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Computer Network Architect

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What is a Computer Network Architect?

Job Description & Duties 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: What Do They Do?

  • Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
  • Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
  • Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.
  • Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.
  • Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
  • Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.

Skills Needed to be a Computer Network Architect

Below is a list of the skills most Computer Network Architects say are important on the job.

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.

  • Network Operations Analyst
  • Network Engineer
  • Telecommunications Analyst
  • IT Analyst (Information Technology Analyst)
  • Computer Network Engineer

Computer Network Architect Employment Estimates

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 162,700 jobs in the United States for Computer Network Architect. 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.

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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.

Computer Network Architect Salary

Computer Network Architects make between $60,310 and $164,280 a year.

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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 do Computer Network Architects Use?

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

Becoming a Computer Network Architect

Are there Computer Network Architects education requirements?

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Network Architect?

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Where do Computer Network Architects Work?

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The table below shows the approximate number of Computer Network Architects employed by various industries.

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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.

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