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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and manage network operations across data centres, responding to incidents and improving processes.
- Company: Join a high-performing team focused on operational excellence in secure environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £65,000 plus benefits and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and collaboration in tech.
- Qualifications: Must have active SC clearance and strong networking knowledge; hands-on experience is essential.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive engineers looking to make an impact in a secure environment.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
Location: Cheltenham, UK (Hybrid, 2–3 days onsite)
Type: Permanent / Fixed Term
Salary: £65,000 per annum + Benefits
Start Date: ASAP
Clearance: Active SC Clearance required (British Citizens only)
Overview
We are seeking an experienced NOC Engineer to join a high-performing team responsible for the support and operation of complex network infrastructure across multiple data centres and local sites. This role is ideally suited to a proactive engineer with a strong background in networking, data centre environments, and operational excellence within a secure environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide operational and administrative support for network environments across UK-based data centres and local sites.
- Respond to incidents and service requests within an ITIL framework.
- Support and manage escalations, major incidents (P1), and ticket analysis.
- Collaborate with internal teams across Cyber Security, Applications, and Infrastructure.
- Execute and document changes following strict change control procedures.
- Maintain and improve asset and configuration management records (CMDB).
- Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Identify and implement automation opportunities across processes.
Required Skills & Experience
- Active SC Clearance (must be current – expired/lapsed not eligible).
- Strong knowledge of network data and security technologies.
- Hands-on experience with routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, proxies.
- Experience with monitoring tools such as Cisco DNA-C, Prime, Nagios, PRTG, Infoblox, and Cisco ISE.
- Familiarity with ITSM tools such as ServiceNow.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
- Willingness to participate in on-call support rotation (including P1 response).
Desirable Skills
- Strong understanding of data centre architecture and service management.
- Experience with packet analysis and VPN/WAF/firewall solutions.
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues quickly and effectively.
- Focus on service uptime and customer-first support.
- Automation-first mindset with demonstrable outcomes.
Eligibility
Due to the nature of the role, candidates must hold active SC clearance and be British citizens.
Network Operations Center Engineer employer: SmartChoice International Limited
Contact Detail:
SmartChoice International Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Operations Center Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your active SC clearance in any conversations or networking opportunities. This is a crucial requirement for the role, and showcasing it early can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific monitoring tools mentioned in the job description, such as Cisco DNA-C and Nagios. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with these tools during interviews will demonstrate your technical expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former NOC Engineers, especially those who have worked in secure environments. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even refer you internally, increasing your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with ITIL frameworks and how you've handled major incidents in the past. Being able to articulate your problem-solving skills and operational excellence will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Network Operations Center Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the NOC Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the key skills mentioned in the job description, such as knowledge of network data and security technologies.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your hands-on experience with routers, switches, and monitoring tools, as well as your SC clearance status.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and your understanding of the company's needs. Mention specific examples of how your previous experience makes you a great fit for the NOC Engineer position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at SmartChoice International Limited
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with routers, switches, and firewalls. Highlight specific projects where you successfully managed network infrastructure or resolved major incidents, as this will demonstrate your technical expertise.
✨Understand the ITIL Framework
Since the role involves responding to incidents within an ITIL framework, brush up on ITIL principles. Be ready to explain how you've applied these principles in past roles, particularly in managing escalations and service requests.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner, as you'll need to collaborate with various internal teams and possibly explain issues to non-technical stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Approach
The ideal candidate is proactive and focused on operational excellence. Prepare examples of how you've identified automation opportunities or improved processes in previous roles, showcasing your commitment to enhancing service uptime and efficiency.
