Network Patch Management Analyst

Job Role: Network Patch Management Analyst

Location: Cary NC or Jacksonville FL (Onsite)

Type: Fulltime

ROLE SUMMARY

The L1 Network Patch Management Analyst supports the scheduling, co-ordination, and tracking of firmware and software updates across network devices (routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless infrastructure). The role focuses on executing pre-approved change tasks, performing health verification, and maintaining accurate patch records, under the direction of L2 engineers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Co-ordinate and track network device firmware/software patching activities (Cisco IOS/IOS-XE, Juniper JunOS, Aruba, Palo Alto) as per approved change records.
• Perform pre-patch tasks: verify device backups, confirm maintenance window communications, and validate access.
• Execute standard patching steps (image upload, verify MD5/SHA hash, schedule reload) under L2 supervision.
• Monitor device health post-patching: verify interface states, routing table, and connectivity.
• Log patch activity and outcomes in ITSM tickets (ServiceNow / Remedy).
• Maintain network device firmware inventory and flag devices with outdated or end-of-support software.
• Communicate maintenance windows to impacted stakeholders and NOC teams.
• Escalate unexpected device failures, routing disruptions, or patching errors to L2 immediately.
• Assist in generating weekly patch compliance reports for the network estate.

TECHNICAL SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Basic understanding of networking fundamentals: OSI model, IP addressing, VLANs, routing basics.
• Familiarity with Cisco IOS CLI commands (show version, copy commands, reload).
• Awareness of device backup processes (TFTP/SCP configuration backups).
• Basic knowledge of network management systems (SolarWinds, Cisco Works, or similar).
• Ability to follow detailed step-by-step patching runbooks.
• Understanding of ITSM change management and maintenance window concepts.

SOFT SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Accurate and methodical capable of following change procedures without deviation.
• Clear communication for co-ordinating maintenance windows with NOC and application teams.
• Comfortable working in shift / on-call environments including nights and weekends.
• Escalates promptly and accurately when issues arise.

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• CompTIA Network+
• ITIL 4 Foundation

Disclaimer

HCL is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of race, religion, sex, color, age, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, physical disability or genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with federal, state, and/or local law. Should any applicant have concerns about discrimination in the hiring process, they should provide a detailed report of those concerns to for investigation.

Compensation and Benefits

A candidate s pay within the range will depend on their work location, skills, experience, education, and other factors permitted by law. This role may also be eligible for performance-based bonuses subject to company policies. In addition, this role is eligible for the following benefits subject to company policies: medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, life, accidental death & dismemberment, and disability insurance; employee assistance program; 401(k) retirement plan; 10 days of paid time off per year (some positions are eligible for need-based leave with no designated number of leave days per year); and 10 paid holidays per year.