Network Engineer
Job Description:Network engineers build and fix computer networks
Job Category:What you will do:
Network engineers design computer networks that support the structure and network necessities of an organisation.
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- designing and implementing physical and wireless networks
- managing the electronic equipment that activates network pieces
- researching and integrating new technologies into the network lifecycle
- working with network administrators to manage or assist problems
- installing and configuring new software and hardware
- setting up user accounts, permissions and passwords to allow access to the network
- making sure security is at the right level to block unauthorised access
- finding and fixing network faults
- setting up a maintenance plan to prevent faults
- giving technical support to people who use the network
- providing training on new systems
- planning and implementing future developments
These tasks may be included as part of a broader IT support or helpdesk role.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
As well as:
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptable)
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
Entry Requirements:
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- network engineering
- computer science
- electronic engineering
- network security
- software engineering
Related subjects like physics, maths or electrical engineering can also be useful.
College
You could do a college course to get a job as a network technician. You could then train more to qualify as an engineer.
Some of the courses you could take include (in the UK you’d need a Level 4 Certificate or Diploma)
- Certificate in Networking and Architecture
- Certificate in Network Services
- Diploma in Network Security
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a:
- network cable installer advanced apprenticeship
- network engineer higher apprenticeship
- digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship
Work
You could start as a network technician and train with a recognised industry, such as Cisco Certified or CompTIA Network+.
Career tips
You may find it useful to get experience in related areas like IT support or computer repair.
Working Hours and Environment:
With experience you could progress to network management jobs or you could move into other areas of IT like project management, information security or consultancy.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience you could progress to network management jobs or you could move into other areas of IT like project management, information security or consultancy