What is a Network Engineer?

How Can I Become a Network Engineer?

The complex field of network engineering requires preparation that starts with a college degree. On-the-job experience, training courses and certifications help hone your skills as you advance in seniority and responsibility, but a bachelor’s degree is the first step. Areas of study that teach you the technical knowledge and understanding that can qualify you to work in the industry include information technology, computer science, engineering, programming or a major that relates closely. Some companies may require you to have more than a bachelor’s degree for entry level network positions, and they may prefer applicants who hold a master’s in information systems. Experience in field work with network administration or IT systems may favorably impress potential employers.

What Skills Do Network Engineers Need?

Some of your characteristics may contribute to your potential for success as a network engineer. The job requires you to pay attention to the minutest detail in creating blueprints for a corporate network to make sure that its components work together. Patience and the ability to take the time that you need to develop a plan allow you to enjoy the job.

As a team leader, you need the ability to encourage others to like your plan and want to help you implement it. Analytical skills can help you detect flaws in a complex network system or an alternative design that improves it. Your organizational abilities give you an advantage in planning layouts, and they let you cohesively present your talents and skills.

What Can I Earn as a Network Engineer?

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for network engineers to increase at about the same rate as other occupations at about 6 percent. As businesses expand their communication capabilities, engineers can earn salaries that reflect the complexity of the job. At the low end of the pay scale, network engineers make less than $55,610 but more than $158,590 in the upper range. The average salary for an engineer makes $70,147.

What Are a Network Engineer’s Job Requirements and Responsibilities?

The extensive and wide-ranging duties of a network engineer require the ability to plan, design and test the components of a communication system’s infrastructure, including these among others:

• clustering solutions
• DHCP servers
• DNS servers
• firewalls
• gateways
• routers
• switches
• suitable

A network engineer has the responsibility to establish a productive communications environment by designing a plan, directing its installation, preparing documentation and enforcing compliance with system standards. Responsibilities extend to developing solutions to make an existing system work better by responding to the results of troubleshooting. The reliability of the network depends on the continuous monitoring of system performance of firewalls that protect a company’s security. The job requires frequent communication with users at all levels and a prompt response to reports of problems to ensure the uninterrupted flow of communications.

What is the Job Outlook for Network Engineers?

The future of jobs for network designers offers a positive outlook for applicants who have the appropriate qualifications. Statistics from BLS show that the job outlook for all computer jobs reflects an increase of 13 percent and 6 percent for network engineering positions in the years leading up to 2026. The demand for network security jobs comes from a range of employers:

• business
• emergency services
• government agencies
• hospitals
• industry
• retail
• schools and colleges
• transportation

The need for engineers who can upgrade existing networks or design and build new ones provides access to a challenging and financially rewarding career. A contributing factor to the growth of jobs in the industry is the expansion of healthcare information. The reliance of business, government and industry on connectivity points to a promising future for engineers. The service that Field Engineer offers to freelancers and job seekers provides convenient access to the employment market.

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