A network of engineers
Network operations centers or NOCs are intelligence powerhouses where all data on network performance is collected and monitored. A NOC engineer helps in the smooth functioning of the network for business needs and keeps downtime to a negligible level. A NOC engineer is an expert who primarily screens large computer networks and servers for hitches from a centralized location or through satellite.
A NOC engineer monitors systems, troubleshoots problems, documents resolutions and reports incidents. When a problem is recognized, NOC engineers do the analysis. NOCs generally have standard operating procedures that the NOC engineer will closely follow. This may include coordinating with third-party vendors, customer contacts, or other field operation teams for a holistic solution. Often, the NOC has a ticketing system that the NOC engineer is accountable for updating.
When the technical issues are complicated and need an immediate response or troubleshooting, Tier 1 NOC engineers escalate the matter to management as per their standard operating procedure. If need be, they include Tier II or Tier III resources, third party or vendors for a faster resolution after getting the proper approvals. They maintain the appropriate communication channels within intra teams or outside so that all stakeholders are kept informed ahead in a time-bound manner.
They perform a series of tasks such as updating and maintaining firmware on a regular basis, analyzing network issues, and offering solutions. Additionally, a NOC engineer also monitors system conditions, documents changes made to networks, creates technical manuals, and is responsible for maintaining network security. They recognize faults with the current network setup, analyze issues, and work to develop solutions. They may also support the head of the NOC and other managers with regard to current incidents and network issues.
The additional capabilities of a NOC engineer include email hosting services, voice and video data management, documentation and reporting, data storage management, power failure monitoring, system back-ups, supervising common threats, hardware configuration including firewalls, network analysis and troubleshooting, maintaining the stability of the network, identification and prevention of any potential issues regarding the network and making recommendations for improvements in organizational productivity and the network.
A NOC engineer must be an expert troubleshooter and have knowledge of incident models and diagnostic tools. They must have experience in the areas of network management and monitoring and need to have experience managing and supporting network infrastructure. Apart from a basic degree in computer science, certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional), MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist), Microsoft SQL Server Certification, and Cisco Certification will help in enhancing the career of a NOC engineer.
Along with technical skills, NOC engineers require analytical skills, leadership, and organizational skills. They should also be talented to work closely, as well as train other engineers and maintenance staff to run the network connectivity without any interruption. Additionally, being a team player is as important as learning to be a leader when required. A good NOC engineer must also be able to work in a high-pressure environment, and have good communication skills both orally and in writing.
The role of Glow
Here at Glow, we believe in team work. We look for enthusiastic candidates with the flexibility to work in any of the three shifts. We spend a considerable amount of time selecting candidates and training them. We focus on hiring experienced resources who have done NOC operations and particularly have specific equipment knowledge regarding the client's domain. We hire resources who have good knowledge in programming, besides expertise in Microsoft Excel and Word, different telecommunication equipment, and have some field work experience as well.
The ideal candidate should be organized, proactive in notifying the manager if there is a problem, owning up to mistakes and rectifying issues going forward. The candidate should also have the ability to research whatever they don't know and analyze issues. He or she should have a keen awareness of their team members' strengths and weaknesses, which will greatly enhance the experience of working together. We prefer having a mix of different levels of experience in our resources, and this gives us the advantage of providing leadership roles for small projects with junior team members.
Our candidates are an extension of our company and the values we believe in and a good investment for the years to come!
