Network Operations Specialist

Network Operations Specialist

Location: Houston, TX

Duration: 12-Month Contract

Pay Range: $43–$48/hr

Schedule: 4-on / 4-off | 12-Hour Shifts | 24x7 NOC




Position Overview

A client in the energy sector is seeking a Network Operations Specialist to support a 24x7 Network Operations Center in NW Houston. This role provides first and second line support for critical infrastructure including SCADA systems, Cisco network hardware, WAN circuits, Windows server environments, and data center systems. The position operates on a 4-on/4-off rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.




Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will manage and support a variety of projects within the Network Operations department. Key responsibilities include:




Essential Job Duties and Functions

NOC Operations & Support

• Provide first and second line support for Pipeline Operations Control desk issues related to phone systems, SCADA servers/systems, remote SCADA devices, and network-supported infrastructure
  
• Maintain ownership of NOC trouble tickets from creation through resolution
  
• Manage Support Center ticket escalations for server administration, network infrastructure, Pipeline Control Desk, and IT application issues
  
• Perform Support Center role during non-business hours
  
• Process replacement devices for failed equipment in the field
  
  
  
  
  Network Monitoring & Troubleshooting
  
• Use and maintain network management tools (SolarWinds, Cisco DNA Center, ThousandEyes, nGeniusONE, NetBrain, LiveNX, Infoblox, Cisco APIC, etc.) to monitor and maintain all IT network infrastructure hardware, software, and applications
  
• Monitor, debug, and resolve Tier 1 and Tier 2 Cisco infrastructure issues including routing, hardware/software failure, configuration, WAN outages, firewalls, and performance issues
  
• Maintain and support configuration management for failed Cisco infrastructure
  
• Monitor, manage, and resolve all data network circuit outages, WAN utilization issues, and packet errors across DWDM/SONET rings, Managed GigE, IPFlex, Internet, StarLink, VPN, VSAT, Cellular, and Radio links
  
• Debug network and application issues using packet capture tools to identify and resolve Tier 3 issues
  
  
  
  
  Server & Data Center Support
  
• Monitor, debug, and resolve Tier 1 and Tier 2 Windows server environment issues based on IT standards and application/business requirements
  
• Monitor, debug, and resolve all data center environmental management systems
  
• Monitor and validate the functionality of IT-supported applications
  
  
  
  
  SCADA & Control Systems
  
• Monitor, debug, and resolve Tier 1 and Tier 2 remote SCADA and plant control network problems
  
• Support and maintain critical SCADA network and domain infrastructure environment
  
  
  
  
  Documentation & Reporting
  
• Support and maintain all NOC documentation including procedures, processes, and vendor information
  
• Support and manage report generation for network infrastructure, administration, performance, and trouble ticketing
  
• Follow strict IT Security policies
  
• Perform other duties as delegated by IT Management
  
  
  
  
  Knowledge and Skills
  
  Must Have
  
• CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
  
• Strong knowledge of Cisco routing, switching, firewalls, access points, and Nexus devices — including configuration and troubleshooting
  
• Ability to analyze packet captures using NetScout, Wireshark, or equivalent tools
  
• Strong analytical ability to troubleshoot hardware/software issues across all OSI model layers
  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
  
• Strong customer service skills
  
• Ability to lift 50 lbs
  
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays to support a 24x7 NOC
  
  
  
  
  Nice to Have
  
• CCNP or equivalent advanced Cisco certification or experience
  
• Experience with network management platforms including Cisco DNA Center, SolarWinds, LiveAction, NetScout, and Cisco APIC
  
• Experience with data circuit technologies (DS-3, T-1, MPLS, VSAT, LTE, Microwave, etc.)
  
• Scripting or programming skills in Python, PowerShell, JavaScript, or C#
  
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Server operating systems and enterprise server environments
  
  
  
  
  Education and Experience
  
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field, or equivalent education and/or work experience
  
• Minimum 4 years of experience supporting enterprise Cisco network environments preferred
  
• Minimum 2 years of experience supporting enterprise Microsoft operating systems preferred
  

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