer to anchor cloud strategy, automation, and squad leadership in a hybrid Bristol role (2 days in the office). You will define cloud architecture and IaC, translate business goals into delivery pipelines, and run workshops on security and budgets while building a high-trust, empowering team and guiding Community of Practice standards. Essential skills include deep cloud proficiency (AWS, Azure or GCP), Jenkins, Python or Bash, Kubernetes and Docker, plus a DevSecOps mindset and strong observability. Apply by tailoring your résumé to highlight strategic roadmaps, mentoring, and measurable impact; be ready to discuss multi-cloud and security projects during the two-stage interview after an initial chat with a Talent Acquisition Partner.

Waracle is looking for a Lead DevOps Engineer to join our world-class digital technology consultancy. We are a diverse, smart, and ambitious community of specialists dedicated to technology-driven transformation. We partner with bold clients to solve their most significant business challenges, creating intelligent digital products that make a real impact.

This is a Hybrid role working from the Bristol office 2 days per week. 

The Opportunity

As a Lead DevOps Engineer, you will be a pivotal technical anchor within our squads. You will define project-level infrastructure architecture and automation strategies while fostering a collaborative, supportive, and psychologically safe environment where every voice is heard. This is an opportunity to lead with empathy and expertise, ensuring our cloud roadmaps meet long-term goals while empowering your team to thrive.

Key Aspects of the Role

  • Platform Leadership: Defining cloud architecture and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) approaches while proactively managing risks in distributed systems.

  • Strategic Automation: Translating high-level business objectives into technical strategies that ensure delivery pipelines meet client goals.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitating workshops to understand requirements and managing expectations around security, budget, and cloud priorities.

  • Team Empowerment: Leading a project squad with accountability for platform stability and nurturing a high-trust team culture.

  • Practice Leadership: Owning Community of Practice (CoP) initiatives and defining the standards for infrastructure, security, and shared practices.

Requirements

What You’ll Bring

We are looking for a collaborative leader who balances deep technical mastery with a strategic mindset.

You should bring:

  • Cloud Expertise: Deep proficiency in at least one major provider (AWS, GCP, or Azure) with a focus on cloud-native design.

  • Automation Mastery: Proven experience with Jenkins pipeline architecture and a strong command of scripting (Python, Bash).

  • Orchestration & Containers: Expert-level hands-on experience scaling Kubernetes clusters and practical expertise in Docker.

  • Security Mindset: A robust understanding of DevSecOps, vulnerability management, and mobile platform security tools.

  • Operational Excellence: A high standard for observability (Logs, Metrics, Traces) and the ability to optimize systems for both performance and cost.

  • Inclusive Leadership: A demonstrated ability to define technical roadmaps and lead engineering squads with a focus on mentorship and growth.


The Recruitment Process

  1. Initial Chat: You’ll start with a call with your dedicated Talent Acquisition Partner to talk about Waracle, your aspirations, salary, and benefits.

  2. Two-Stage Interview: You’ll then be invited to a two-stage process to dive deeper into the role and showcase your unique skills and experience.

  3. Supportive Guidance: Your Talent Partner will be by your side, guiding you through every step until your first day.


Our Benefits

We believe in supporting our team holistically, ensuring you have the tools to thrive inside and outside of work:

  • Rest & Recharge: 35 days of holiday (27 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays).

  • Financial Security: Company-matched 5% pension and a Death in Service benefit (2x salary).

  • Health & Wellness: Medicash Health plans, Employee Assistance Programme, and Group Sickness Cover.

  • Flexible Working: Hybrid-first approach with a home office setup budget.

  • Learning & Growth: Access to Udemy Business and a dedicated L&D budget for your continuous development.

  • Family First: Enhanced parental leave policies, including specific support for fertility journeys.

  • Community: Monthly office lunches, regular meet-ups, and the Spirit of Waracle initiative for local charitable impact.


Waracle is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and welcome applications from everyone, regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age.