Life As a Computer Network Architect
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.
What Do Computer Network Architects Do On a Daily Basis?
- Coordinate installation of new equipment.
- Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.
- Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
- Develop network-related documentation.
- Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
Skills Needed to be a Computer Network Architect
These are the skills Computer Network Architects say are the most useful in their careers:
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.
Related Job Titles
- Server Engineer
- Networking Systems and Distributed Systems Engineer
- Network Systems Analyst
- Network Systems Consultant
- Network Specialist
Computer Network Architect Employment Estimates
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. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 11,700 job openings in this field each year.
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.
Salary for a Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects make between $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 |
What Tools & Technology do Computer Network Architects Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer Network Architects:
- 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
Becoming a Computer Network Architect
What kind of Computer Network Architect requirements are there?
What work experience do I need to become a Computer Network Architect?
Who Employs Computer Network Architects?
Computer Network Architects work in the following industries:
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References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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