Landing a networking gig?

So I finished my CCNA R/S a month back and am pursuing my CCNP R/S as we speak(haven't gotten to far just started) but I am not having any luck getting replies for entry level networking gig. I am not even looking at Jr. Network admin since I can't get a response for entry level.
Can you guys provide feedback on how can i land my first gig. Been in the IT industry for 5 years and changing career paths.
Right now my current job is a Data Analyst, would it be better if I were in the desktop/ server support role or a help desk role?

Thanks in advance.

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Comments

Node Man

It appears (myself included) many get our IT start by doing contract work. A staffing agency got me started.

Also - being willing to work the graveyard shift over the weekend helps open some doors.

tecnodog7

I've been working with recruiters but no one really has entry level position available. I am willing to work what ever shifts and even relocate if I have to but not getting a bite.

LeBroke

Problem with specifically networking (and, well, a few other specializations), is that an entry-level networking job is typically a mid-level job otherwise. Your best bet is to try to get a job at something like a NOC or data centre where you will be doing slightly more than answering tickets, and going from there. It might be (and probably will be) a paycut, so your call.

Another possible way is to get a job as an ISP technician and try to get promoted, but that has the downside of laying a lot of cable or going to houses to fix their internet. Pay and benefits will probably be slightly better to start than a NOC, though.

tecnodog7

What about getting into Desktop support / Server support and going from there? Been contacting staffing agency and they are saying their clients needs experience individual.

NetworkNewb

I've been looking for entry level networking positions in my area and they seem few and far between. Everyone wants someone with 5 years of networking experience. But right now I'm working on the desktop/server support side. My end goal is getting into the info security field so just getting my feet wet in everything atm.

DoubleNNs

How about Data Center gigs? Depending on where you're located and how far you're willing to commute, there's a few in the NY area.

They might, however, be a step backwards for you from Data Analyst (and might entail a temporary paycut). Data Center roles usually start off very hardware based - racking and stacking servers, detecting, troubleshooting, and remediating server hardware failures. Then you're mostly layer 1 networking for a while before you get to do any core systems/networking. However, the positions do seem to be a good intermediary step before landing a core networking gig.

Other than working in a Data Center, you should look into NOC roles or "Junior" Network Admin positions.

What type of skills are carrying over from your Data Analyst experience?

Edit: Seems like LeBroke has the same mindset I do.

OfWolfAndMan

I know I've gave my recommendations to you before man, but do you have any local colleagues that may be able to provide you with a recommendation? That really helps, I'll tell you. Also, as a couple other guys here have said, being flexible in regards to position is another factor. I don't mean necessarily hitting helpdesk, as dba skills could be useful. I mean broadening your search terms. "Network admin", "Junior network engineer", "data center technician", "network technician", "systems/network admin", "network admin" "network/data analyst", or anything synonymous to that. Also, some systems admin/analysts tend to have some network-based requirements in the job descriptions as well.

goldenlight

tecnodog7 wrote: »

I've been working with recruiters but no one really has entry level position available. I am willing to work what ever shifts and even relocate if I have to but not getting a bite.

Agree. I start to wonder if it is nothing more then contract gigs. My current employer is only interested in an
Senior level network folks. Oh well so much for moving up. At lease I'm getting experience working tickets .

gadav478

I can understand. Most people I know that working in networking (myself included) started at a "Desktop/Helpdesk/Level 1 anything" job and got promoted from there. Have you already posted your resume?