NetOps Lead Mid

Network Operations Lead (NOC) DoD Environment | Cisco | Cherry Point, NC

We are seeking a hands-on Network Operations Lead to support a high-impact DoD environment in Cherry Point, NC.

This is a technical leadership role within a 24/7 NOC. You will serve as the escalation point for complex network issues, guide operations staff, and help maintain stability across enterprise WAN/LAN infrastructure. This position requires someone who leads from the front staying hands-on while driving performance and accountability across the team.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations within a mission-critical NOC environment
• Act as the primary escalation point for routing, switching, and network outages
• Support and mentor network operations staff while remaining technically engaged
• Drive incident management, change management, and root cause analysis
• Develop and refine SOPs, processes, and operational standards
• Support network architecture, topology planning, and technology refresh initiatives
• Ensure compliance with DoD security policies, STIGs, and cybersecurity requirements
• Analyze monitoring tools and logs to proactively identify and resolve issues
• Collaborate with engineers, administrators, and stakeholders on integrated solutions
• Produce clear documentation, reporting, and operational updates

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on experience with Cisco routing and switching
• Experience with BGP, OSPF, VLANs, ACLs, and WAN/LAN troubleshooting
• Background in a NOC or network operations environment (Tier 2 or higher)
• Ability to manage escalations in a 24/7 operational setting
• Experience with network monitoring tools, ticketing systems, and incident response
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical issues to leadership

Requirements

• 5+ years of network operations or engineering experience
• DoD 8570 compliance:
  • Security+ (IAT Level II) required
  • IAT Level III preferred depending on environment
• Cisco certification:
  • CCNA required
  • CCNP preferred
• High School Diploma or GED (higher education is a plus)

Preferred Experience

• Experience supporting DoD or cleared environments
• Familiarity with Cisco Catalyst (9000 series), DNA Center
• Experience with ServiceNow or similar platforms
• Background supporting enterprise or government-scale networks

Why This Role

• Combination of leadership responsibility and hands-on technical work
• Direct impact on mission-critical network operations
• Opportunity to influence processes and operational standards
• High-visibility role with long-term growth potential

Fit

This role is best suited for someone who is already acting as an escalation point within their team, is comfortable owning issues end-to-end, and can lead others without stepping away from the technical work.