What is a Network Engineer Level Job?
A network engineer is a professional who designs, configures, maintains, and troubleshoots computer networks. A network engineer level job is a position that requires a high level of expertise in the field of network engineering. In this role, a person is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the computer network, which includes hardware, software, and security.
What do People Usually do in this Position?
In a network engineer level job, people are responsible for designing and implementing computer networks, managing network security, maintaining network hardware and software, and troubleshooting network issues. They work with a team of professionals to ensure that the network infrastructure is efficient and secure. They also provide technical support to end-users and work on projects to improve the network infrastructure.
Top 5 Skills for this Position
- Expertise in Networking Protocols and Technologies
- Knowledge of Network Security and Threat Mitigation Techniques
- Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
- Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to Work in a Team Environment
How to Become a Network Engineer?
To become a network engineer, an individual must have at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. They must also have experience working with computer networks, either through internships, entry-level positions, or other relevant experience. In addition, they may need to obtain industry certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+, or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to demonstrate their expertise in the field.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for network and computer systems administrators, which includes network engineers, was $83,510 as of May 2020. The top 10% earned more than $134,970, while the bottom 10% earned less than $52,460.
Roles and Types
Network engineers can work in a variety of roles and industries, including telecommunications, healthcare, finance, and government. Some common job titles for network engineers include network administrator, network architect, network security engineer, and wireless network engineer. They may also specialize in areas such as cloud computing, virtualization, or network design.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
According to a study by ZipRecruiter, the top five cities with the most network engineer job opportunities in the USA are San Francisco, CA; Washington, DC; New York, NY; Boston, MA; and Seattle, WA. These cities have a high demand for network engineers due to their large technology industries and the need for secure and efficient computer networks.
What are the Typical Tools?
Network engineers use a variety of tools to design, configure, and troubleshoot computer networks. Some common tools include network monitoring software, such as SolarWinds or Nagios, which allows engineers to monitor network performance and identify issues. They may also use network simulation tools, such as GNS3 or Packet Tracer, to test network configurations before deployment. Other tools include network analyzers, packet sniffers, and security scanners.
In Conclusion
Network engineer level jobs are an essential part of any organization that relies on computer networks for daily operations. These professionals must have a high level of expertise in networking protocols, security, and problem-solving. With the right education, experience, and industry certifications, one can become a successful network engineer and have a fulfilling career in this field.