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Career Track: Network Engineer
Article:
Network Engineer's Job Description :
A Network Engineer is responsible for designing and managing the
LAN and WAN networks within an organization. He/she is
responsible for choosing the hardware and software the
organization uses as well as the introduction of new systems and
equipment. The Network Engineer is also in charge of making sure
that updates and maintenance are performed on the current
systems.
A major role would include the analysis, redesign and upkeep of
the network to keep up with the changing needs of the
organization. Skill sets required are predominantly the same as
for Network Administrators but at a much higher skill level. At
this level, the IT professional also needs to fine tune
interpersonal and communication skills as well. Responsibilities
may include:
* Implementation and possible design of converged networks
* Implementation and possible design of local and remote systems
* Development and monitoring of network dial-up or VPN
Connection
* Analyzing corporate network applications and client-server
environments
The role of the Network Engineer continues to expand. Wireless
technology and private networking have forced network engineers
to become extremely flexible in their roles and
responsibilities. As the speed and efficiency of networks
continues to impact a company's bottom line, the
responsibilities of this role continue to become more vital to
organizations across the globe. Network engineering
responsibilities may cross over into those of a Network
Administrator and in some positions, a Network Architect.
Similar Positions or Titles:
Senior Systems Administrator, Network Analyst, WAN
Administrator, Infrastructure Engineer, Network Architect and
Network Designer
Opportunities for advancement :
Individuals with strong communication and soft skills usually
move from Network Engineer into management positions.
Educational Requirements :
As more companies turn to Cisco technologies for their
networking needs, training and certification in this arena is
vital to the success of Network Engineers. Microsoft and Novell
continue to be prevalent in the marketplace as well so
candidates cannot ignore these systems either. In addition to at
least 5 years of experience, potential Network Engineers also
need to hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical
engineering or a related field. Those interested in pursuing a
career as a Network Engineer need a strong background in Cisco,
Windows and Novell. A strong background in security will
increase potential opportunities. Layered communication
protocols and routing, bridging/switching, and flow control are
also areas that will require some knowledge.
Potential Salary : (As reported by the U.S. Dept. of
Labor) Average salaries (nationwide):
Entry (less than 1 year of experience):
Engineer $44,999
Architect $43,077
Junior (1-2 years of experience):
Engineer $50,282
Architect $55,961
Emerging (3-5 years of experience):
Engineer $59,803
Architect $67,187
Experienced (6-9 years of experience):
Engineer $68,845
Architect $78,787
Advanced (10+ years of experience):
Engineer $75,584
Architect $87,384
Industry Certifications :
There are many types of certifications that will help bolster
the career of a Network Engineer.
These include:
* A+ 2003
* CCDA
* CCIE
* CISSP
* Linux+
* LPIC2 Linux Junior Level
* LCPI2 Linux Intermediate Level
* Master CIW Administrator
* Master CIW i-Accelerate
* MCNE
* MCSA 2000
* MCSA 2003
* MCSE 2000
* MCSE 2003
* NetWare 5 CNE
* NetWare 6 CNE
* Network+
* RHCE
* RHCT SCE
* SCM
* SCP
* Security+
* Server+
* Solaris 8 SCNA
* Solaris 9 SCNA
* Solaris 9 Security
* TICSA
About the author:
Exforsys is a community of developers specializing in C, C++,
C#, Java, J2EE, .NET, PeopleSoft, SAP, Siebel, Oracle Apps.,
Data warehousing, Oracle/SQL Server/DB2 and Testing. Please
visit http://www.exforsys.com
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