Operations Centers

Is there a list of Network Operations Centers?

Yes, several actually. Two of the best are the Puck list(which has been in operation for many years) and the NOC contacts available in PeeringDB.

Any advice for someone setting up a new NOC?

For detailed discussion, try INET Ops - we can offer a little sage advice here.

First, how much does it cost? That all depends on your method. A fully staffed two-people-must-be-present rule NOC runs around $1.2M without hardware needed to do the actual monitoring. This includes shift supervisors for three shifts. If you did it where your first shift (9 to 5) staff are remote then it is far cheaper ($0) but requires pagers, communications for out-of-reach people, backup contact strategies, really good monitoring and out of band notification. It is feasible. You should first determine your requirements and then determine your method.

Where can I go to find a list of NOC/operational job postings?

Try Monster.COM, Dice.com, Hotjobs, or craigsist.