Network Engineer Careers Information
Network engineers are responsible for the development and maintenance of organizations’ internal and external local area networks (LAN) or wide-area networks (WAN). These networks can be between a few offices, a few buildings, or span countries or even international office groups.
Network Engineer Careers & Degrees
- American Intercontinental University: Online
Colorado Technical University - Undergraduate: Undergraduate - Online
- B.S. in Information Technology - Network Management
- Master of Science in Information Technology - Network Management
Network engineers must conduct analysis of existing network structures, model proposed changes, and suggest and plan improvements. These tasks often include both hardware and software aspects of network maintenance, and engineers must therefore have substantial knowledge of both.
Network engineers often supervise or work in concert with other network specialists, security engineers, or other information technology (IT) specialists.
Network Engineer Careers Path
Network engineers require a bachelor’s degree, often in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). However, many degrees may serve just as well, provided the worker has basic computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, and statistical training.
Network Engineer Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Attention to detail, excellent problem-solving capabilities, strong quantitative abilities, strong interpersonal skills, ability to work with people, ability to multitask and track multiple projects simultaneously, dedication and willingness to stay current on changing technologies
Network Engineer Careers: Salary Expectations
Most network engineers earned, on average, between $52,000 and $84,000 annually. The average salary was about $66,000. These salaries can vary widely based on the industry. Network engineers working within enterprise management average around $71,000 per year, while those working for colleges and universities earn, on average, just over $57,000.
Network Engineer Careers: Job Outlook
Network engineering is among the fastest-growing occupations nationally, and employment figures are expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. As companies improve their IT capabilities and infrastructures, network engineers will become ever more important. Those with expertise in communications analysis will be particularly appealing to employers.
Slightly Off the Footpath
- IT Consultant
- Computer Programming
- Network Administrator
- Systems Administrator
Sources: bls.gov/oes/current/oes151071.htm; bls.gov/oco/ocos303.htm
