Life As a Computer Network Architect
Job Description: 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. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Life As a Computer Network Architect
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
- Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.
- Develop network-related documentation.
- Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.
- Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
Featured schools near , edit
What Every Computer Network Architect Should Know
Computer Network Architects state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Types of Computer Network Architect Jobs
- Network Developer
- Solutions Architect
- Network Systems Integrator
- Enterprise Architect
- Network Consultant
What Kind of Computer Network Architect Job Opportunities Are There?
There were about 162,700 jobs for Computer Network Architect in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 6.5% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 10,500 new jobs for Computer Network Architect by 2026. The BLS estimates 11,700 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Computer Network Architect are Utah, Tennessee, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in New Jersey, Ohio, or Alaska. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Average Computer Network Architects Salary
The salary for Computer Network Architects ranges between about $60,310 and $164,280 a year.
Computer Network Architects who work in Delaware, Maryland, or New Jersey, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer Network Architects make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $104,580 |
Alaska | $94,250 |
Arizona | $101,750 |
Arkansas | $89,840 |
California | $127,500 |
Colorado | $115,300 |
Connecticut | $122,200 |
Delaware | $126,990 |
District of Columbia | $123,200 |
Florida | $91,180 |
Georgia | $114,240 |
Hawaii | $98,880 |
Illinois | $114,780 |
Indiana | $88,210 |
Iowa | $119,590 |
Kansas | $93,670 |
Kentucky | $77,950 |
Louisiana | $79,560 |
Maine | $97,890 |
Maryland | $121,720 |
Massachusetts | $121,700 |
Michigan | $100,710 |
Minnesota | $110,330 |
Mississippi | $89,550 |
Missouri | $99,880 |
Montana | $88,520 |
Nebraska | $98,430 |
Nevada | $104,350 |
New Hampshire | $123,310 |
New Jersey | $124,310 |
New Mexico | $111,210 |
New York | $113,300 |
North Carolina | $108,040 |
North Dakota | $94,750 |
Ohio | $97,250 |
Oklahoma | $87,160 |
Oregon | $108,990 |
Pennsylvania | $101,090 |
Rhode Island | $117,650 |
South Carolina | $85,450 |
South Dakota | $100,330 |
Tennessee | $102,030 |
Texas | $119,340 |
Utah | $114,900 |
Vermont | $85,930 |
Virginia | $123,050 |
Washington | $111,960 |
West Virginia | $92,060 |
Wisconsin | $97,110 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Computer Network Architects
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Computer Network Architects may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Web browser software
- Python
- jQuery
- Microsoft Access
- Node.js
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- SAP
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft SharePoint
How to Become a Computer Network Architect
What education is needed to be a Computer Network Architect?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where do Computer Network Architects Work?
The table below shows the approximate number of Computer Network Architects employed by various industries.
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Computer Network Architect might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as a Computer Network Architect sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
Request Info | Southern New Hampshire University You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you get there. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you. Find your degree from over 200 online programs. Learn More > |