Active Directory Architect

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Active Directory Architect to lead the design, development and optimisation of directory services. In this strategic role you will shape the future‑state architecture of complex AD environments, define standards and best practices, and ensure our infrastructure remains robust, scalable and compliant.

Salary: Up to £68,000 depending on experience.

Location: Bristol, Bolton or Stevenage.

Dynamic working: 1‑2 days per week on‑site as required by workload classification.

Security Clearance: British Citizen (DV clearance required). All successful candidates will undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) post‑offer.

• Company bonus: up to 21% of salary.
• Pension: up to 14% total contribution (employer + employee).
• Enhanced parental leave: up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, with additional paternity, neonatal and fertility support.
• Facilities: subsidised meals, free parking and more.
• Training and development: excellent career progression and training opportunities.

• Strategic design, governance and continual improvement of MBDA’s directory services.
• Define and maintain the AD architectural roadmap.
• Oversee complex multi‑domain and multi‑forest environments.
• Work nationally and internationally, embracing cultural diversity.

• Expert knowledge of Active Directory Domain Services, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, replication and trusts.
• Deep understanding of Azure AD / Entra , ADFS, Hybrid Join and identity federation models.
• Strong background in Kerberos, LDAP, NTLM and PKI‑based authentication (smart cards, certificates).
• Experience in architecting bastion forests and JIT/JEA.
• Familiarity with Power Shell, Ansible and automation frameworks for provisioning and compliance.
• Integration knowledge across Microsoft Exchange, M365, VMware and enterprise IT ecosystems.
• Understanding of Zero Trust architecture, identity threat detection and SIEM integration.
• Strong stakeholder management, influencing and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex technical challenges into executive‑level decisions and investment cases.

MBDA is a leading defence organisation dedicated to protecting national security. We partner with governments worldwide, champion diversity through employee‑led networks, and value every individual’s unique contributions.

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at MBDA by 2x.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Information Technology

Defense and Space Manufacturing