In a typical day, I will receive a ticket for new work that needs to be completed in a set of routers, switches, or servers. Once I receive this ticket I begin analyzing the documents provided and cross-referencing it with what currently exists on our equipment. Once I verify the information provided, I begin pulling the necessary changes in order to explain how to complete them. After this is complete I simulate my work and forward to the necessary implementation teams.
CAREER
Computer Network Architects
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$120,520
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+4.3% (slower than the average)
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Computer Network Architects Do
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Other Job Titles Computer Network Architects May Have
Network Analyst, Network and Security Engineer, Network Consultant, Solutions Architect
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
Engineer ,
I create or verify documentation and identify Resources and Processes needed. I review details and contact Customers to address Project Expectations, Implementation plan and timeline, and Questions. I collaborate with others on required Supplies/Equipment, Work requirements, and Questions and Concerns. I order Supplies Equipment, register Technical Details, and Request Resource Assignments.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
- Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
- Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.
- Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Computer Network Architects
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Master's degree (36%)
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Post-baccalaureate certificate
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Engineer ,
Suggested Path
Bachelor
Business Management
Bachelor
Computer Systems
Vocational
Engineering/Indust...
Vocational
Industrial Electronics Technology
Certification / License
CCNP
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
The most important skill outside of school you need for this job is the ability to communicate information to others effectively over different mediums (email, phone, in-person, etc.) and to be able to manage expectations for timelines and due dates. Any other technical knowledge you will learn on the job, but people skills is one of the most necessary for working in any team environment.
Engineer ,
People skills are critical together with a positive Attitude. Ability to effectively communicate with others who are more and also less Technical. Listening skills are important to hear and understand Details and the overall Picture. Patience and Compassion to deal with unhappy Customers. Spatial Concepts and Ability to visualize a Scenario even if Virtual. Experience in just interacting with people from diverse backgrounds in a positive manner, technical and non-technical.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
Middle School Students
Engineer ,
Talk to Professionals in your area, Job Shadow and ask Questions about Technical Entry programs. Talk to Advisors (School and College) to help find programs. Find like-minded Students and YouTube videos. Learn terms/concepts and find out what interests you. Prepare for a Technical College program, a Certification program and Internships for early Experience. If you enjoy it, pursue an Entry job and then get the College degrees.
High School Students
College Students
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
