Network Engineer Career Guide

What is a network engineer?

A network engineer is someone who works in IT and focuses on all the stuff that lets computers talk to each other in a company. Their main job is to set up and keep these systems running smoothly so that everyone in the company can share and send information easily. They also make sure that these systems are safe from hackers and other security risks.

Duties and responsibilities

Network engineers have a bunch of important jobs. They plan and build the network systems tailored to a business’s needs. This means they also have to check the systems regularly, find and fix any problems, and sometimes update the system to make sure it keeps working well.

They also look into new technologies to make the network faster and more efficient. On top of all that, they have to watch over the network to stop any security threats, install protective software, and follow security rules.

Work environment

Network engineers usually work in offices, especially in places like banks, hospitals, schools, or government buildings where a good network is key. They work with other IT folks and often talk to management to help plan how the network can help the business reach its goals. The job isn’t dangerous since it doesn’t involve physical risks.

Typical work hours

Network engineers typically work full-time during regular office hours. But because computer networks need to be on 24/7, they might also need to work some nights or weekends to keep things running smoothly or to fix sudden problems. It’s common for them to be on call in case of emergencies too.

---

How to become a network engineer

Becoming a network engineer is all about learning, gaining experience, and improving your skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start your journey:

Step 1: Finish high school

First up, finish high school or its equivalent. Focus on math and computer science because these subjects will really help later. It’s a good idea to also learn a bit about computers on your own or through short courses.

Step 2: Earn a college degree

Next, you’ll need a college degree. While some jobs might be fine with a two-year associate’s degree, most jobs ask for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or something similar. College will teach you about programming, how computers work, and more.

Step 3: Gain hands-on experience

Now, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Try to get internships or entry-level jobs where you can use what you’ve learned in real-world situations. This step is super important because it helps you understand the daily work of a network engineer.

Step 4: Get certified

After getting some experience, think about getting certified. Certifications like Cisco’s CCNA or Microsoft’s Azure Solutions Architect show that you know your stuff. They can really help you stand out when applying for jobs, but remember, you’ll need to renew them every few years.

Step 5: Start applying for jobs

With your degree, experience, and certifications, you’re ready to apply for network engineer jobs. Keep your resume up to date with all your qualifications and experiences. You might start in junior positions, but with hard work, you can move up.

Step 6: Keep learning

Technology keeps changing, so you’ll need to keep learning to stay on top. Go to workshops, take extra courses, and stay connected with what’s new in your field. This will help you grow and could even lead to higher positions like network manager or network architect.

---

How much do network engineers make?

Network engineer salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. Their specific expertise in network types (such as wired, wireless, and cloud-based), proficiency in different networking technologies, and knowledge of various network protocols can also influence compensation.

Highest paying industries

• Securities and Commodity Contracts: $115,590
• Software Publishers: $101,560
• Data Processing and Hosting: $107,780
• Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing: $108,270
• Telecommunications: $101,450

Browse network engineer salary data by market

---

Types of network engineers

Network engineers can specialize in different areas, each with its own set of responsibilities. Here’s a quick look at some common types:

Network architect

Network architects design and build networks, like local and wide area networks, and even huge intranets that span across countries. Their job is to plan how these networks will look and work, connecting everything from small offices to big global companies.

Systems engineer

Systems engineers handle both the software and hardware needed to run a company’s IT environment. They set up these systems, make sure they run well, and fix any issues that come up. It’s a role that requires knowing a lot about different types of technology.

Network analyst

Network analysts keep an eye on how well a company’s network is working. They check the performance, solve problems, and work closely with security teams to protect the company’s data. It’s all about making sure everything runs smoothly and securely.

Security engineer

Security engineers focus on protecting networks from cyber threats. They combine their knowledge of software and hardware to find weaknesses and build defenses against hackers. Their work is critical in keeping a company’s data safe from cyber attacks.

Network administrator

Network administrators manage the day-to-day operations of a network. This includes adding new users, setting up security measures, and fixing any network issues that arise. They ensure that the network is efficient and problem-free for everyone in the organization.

---

Top skills for network engineers

Becoming a top-notch network engineer means mastering a variety of skills that can help you handle complex network systems and interact effectively with others. Here are the key skills you’ll need:

Technical skills

Understanding different types of networks—like LANs, WANs, and WLANs—is a must. You should know how to physically set up these networks, tweak their settings, and ensure they’re secure. Being familiar with network protocols, various operating systems, and standards is also crucial. Plus, you need the technical expertise to design, set up, and manage hardware like servers and routers.

Problem-solving ability

Networks can be tricky and sometimes things go wrong. Being a good problem-solver means quickly figuring out what’s not working and finding a way to fix it. You need to be sharp in spotting issues and clever in figuring out why they’re happening.

Project management

Setting up or updating a network can be a big project. You need to be good at planning, organizing everything needed, and making sure everyone involved is on track. This means managing your time well and keeping your team coordinated.

Analytical skills

It’s not just about keeping the network running; you also have to check how well it’s performing. This involves looking at data usage, finding any slow spots, and suggesting improvements or updates to make the network better.

Communication skills

Whether you’re explaining tech stuff to people who aren’t tech-savvy or working with your team, being able to communicate clearly is super important. You need to make complex ideas easy to understand and ensure that you’re getting your point across effectively.

---

Network engineer career path options

Network engineering is a field brimming with opportunities for growth and specialization. Here’s how you can advance your career as a network engineer:

Career progression

As you gain experience in network engineering, you’ll find various paths to explore based on your interests and skills. You could step up to a senior network engineer position, where you handle more complex projects, or evolve into a network architect role, focusing on designing large-scale networks. Another option is to move into IT management, where you’d lead a team and shape the overall IT strategy for your organization.

Leadership opportunities

With experience, moving into a senior network engineer role is a natural progression. In this role, you’re still hands-on but will also manage projects and lead teams. If you’re drawn to strategic planning and managing people, transitioning to an IT management role could be a perfect fit. This role shifts your focus from day-to-day technical tasks to overseeing budgets, setting timelines, and enhancing team performance.

Specialization

Specializing in a specific area of network engineering can also propel your career forward. For instance, if cloud technology intrigues you, becoming a cloud networking specialist might be the right path. This role involves understanding and managing networks in cloud environments, which is increasingly in demand.

Alternatively, if you’re passionate about protecting networks from threats, consider becoming a cybersecurity specialist. This role is crucial as security challenges grow more complex, and it requires a deep understanding of how to safeguard information and network systems.

---

Similar job titles

• Network Administrator
• Network Architect
• Systems Engineer
• Network Operations Manager
• IT Specialist
• IT Manager
• Systems Administrator
• IT Director
• Security Engineer
• Telecommunications Engineer

---

Position trends and outlook for network engineers

The role of network engineers is changing quickly as businesses push further into digital transformation. Here’s what’s shaping the field and what it means for those in or entering this career.

• Evolution of the role: Network engineering is moving from a focus on hardware to more software-centric responsibilities. This shift is driven by the adoption of cloud computing and the increase in data traffic from IoT devices.
• Importance of security: As cyber threats grow more advanced, understanding and implementing cybersecurity protocols is vital. These engineers are expected to actively manage and mitigate risks to protect the company’s ICT infrastructure against cyber-attacks.

Employment projections

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment for network and computer systems administrators, which includes network engineers, is expected to grow by 4% through 2031. This growth rate aligns with the average for all occupations. Their demand is likely to increase as companies continue to upgrade their technology and expand their mobile networks.

---

Network engineer career tips

Focus on practical experience

Real-world skills are crucial in network engineering. Start by setting up networks at home or volunteer for local organizations to gain practical experience. As you grow, look for internships or entry-level jobs that provide exposure to larger and more complex network systems. This hands-on experience is invaluable and highly sought after by employers.

Obtain relevant certifications

Certifications can boost your career significantly. They show your dedication and expertise in your field. For network engineering, consider certifications like the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). These certifications not only enhance your resume but often lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.

Keep up with tech advancements

Technology evolves rapidly, and staying current is essential. Keep yourself informed by subscribing to industry magazines, attending webinars, and participating in networking forums. This ongoing learning helps you stay relevant and knowledgeable about the latest in networking.

Fine-tune your problem-solving skills

At the core of network engineering is the ability to solve problems efficiently. Sharpen this skill by setting up, managing, and troubleshooting networks, even in a home setting. Practice solving real and hypothetical network issues to improve your troubleshooting capabilities.

Build a professional network

Networking with other pros can open up new opportunities and help you stay informed about industry trends. Engage in industry events, participate in online forums, and connect on social platforms dedicated to network engineering. Joining professional associations can also enhance your network and provide access to resources and career opportunities. Consider groups like:

• Association of Network Professionals
• International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology
• Association for Computing Machinery’s Special Interest Group on Data Communication

Prioritize continuous learning

The network engineering field is always advancing, so continuous learning is crucial. Here’s how to keep learning:

• Attend webinars or online courses on the latest networking tech
• Subscribe to relevant journals or blogs to keep up with new trends
• Seek advanced certifications to deepen your knowledge and refine your skills

---

FAQs