Build a Resume Now

NOC Analyst Job Description

NOC analysts, also known as network operations center analysts, manage and troubleshoot IP networks and hardware. Many companies with network systems hire full-time NOC analysts to work flexible shifts, including nights and weekends, and sometimes even on-call hours. NOC analysts work both independently and in a team environment, reporting to data team supervisors. Travel is rarely required for this job, unless NOC analysts are asked to travel between company branches to manage networks.

 

NOC Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

NOC analysts perform many different job duties based on the size of the company network and the amount of support and maintenance the network requires. However, these core job tasks are common across the field:

Troubleshoot Networks

NOC analysts troubleshoot IP networks and network hardware. This includes troubleshooting individual computers and laptops connected to the network.

Keep Networks Secure

NOC analysts monitor network security, isolate potential security vulnerabilities, and remedy security issues that could compromise the network. This includes running diagnostics programs on networks to pinpoint problems and monitor overall network health.

Write Reports

NOC analysts write regular analytics and network infrastructure reports.

Replace Hardware

NOC analysts replace malfunctioning or underperforming hardware connected to the network.

Design Scripts

NOC analysts write scripts and design automated network functions to increase efficiency.

Provide Tech Support

NOC analysts answer incoming calls for tech support from customers and other staff members within the company.

Resolve Outages

NOC analysts resolve outage issues by isolating programs and collaborating with engineers to find fixes.

Review Network Logs

NOC analysts review network logs to search for security issues and other problems and monitor the overall network.

 

NOC Analyst Skills and Qualifications

NOC analysts need extensive knowledge of IT and how networks function to monitor security, troubleshoot problems, and provide system support. Employers seek NOC analysts who have the following skill set needed to complete the various tasks associated with the job:

  • Computer skills – NOC analysts have vast computer skills, which they use to work with network systems of all types, create advanced Excel spreadsheets, and maintain network security
  • Programming – NOC analysts use programming skills to write macros and scripts in multiple computer programming languages
  • Problem-solving skills – as NOC analysts troubleshoot problems and find fixes for network issues, excellent problem-solving skills are essential
  • Communication skills – NOC analysts use verbal communication skills to collaborate with engineers and other analysts to solve problems and keep the network functioning at a high level of efficiency
  • Customer service – because NOC analysts respond to support desk requests from customers, employers look for professionals with customer service skills
  • Multitasking – NOC analysts use multitasking skills to manage various network problems and respond to help requests
  • Time management – NOC analysts use time management skills to prioritize tasks and work efficiently to quickly remedy network problems when they arise

 

NOC Analyst Education and Training

Employers look for NOC analysts who have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a closely related field of study. Some employers additionally require NOC analysts to have previous work history in the IT field. Candidates who have a master’s degree are highly desirable to employers, but this is not typically required. Many employers do require additional programming certifications, however.

Brief on-the-job training is provided to NOC analysts once hired. This training period helps NOC analysts become familiar with the company’s network and lasts only briefly, usually no more than one to two weeks.

 

NOC Analyst Salary and Outlook

Network and computer systems administrators earn a median salary of $81,100 per year. Network and computer systems administrators manage the day-to-day operations of network systems, performing the same job tasks as NOC analysts. In many businesses, the job titles for NOC analysts and system administrators are interchangeable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates employment in this field will increase 6 percent by 2026, which is on par with the national average job growth rate.

NOC analysts receive extensive benefits. In addition to health, dental, and vision insurance, many NOC analysts have the option to participate in healthcare flex spending accounts. Several weeks of vacation pay are typically offered in addition to paid holidays. Many NOC analysts also receive education assistance from employers.

 

Helpful Resources

Discover career advancement resources and strategies for NOC analysts with these websites and books:

The League of Professional System Administrators – visit LOPSA to learn more about educational programs, certification courses, training opportunities, and upcoming IT industry events to help professionals advance in their career as a systems administrator or NOC analyst

Becoming a Systems Administrator – find out how to become a successful systems administrator or NOC analyst with the tips and information in this book

Network Professional Association – search for job openings, networking events, and helpful content at the NPA website, which is designed for all network professionals

Essential System Administration – study the fundamentals of Unix system administration with this in-depth book that includes information about working with all major Unix platforms

CompTIA – take advantage of IT resources, training programs, community support, and technology tools at this site made for information technology professionals in all career fields

Networking for Systems Administrators – delve into advanced networking techniques with this book covering diagnostics, troubleshooting, testing, and other networking issues that system administrators face

 

NOC Analyst Resume Help

Explore these related job titles from our database of hundreds of thousands of expert-approved resume samples:

Your Cover Letter, Made Easy.

You are looking for your dream job and need a cover letter? My Perfect Cover Letter is your solution and takes the hassle out of cover letter writing. Create the perfect job-worthy cover letter effortlessly in just a few clicks!