Network Administrator
The Junior NOC Engineer monitors and supports enterprise network infrastructure within a 24x7 operations center to ensure high availability and performance of mission-critical services. Responsibilities include real-time network surveillance, first-line troubleshooting, executing routine procedures, documenting incidents, and collaborating with senior engineers in a federal IT environment. This role requires adherence to structured processes and maintaining security clearance compliance.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
You will join a Network Operations Center (NOC) team supporting mission‑critical federal IT networks. In this junior NOC role you will monitor network devices, links, and services in real time; perform first‑line troubleshooting; execute routine NOC procedures and shift handoffs; document incidents and changes in the ticketing system; and escalate complex problems to senior engineers. The position follows structured 24x7 operations and standard operating procedures to maintain availability and performance.
Responsibilities
- Monitor enterprise network devices, circuits, and services using network management and monitoring tools; acknowledge alerts and prioritize responses by impact and severity.
- Perform first‑line troubleshooting: verify device reachability, check interface status, assess link utilization, and validate basic configuration items before escalation.
- Execute routine NOC tasks per SOPs — scheduled health checks, device restarts, and low‑risk configuration tasks under direction.
- Create clear, accurate tickets: document symptoms, diagnostics performed, steps taken, escalation paths, and final outcomes.
- Participate in 24x7 operations coverage; maintain precise shift logs and provide concise handoffs between shifts.
- Support senior NOC and network engineers by collecting diagnostic data and carrying out directed troubleshooting steps.
- Follow change management and incident management processes; ensure network activities are recorded and approved.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field — or equivalent relevant experience.
- 0–3 years’ experience in network operations, NOC, or junior network engineering roles (monitoring and first‑line troubleshooting).
- Solid foundational knowledge of TCP/IP, VLANs, routing, switching, and basic firewall behavior in enterprise LAN/WAN environments.
- Exposure to network devices and management platforms (examples: Cisco or Juniper hardware and tools such as SolarWinds or similar).
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills; ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast‑paced operations environment.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with accurate incident/change documentation.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and possess a current Secret security clearance (active within the past 24 months).
- Current Security+ or other DoD 8180 IAT‑II certification is required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands‑on experience in a NOC or 24x7 operations environment with formal procedures and shift structures.
- Entry‑level networking certifications such as CCNA or Network+ (or equivalent).
- Familiarity with ITIL practices and formal incident/change management processes.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range (posted): $65,400 - $82,400 per year.
- Total compensation and benefits may vary based on experience, certifications, clearance level, and client/contract factors. Additional benefits details will be provided by the hiring organization during the interview process.
Work Schedule & Location
- This role supports a 24x7 NOC with assigned shift schedules; candidates must be available for rotating shifts and handoffs.
- Location: Tarrytown, TX (onsite/shift‑based as required by contract).
Clearance & Employment Notes
- This position requires U.S. citizenship and an active Secret security clearance (or Secret cleared within the last 24 months). Candidates without the required clearance may not be eligible.
- The role is for a federal IT environment and follows federal contractor requirements.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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