WACREN is recruiting a Network Operations Engineer (NOC Engineer) to support the operation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of its regional research and education network infrastructure. This role is critical to ensuring high service availability, performance, and reliability across WACREN’s network and its connected National Research and Education Networks (NRENs). About the Role The Network Operations Engineer will work with the NOC team to deploy, operate, and maintain WACREN’s core network infrastructure. The role involves hands-on network operations, monitoring, troubleshooting, security implementation, documentation, and coordination with internal teams, partners, and vendors to ensure seamless service delivery. Key Responsibilities Support the deployment, operation, monitoring, and maintenance of the WACREN network. Configure, install, and manage network devices and services including routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, load balancers, monitoring and security systems. Perform network maintenance, upgrades, patching, and security hardening. Monitor network performance, resource utilization, and support capacity planning. Provide Level 2 and Level 3 troubleshooting and incident resolution. Implement and maintain security, backup, redundancy, and disaster recovery procedures Produce and maintain technical documentation including network topology and operational procedures. Collaborate with NRENs to develop shared operational and monitoring processes. Liaise with vendors, data centers, peers, and partners to resolve technical issues. Provide technical training and actively participate in relevant network operator and standards forums. Perform other related duties as assigned by management. What’s in It for You? Opportunity to work on a world-class regional research and education network. Hands-on experience with advanced network technologies and large-scale infrastructure. Professional growth through collaboration with expert engineers and regional partners. Contribution to strengthening Africa’s research and education ecosystem. Eligibility Criteria Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field with a network engineering focus. Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a Network Operations Center or similar role. Strong hands-on experience in routing and switching, including IS-IS and BGP. Experience configuring and managing Juniper and/or Cisco network equipment. Solid understanding of network and systems security, including MANRS, RPKI, BGPSEC, and IPv6. Experience managing high-performance, distributed networks. Understanding and familiarity with the Linux OS. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills. Ability to work independently and travel within and outside the WACREN region when required. Fluency in English or French, with working knowledge of the other language. Desirable: Juniper and/or Cisco professional certifications. Experience with working with team collaborative tools like Zoom, Jira, slack etc (desirable) Role Details Duration: 3 years, renewable. Focus Areas: Network architecture, backbone upgrades, performance monitoring, incident response. Compensation: Competitive salary package. How to Apply Submit the following documents to vacancy@wacren.net with the subject line: “NOC Engineer– <Your Name>” Deadline: February 20, 2026 CV outlining relevant experience. Cover letter (max. 500 words) expressing your motivation and suitability. Two professional references. Selection Process Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; shortlisted candidates will be interviewed. Why Apply? This role offers a unique opportunity to operate and enhance mission-critical network infrastructure serving research and education institutions across Africa, while building advanced technical expertise and contributing to regional digital transformation.
