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Network Operations Manager Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

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Network Operations Manager information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$21.3K

$98.2K

$141.5K

How much do network operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for network operations manager in Columbus, OH is $98,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,100.00 and $110,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by network operations managers, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Network Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as minimizing network downtime, managing multiple priorities, and ensuring rapid response to incidents. Balancing proactive maintenance with reactive troubleshooting requires strong organizational skills and close collaboration with IT teams, vendors, and sometimes clients. Effective communication, implementing robust monitoring tools, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement can help address these challenges and maintain network reliability.

What is a network operations manager?

Network Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and performance of an organization's computer networks. They manage teams of network engineers and technicians, ensure network reliability and security, and handle incidents or outages. Their role includes planning for future network needs, implementing upgrades, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. They also coordinate with other departments to align network services with business goals.

What is the difference between Network Operations Manager vs Network Engineer?

AspectNetwork Operations ManagerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in IT or related field, with certifications like Cisco CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Network+Requires similar certifications such as Cisco CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Network+; often more technical focus
Work EnvironmentOversees network teams, manages operations, and ensures network reliability in enterprise settingsDesigns, implements, and troubleshoots network infrastructure, often working hands-on with hardware and software
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by large corporations, service providers, and government agenciesFound in various industries, including IT firms, telecom, and corporate IT departments

The main difference is that Network Operations Managers focus on overseeing network performance, managing teams, and strategic planning, while Network Engineers are more involved in the technical design, implementation, and troubleshooting of network systems. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a network operations manager, and why are they important?

To excel as a Network Operations Manager, you need a solid background in network administration, troubleshooting, and IT management, typically backed by a relevant degree and experience in network operations. Familiarity with network monitoring tools (such as SolarWinds or Nagios), ITIL frameworks, and certifications like CCNP or CompTIA Network+ are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and responding to network issues. These competencies are essential to ensure network reliability, minimize downtime, and drive operational efficiency in business-critical environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Operations jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Network Operations jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Operations Manager jobs in Columbus, OH? For Network Operations Manager jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Network Operations Manager jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Network Operations Manager jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Network Operations Manager jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Network Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Operations Manager job openings in Columbus, OH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,207 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Telecom Manager - Network Operations Center

Aep

Gahanna, OH

$136K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

08-07-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

The Telecommunications Manager is responsible for directly managing and developing telecommunications technical staff, building and sustaining collaborative relationships with Operating Company and Business Unit management, and with external partners, suppliers and vendors, and managing annual O&M and capital budgets. The Manager is expected to gain acceptance as a peer and equal partner when working directly with Operating Company and Business Unit management. The Manager will supervise and develop high performance teams of competent employees to effectively support our customers; operate, maintain and repair a reliable telecommuncations infrastructure and efficient Telecommunications systems; and produce high value results through continuous improvement and exceptional performance. The Manager will promote and apply Telecommunications solutions to meet the needs and align with the strategies of our Operating Company and Business Unit customers. He/she will lead the team to complete projects and perform all Telecommunications work activities via efficient processes and effective use of resources. The Manager will establish and maintain an open and collaborative environment that promotes safety, accountability, engagement and continuous improvement within and throughout the Telecommunications organization.

Job Description

What Will You Do?

  • Lead AEP's 24x7 Network Operations Center (NOC), ensuring reliable operation, continuous monitoring, and rapid restoration of critical network and telecommunications infrastructure.

  • Drive the transformation of network operations from a reactive alert-and-dispatch model to a proactive, intelligence-driven operating model.

  • Identify key failure types, monitor leading indicators of network degradation, and implement repeatable troubleshooting and resolution processes.

  • Build, develop, and lead a high-performing, around-the-clock operations team.

  • Oversee event correlation, troubleshooting, escalation management, and continuous process improvement.

  • Partner with Telecom Engineering & Operations to reduce customer impact and improve service reliability.

  • Improve Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Restore (MTTR).

  • Support operational excellence, resilience, and modernization initiatives across AEP's network operations environment.

What We Are Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field;

  • Associate degree in a related field plus 4+ years of applicable technical experience

  • High School Diploma/GED plus 8+ years of applicable technical experience.

Additional Experience

  • 8+ years of Telecommunications/IT experience with progressive levels of responsibility; supervisory experience preferred.

  • Proven ability to lead 24x7 operational teams and manage shift-based organizations.

  • Strong knowledge of network technologies, monitoring platforms, and event management systems (NMS/EMS, telemetry, alarms, analytics).

  • Demonstrated success driving proactive monitoring, failure prevention, and first-call resolution.

  • Strong communication skills with the ability to influence engineering, operations, and business stakeholders.

  • Calm and decisive leadership during major incidents and high-impact outages.

Licenses/Certifications

  • Relevant technical certifications preferred.

Other Requirements

  • Travel required.

  • Occasional overtime required.

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!"

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-010

Compensation Range:

$136,539.00 - $177,503.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.