Network Architect Career Guide

Sample job description

[Your Company Name] is hiring an experienced network architect. Network architects are responsible for managing an organization’s network systems. They make sure all computers communicate safely and seamlessly, manage wireless access points, data storage and retrieval, and much more. These architects keep companies talking by ensuring they can communicate both internally and externally by installing and maintaining LAN and WAN networks, routers, modems, and computer systems. They also work closely with other engineers, architects, and technical experts and may liaise with upper management contacts to prevent and resolve technical issues. Are you an analytical thinker with a knack for problem-solving? Are you a great team player with keen attention to detail? If so, please apply!

Typical duties and responsibilities

• Manage technical network solutions and frameworks
• Perform network troubleshooting to isolate and diagnose common network problems
• Upgrade network hardware and software components as required
• Design, test, and inspect network systems
• Perform network planning, modeling, and analysis
• Install and maintain hardware such as cables, hubs, routers, and wireless adaptors
• Design, implement, and manage security countermeasures when network vulnerabilities arise
• Analyze, engineer, and execute software functions
• Develop and deliver professional proposals and design documentation
• Manage technology vendors

Education and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, information technology, or a related field required
• Master’s degree in business administration preferred
• 5-10 years of experience working with information technologies preferred
• Certification in CompTIA A+ or CCENT preferred

Required skills and qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of computer operations and systems
• Expertise in written and verbal communication skills
• Certifications courses such as CompTIA A+ or CCENT are a plus
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Keen attention to detail

Preferred qualifications

• Strong communication skills both oral and written
• Strong computer skills including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong computer skills in Windows products and must be able to learn new computer programs as required to perform job functions

Available certifications

As network architects work in a variety of industries, there are many institutions that offer certifications, including:

• Network 5 Certification – This EC-Council certification provides the most basic, foundational understanding of networks. You’ll learn the concepts and best practices for creating and maintaining functional networks. This is an excellent certification to obtain if you’re new to the field and working your way to higher levels of training and responsibility.
• Cisco CCIE Routing and Switching – Obtaining this certification will demonstrate an expert-level understanding and knowledge of networking across various LAN and WAN interfaces. You’ll be well-versed in a variety of routing and switching systems, and have an excellent understanding of the foundation of business networking.
• CCNP Service Provider Operations – This Cisco certification reinforces and validates knowledge within the scope of troubleshooting and maintaining network infrastructures. By obtaining this certification, you can identify and isolate performance problems, implement fallback and fault measures, and keep the integrity of frameworks and management systems.
• CCIE Data Center – By obtaining this certification, the holder demonstrates expert-level skill in preparing, planning, monitoring, and operating high-level, complex data center networks. Those who gain this certification have demonstrated an exceptional level of understanding and hold the highest level of technical skill as certified by Cisco.