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How to Become A Network Operations Analyst

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What is a Network Operations Analyst

A Network Operations Analyst keeps an organisation’s network running smoothly. They check network health, fix speed issues, and suggest upgrades to hardware and software.

This role spans finance, government, telco, and IT services. Day to day, analysts watch network traffic, run backups, plan upgrades, and fix faults. The role falls under ANZSCO 263113 (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

Demand is rated Strong and the field is growing. About 94% of analysts work full-time, so it is a solid career with great job security. Top earners can make over $120,000 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

If you love tech and want a hands-on role, this career is worth looking into. No two days look the same as a Network Operations Analyst.

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Career Outlook for Network Operations Analyst

The job market for Network Operations Analysts in Australia is strong. About 1,600 people work in this role, with 94% in full-time jobs (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). The median age is 42, so there is lots of room for younger workers coming in.

Future demand is rated Strong by yourcareer.gov.au. As businesses invest in cloud systems, digital change, and cyber security, the need for skilled network staff keeps growing. Top hiring sectors include finance, telco, IT services, and government.

With the right skills and a few years of work, analysts can move into senior network or IT management roles. Pay rises with experience and top-level certs. This is a career with a clear growth path and great long-term prospects.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Network Operations Analyst

Step 1: Complete a Certificate IV in Information Technology (ICT40120)

Enrol in the Certificate IV in Information Technology (ICT40120) at a TAFE or RTO. This takes 12 to 18 months full-time and covers networking basics, IT support, and hardware management. It is the standard entry point for an ICT career in Australia.

Step 2: Complete a Diploma or bachelor degree in IT

Complete the Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50220) with an Advanced Networking focus at a TAFE or RTO. This takes one to two years and builds skills in setting up and managing network systems. You can also study a Bachelor of IT or Bachelor of Computer Science at university over three years full-time. A degree opens doors to senior analyst and engineering roles.

Step 3: Gain entry-level IT experience

Apply for entry-level roles such as IT helpdesk, network support officer, or junior systems admin. Aim for one to two years of hands-on work. This helps you apply your training and build the practical skills employers want most.

Step 4: Earn an industry certification

Earn a key industry cert to stand out. The CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) covers routing, switching, and network basics. Allow three to six months for self-paced study. CompTIA Network+ is another good option and takes two to three months. Both are well known by employers across Australia.

Step 5: Apply for Network Operations Analyst positions

Once you have your quals and some experience, start looking for Network Operations Analyst roles. Tailor your resume to show network monitoring, fault-finding, and tools you know. Entry-level job titles include NOC Technician, Junior Network Analyst, and Network Support Analyst.

Step 6: Join the ACS and keep your skills current

Join the Australian Computer Society (ACS) to access training resources, industry events, and a network of IT professionals. As you advance, pursue higher certs such as the CCNP or cloud networking creds. Ongoing learning is key in a field where tech changes fast.

What does a Network Operations Analyst do?

A Network Operations Analyst monitors network health and checks traffic patterns every day. They run system backups, plan hardware and software upgrades, and fix faults before they cause outages. Analysts write up every change for compliance and work closely with other IT teams to keep things on track. This is a hands-on role with real variety day to day.

Tasks

Network Operations Analysts are essential in any tech-dependent organisation. They keep the network running so every other team can do its job. Here is what a typical day can look like:

  • Monitor network activity and performance in real time.
  • Analyse system design and architecture specs to support development and integration.
  • Recommend improvements to network hardware, software, and communication systems.
  • Run regular data backups and system maintenance tasks.
  • Plan and carry out software and hardware upgrades.
  • Troubleshoot and fix network issues quickly and efficiently.
  • Document changes, configurations, and updates for records and compliance.
  • Train and support staff on network tools and best practices.

Skills for Success

To do well as a Network Operations Analyst, you need solid IT skills and a sharp eye for detail. Learn to use network monitoring tools, routing and switching protocols, and basic scripting for automation.

You also need to speak clearly. Analysts explain tech problems to people with no tech background. Keeping focused under stress and working well in a team will help you stand out.

Skills & Attributes

  • Network monitoring and diagnostics
  • Knowledge of routing and switching protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF)
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Hardware and software troubleshooting
  • Understanding of cybersecurity principles
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Time management and organisation
  • Basic scripting (Python, Bash)
  • Adaptability to new technologies
  • Documentation and reporting skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration

Average Salaries

Network Operations Analysts in Australia earn between $65,000 and $130,000 a year. The average annual pay sits at around $90,000, based on recent data from PayScale (2024) and yourcareer.gov.au (2025). Pay rises with experience, top certs, and the size of the networks managed.

min $65 K

max $130 K

av $90 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.