Missile Defense Agency (MDA) NOC Technician IV at Leidos

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Missile Defense Agency (MDA) NOC Technician IV
Company: Leidos
Location: Shiloh, IL
Job Type: On-site
Category: Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician
Date Posted: 2025-07-30
Experience Level: 2-5 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Monitor network events, manage incident tickets, provide technical support, and ensure service restoration.
Key Technologies: Network monitoring tools, incident management systems, and various network hardware and software.
Key Skills: Network troubleshooting, incident analysis, fault management, and customer support.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

🔄 Network Monitoring & Incident Management

Monitor network events and element management failures in real-time using multiple monitoring tools.
Triage and manage ticket queues, providing feedback and guidance for complex tickets.
Create and update tickets utilizing Remedy, ensuring accurate documentation and timely resolution.

🛠 Incident Correlation & Fault Analysis

Proactively analyze alarms, providing detailed analyses leading to resolution of the alarm conditions.
Identify fault conditions and their impacts, isolate root causes, and coordinate correction of fault situations.
Assist in developing and maintaining a centralized error database containing defects, failures, causes, and repair actions.

📞 Incident Analysis & Fault Correction

Support the fault isolation process, diagnose and troubleshoot issues, and identify failed network elements.
Correct or replace faulty network elements, coordinating with other service providers as necessary.
Verify that service has been restored upon resolution of all customer-initiated tickets.

🌐 Network/Service Restoration

Restore networks and services to full operation, coordinating with other service providers as necessary.
Identify failures attributable to different causes and impacts, and conduct reroute and normalization of services and circuits due to outages, degradation, or Authorized Service Interruptions (ASIs).
Provide updates on outages from technicians and/or government incident tickets until a resolution or path to resolution is identified and documented in the ticket.

📢 Situational Awareness & Communication

Provide timely situational awareness to leadership and the impacted community within discovery and ticket creation using approved communication methods.
Effectively communicate with the NOC team, the customer, and outside leadership to obtain or provide information on significant events or changes within the DISN.

🧠 Technical Expertise & Support

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of networking principles, theories, and concepts, and apply them to resolve complex issues.
Provide advanced level technical support of the DISN customer and independently work on projects or assignments for future operations within the NOC.
Resolve multi-layer complex issues that cross several NOCs or domains within the NOC.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in network management, incident analysis, or related field.

Required Skills:

Network monitoring and fault management experience.
Advanced knowledge in four or more of the following: routers, switches, crypto devices, routing, DSN/DRSN, Video Services, Promina, CISCO, Juniper, MSPP, DWDM, Optical Switching.
General understanding of network topologies, both transport and IP.
Ability to work in a 24/7 operation.
Strong communication and customer support skills.
Proficiency in using incident management systems and network monitoring tools.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with Remedy or similar incident management systems.
Familiarity with DISN (Defense Information System Network) services.
Knowledge of DoD-8570 IAT Level 2 baseline certification (Security+ CE, or equivalent) or higher.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience in network monitoring, incident analysis, and fault management through relevant projects or case studies.
Showcase proficiency in using incident management systems and network monitoring tools.
Highlight problem-solving skills and ability to resolve complex network issues.

Technical Documentation:

Provide documentation of network topologies, configurations, and troubleshooting processes.
Include examples of incident reports, root cause analysis, and resolution strategies.
Demonstrate understanding of network security principles and compliance with relevant standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $50,050 - $90,475 per year

Benefits:

Health and Wellness Programs
Income Protection
Paid Leave
Retirement

Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with rotating shifts to provide 24/7 coverage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense and Aerospace

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees)

Founded: 1969 (as SAIC; Leidos was formed in 2013)

Team Structure:

The NOC Technician IV role is part of the Digital Modernization Sector and Global Solutions Management-Operations II (GSMO-II) team.
The team supports the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and acts as the provider of GIG/Defense Information System Network (DISN) services to its customers, the Department of Defense (DoD) and national security organizations.
The NOC operates on a 24/7x365 basis, with multiple shifts and rotating schedules to ensure continuous network monitoring and incident management.

Development Methodology:

The NOC follows ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) best practices for incident management, problem management, and continuous service improvement.
The team uses Agile methodologies for project management and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines for software development and deployment.

Company Website: Leidos

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Mid-level NOC Technician with experience in network monitoring, incident analysis, and fault management.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the NOC Team Lead or Shift Supervisor, with regular interactions with other NOC team members, customers, and external service providers.

Technical Impact: Directly impacts the availability, performance, and security of the DISN, ensuring reliable and secure communication for the DoD and national security organizations.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Expand knowledge in emerging network technologies, advanced troubleshooting techniques, and incident management best practices.
Leadership Development: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior team members, leading projects, and contributing to process improvements.
Specialization: Specialize in specific network technologies, domains, or customer verticals to become a subject matter expert (SME).

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, with multiple shifts and rotating schedules to provide 24/7 network monitoring and incident management.

Office Location(s): Scott Air Force Base, IL

Workspace Context:

The NOC is a state-of-the-art facility with advanced network monitoring tools, incident management systems, and collaborative workspace.
The team works in an open, collaborative environment with multiple monitors, testing devices, and access to relevant documentation and resources.
The NOC is staffed with experienced network professionals, providing ample opportunities for knowledge sharing, mentoring, and continuous learning.

Work Schedule: Rotating shifts to provide 24/7 coverage, with regular hours and overtime as needed.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to assess communication skills, technical knowledge, and cultural fit.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on, scenario-based assessment of network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting skills.
Behavioral Interview: A structured interview focusing on problem-solving skills, customer support, and teamwork.
Final Review: A review of the candidate's portfolio, references, and final interview with the hiring manager.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight relevant network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting projects or case studies.
Include examples of incident reports, root cause analysis, and resolution strategies.
Demonstrate understanding of network security principles and compliance with relevant standards.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on network monitoring tools, incident management systems, and network hardware and software.
Practice incident analysis, fault management, and troubleshooting skills through hands-on exercises and case studies.
Review network topologies, protocols, and security principles relevant to the DISN.

ATS Keywords: Network Monitoring, Incident Management, Fault Analysis, Troubleshooting, Service Restoration, Customer Support, Problem Resolution, Network Topologies, Router Configuration, Switch Configuration, Security Clearance, Alarm Surveillance, Performance Management, Network Security, DoD-8570 IAT Level 2, DISN, Defense Information System Network.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Network Monitoring & Incident Management Tools:

Remedy (BMC FootPrint Service Desk)
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM)
Nagios
Zabbix
Other proprietary and commercial network monitoring tools

Network Hardware & Software:

Routers (CISCO, Juniper, others)
Switches (CISCO, Arista, others)
Crypto devices (CISCO, Juniper, others)
Firewalls (CISCO ASA, Palo Alto, others)
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)
Other network hardware and software components

Network Topologies:

Transport networks (DSN/DRSN, MPLS, VPN)
IP networks (IPv4, IPv6)
Hybrid and multi-cloud network architectures

Security Standards & Compliance:

DoD Information Assurance (IA) Directive 8570
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Clause 252.204-7012, Information Technology Security (ITS) Requirements

👥 Team Culture & Values

Network Operations Center (NOC) Values:

Customer Focus: Prioritize customer needs and ensure reliable, secure, and high-performing network services.
Collaboration: Work together to monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve network incidents efficiently and effectively.
Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with emerging network technologies, best practices, and industry trends.
Adaptability: Quickly respond to changing network conditions, incidents, and customer requirements.
Accountability: Take ownership of network performance, security, and customer satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

The NOC operates in a collaborative, team-based environment, with regular communication, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional teamwork.
The team uses Agile methodologies for project management, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines for software development and deployment, and ITIL best practices for incident management, problem management, and continuous service improvement.
The NOC works closely with other teams, such as network design, architecture, and customer support, to ensure seamless network services and customer satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Network Complexity: Manage complex, multi-vendor network environments with diverse topologies, protocols, and security requirements.
Incident Volume: Handle high volumes of network incidents, alarms, and service requests during peak hours and critical events.
Emerging Technologies: Stay current with emerging network technologies, such as SD-WAN, 5G, and IoT, and their integration into the DISN.
Cybersecurity Threats: Protect the DISN from evolving cybersecurity threats and ensure compliance with relevant security standards and regulations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Training: Participate in technical training programs, webinars, and workshops to enhance network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting skills.
Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications, such as DoD-8570 IAT Level 2 (Security+ CE, or equivalent) or higher, to demonstrate technical proficiency and career progression.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship opportunities from experienced NOC team members, network architects, and other technical experts to gain insights, guidance, and career development.
Conferences & Events: Attend industry conferences, events, and meetups to network with other network professionals, learn about emerging technologies, and share best practices.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Network Topologies: Describe the different network topologies (transport and IP) and their relevance to the DISN.
Incident Analysis: Walk through a complex network incident, explaining the incident analysis process, fault isolation, and resolution strategy.
Network Security: Discuss network security principles, standards, and compliance requirements relevant to the DISN.
Troubleshooting: Demonstrate troubleshooting skills by walking through a network issue, explaining the diagnostic process, and proposed resolution.

Company & Culture Questions:

NOC Culture: Describe the NOC's collaborative, customer-focused, and continuous learning culture, and how it contributes to network service excellence.
Incident Management: Explain the incident management process, including incident detection, analysis, escalation, and resolution.
Customer Support: Discuss the importance of customer support in the NOC and strategies for ensuring customer satisfaction.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Highlight relevant network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting projects or case studies.
Include examples of incident reports, root cause analysis, and resolution strategies.
Demonstrate understanding of network security principles and compliance with relevant standards.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this NOC Technician IV position:

Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting experience, as well as any relevant certifications or training.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing your network monitoring, incident analysis, and troubleshooting skills, including relevant projects, case studies, and incident reports.
Practice Technical Skills: Brush up on network monitoring tools, incident management systems, and network hardware and software through hands-on exercises and case studies.
Research the Company & Role: Familiarize yourself with Leidos, the NOC, and the DISN to demonstrate your understanding of the company, its mission, and the role's importance in ensuring reliable and secure network services for the DoD and national security organizations.

Missile Defense Agency (MDA) NOC Technician IV