Entry-level NOC positions

Can an entry-level NOC position lead to better roles in the future? I'm in the process of applying for one that is just monitoring and making tickets. I was told that it can be a way to get a foot in the door for networking type roles, but I'm not so sure.

Since the role is only monitoring I won't be touching switches or routers. This seems like a step backwards because a network tech job I had in the past I was able to log into the switches and I also was able to install them.

I just don't see how a monitoring position can get me a position in the future touching switches and routers if I don't work with them in that position. I can see maybe being able to prove how good of an employee I am and potentially being able to apply to internal openings, but that's it. Even that is debatable since it's a contract position.

Can a contract position potentially lead to a higher level job at the same company? What about at other companies outside the company I would be working at?

My main concern is that I do this job and in the end it doesn't get me any closer to a senior role. If offered should I hold out for other potential jobs or take this one? Is there anything else I'm not taking into consideration?

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Comments

techfiend

Sure it can, just because the job responsibilities are monitoring that doesn't mean that's all you can do. Be proactive by asking what's wrong and you could also find engineers that are willing to show you some things, resume padding.

It's not a guarantee but employee's that show the hunger to learn are usually first promoted.

E Double U

I went from NOC to config/migrations to SOC to bank security.

BlackBeret

You can easily move roles within most companies. Even with it being a contract position. You might have to be rehired by another section manager, you might have a minimum time in a role before you can apply to internal positions, etc. It's honestly going to be company dependent. Ask in the interview, let them know that you think you'll be a good fit for the position you're applying for now, but you think the best thing for an employee is to be able to continue to learn and grow. Ask what the growth opportunities are within the company.

thomas_

From the posts here so far it seems like advancement within a company to a higher role is doable. Does the same hold true for getting a higher role at a different company after doing a monitoring-only position?

you could also find engineers that are willing to show you some things, resume padding.

I'm assuming I would have to do this by sticking around after my shift? If the engineers are full-time and I'm just a contractor would they still be willing to show me some things?

Ismaeljrp

Monitoring and making tickets only?
Sounds more like customer service than an actual NOC position...

I wouldn't take it honestly unless I was out of a job and in desperate need for income.

thomas_

Ismaeljrp wrote: »

I wouldn't take it honestly unless I was out of a job and in desperate need for income.

Yeah, I'm not too enthused about it. One of the big reasons I'm considering it, if they extend an offer, is because I'm currently unemployed. I'm comfortable waiting another month or two, but if they offer a job and I decline it there's no guarantee I will get another offer.

I do seem to be getting a decent number of call backs from my resume though. One recruiter mentioned that this time of year is kind of slow for jobs. I'm kind of wondering if it's worth it to hold out for other jobs.

kurosaki00

Support --> JoA --> NOC (layer 1.5) --> Jr Network Eng

So, yes it will. But it also has to do with the type of job. Some NOCs are nothing more than an alarm/create a ticket and kick. Others will let you log in into devices, do show commands, go over topologies, etc.
Obviously you will learn more from one than the other.