A network engineer is a technology professional who has the necessary skills to plan, implement and oversee the computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video and wireless network services. Network engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing business connectivity via various networks. These include wired and wireless networks for on-premises business connectivity and cloud-based networks for secure remote work.
Are you ready to take the first steps into your new career as a network engineer? Upload your CV to the Robert Half website and start browsing open vacancies today. For more information on the technology hiring landscape, download the Robert Half Salary Guide or explore the demand for tech talent with our free report.
Data Center Networking Specialist
Compensation packages at the entry-level start at around £19,000 to £21,000 yearly. When you have a few years of experience, your earnings increase to £35,000 annually. Learn essential skills to build a career in network engineering by enrolling in top-rated programs from leading universities and companies. The CCNA covers a broad range of fundamentals based on the latest networking technologies, software development skills and job roles. “Most people would organically move into network engineering from an IT support role,” says James Wilson, Practice Director for Robert Half.
Network engineering positions typically include benefits like 401(k) matches, paid time off, health insurance, and disability insurance. They’re responsible for designing, setting up, and managing computer networks within a company. One of their most important responsibilities is getting a network back online and working properly after there’s been an outage.
I Have No Experience, What Is The Best Way to Get a Job as a Network Engineer?
New technologies and systems emerge frequently in this field, so learning about the latest programs can help you be successful in this field. Whilst it’s not always necessary that you know how to code to work as a network engineer, learning a programming language or two can increase your skill set and help you pick up new technologies. That also means we’ll see Network Engineering jobs becoming much more competitive over the next several years. You can boost your earning potential by completing a CCNP certification and by gaining experience in an enterprise LAN/WAN environment.
- One of their most important responsibilities is getting a network back online and working properly after there’s been an outage.
- A number of universities and other institutions offer network engineer training courses and programs.
- They analyze network performance, test network functionality, and more.
- You could be joining a leading quantitative trading firm, progressing your career and earning significant bonuses.
- Salary data from the salary data report from the 2022 median annual salary report for a network engineer was more than $91,000 per year.
The majority of network engineers work in technology companies or information technology consultancies. And as you progress through the steps to become a network engineer that are detailed below, you will very likely find one of these specialized fields more interesting and professionally satisfying. Some network engineering specialties include cloud network architect, network security specialist, and wireless network engineer.
Career path and progression
To pass the CCNA I would highly recommend starting with one of the great books on the CCNA. Learn how some real-life Network Engineers met their career goals, and hear how getting certified helped them on their path to success. Network Engineers observe and troubleshoot their systems to keep them running smoothly. They analyze network performance, test network functionality, and more.
They should also understand the basic elements of networks, such as clients, servers, internet routing, IP addresses and network hubs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects Network and Computer Systems Administrator positions to grow by 5% through 2030, with almost 25,000 openings projected each year. This increase in jobs is due to the use of IT in different fields like healthcare, a need for faster technology, and more advanced mobile networks across all industries. Many organizations have switched to VOIP because it’s easier to maintain than traditional landlines and more adaptable. A VOIP Engineer specializes in designing, installing, maintaining, and improving VOIP networks. Engineers should communicate with network customers and resolve current system issues.
Aside from installing and implementing network systems, you monitor the existing networks. You assess any network problems and devise a solution to improve connectivity. That involves evaluating performance and diagnosing and repairing network issues. You also evaluate performance and conduct regular maintenance checks.
- Engineers need to comprehend and focus on the wiring and hardware requirements for the premises of their organizations or clients.
- It helps you to connect with employers who are seeking qualified candidates.
- Having these skills may help you think critically and develop comprehensive solutions for the role.
- There is no greater way to prove to a hiring manager that you have the skills on your resume than by backing them up with certifications.
If they gain expertise, there are any number of opportunities for them, as they are crucial players in most large organizations. IT pros skilled in the areas of networking how to become a windows network engineer are always in demand in trending marketplaces. They need to have one of the following specialized networking certifications to stand out in the competition.