Network Architect

Job Description:

IT systems & Network Architects help plan, design and build IT systems for clients.

Job Category:

IT Industry

What you will do:

You’ll work closely with project managers, software developers and designers to build IT systems. These could be for things like designing the structure of a new health patient record system, or integrating several client websites into one.

Your main duties will be to make sure that each part of the overall IT system:

works together with the other parts as planned
satisfies the requirements of the client
meets the needs of users

Your day-to-day duties might include:

finding out the client’s needs
breaking down large system requirements into manageable parts
researching ‘off-the-shelf’ products to see whether they’ll be more suitable than building a new system
presenting plans to clients and agreeing how to carry them out
explaining the structure to designers and developers, and helping them build it
developing and carrying out tests to make sure everything works properly
making sure systems meet quality and security standards
keeping accurate records of steps and decisions taken
keeping project managers informed of progress
advising senior managers about how to plan their future IT needs

You might specialise in part of a system’s framework, like security. Or you might be responsible for the entire process, supervising the development team until the project’s completed.

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
maths knowledge
to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

As well as:

programming skills
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
excellent verbal communication skills
operations analysis skills
persistence and determination
to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
analytical thinking skills
problem-solving skills
planning and negotiation skills
the ability to explain ideas clearly
the ability to work effectively under pressure and to deadlines
leadership skills
ability to work in a team (teamwork skills)

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a Network Architect, you’ll typically need a strong educational foundation in computer science and networking. While there are no specific GCSE (or equivalent) subject requirements for this career, excelling in certain subjects and developing relevant skills during your education can be highly beneficial. Here are the subjects and skills to consider:

Mathematics: Mathematics is fundamental to computer science and networking. Strong math skills will help you understand complex algorithms and calculations involved in network architecture.
Sciences: While not a strict requirement, Computer Science and Physics can be advantageous. Computer Science will introduce you to fundamental programming concepts, and Physics can help you understand some of the physical principles behind network technologies.
Information Technology (IT): GCSEs in IT or related subjects can provide you with a basic understanding of computer systems, software, and networking fundamentals.
English: Good written and verbal communication skills are essential for documenting network designs, explaining technical concepts to colleagues, and collaborating with clients.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
applying directly

University
You’ll normally need a degree or postgraduate qualification. Relevant subjects include:

computer science or computer engineering
information management systems
business information systems
software development
mathematics

Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through a degree apprenticeship, training as a digital and technology solutions professional.

You could then move on to a digital and technology solution specialist degree apprenticeship. This is equal to a postgraduate degree.

Work
You could start with a company in a job like programming and work your way up through training and promotion.

Direct Application
You could apply to companies directly if you’ve got relevant skills and knowledge.

You’ll need a broad understanding of available technologies and what they can do for the client. Employers will look for a background in systems development, analysis, programming or testing.

Employers will also want to see strengths in non-technical areas like client management, communication and leadership. This is because they place importance on the ability to communicate the client’s requirements to technical teams and to manage resources and demands on time.

Working Hours and Environment:

You’ll usually work 37 to 40 hours a week. You may need to work some evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.

You’ll mainly office-based. You may sometimes travel to meet clients which could include overnight stays away from home.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could progress to senior architect, or specialise in a particular field, like finance or security.

You could also move into broader IT project management roles, strategy planning or consultancy.