What You Should Know About Network Engineers
A network engineer manages networks and makes sure they run smoothly. He or she ensures that the networks are secure and performs network audits to determine if changes need to be made to the network.
A network engineer can expect to spend most of his or her time performing routine tasks such as installing hardware, configuring software, maintaining servers, and ensuring that all computers are running properly. In addition, he or she might be responsible for testing and repairing computer systems. A network engineer may also have to troubleshoot problems with routers and switches.
The median annual salary for a network engineer was $66,000 in May 2012. The employment of network engineers is projected to grow by about 12 percent between 2012 and 2022, which is much faster than the average job growth rate.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the employment of network engineers will grow by 19 percent through 2022. However, this figure does not include self-employed individuals who work as consultants.
Network engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in information technology or telecommunications. They usually hold an associate’s degree in computer networking or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in computer science or information technology.
Key Responsibilities of a Network Engineer include but are not limited to:
- Design, implement, test, deploy, operate, maintain, administer, and troubleshoot various types of network equipment and systems.
- Perform network audits to evaluate existing network infrastructures.
- Provide expert advice and guidance to help customers solve problems with their network.
- Maintain documentation and records of work performed.
- Assist in the training of new employees.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
- Participate in internal and external customer satisfaction surveys.
- Support the day-to-day needs of the organization by providing technical expertise and assistance.
Education & Experience Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Engineering (preferred) or Computer Science (preferred).
- At least 3+ years of experience working in an Information Technology environment.
- Strong knowledge of TCP/IP protocols, operating system fundamentals, LAN/WAN networking principles, and network security practices.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in written form.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledgeable about current technologies and trends.
- Ability and willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.
- Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screening and background investigation.
- Valid driver’s license required.
- High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Clearance Level I through III; must have access to classified information.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
- Ability to meet physical requirements, including standing, walking, sitting, lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying, and repetitive motion.
- Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 75 pounds.
About the on-demand marketplace – FieldEngineer (FE):
FieldEngineers provide remote service to our customers. We offer flexible hours, competitive pay rates, and a fun work atmosphere.
We’re always looking for talented people who love what they do!
Become a Part of Our Freelance Network Engineering Team
Network engineering continues to be one of the most popular technology fields in today‘s job market. Within network engineering, there are many different positions available, which provide plenty of opportunities for growth, transition, and increasing challenges.
Our Network Engineering team has the following responsibilities.
Network Engineer – Infrastructure
The Network Engineer – Infrastructure position provides support for all aspects of network infrastructure including design, implementation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, monitoring, and management of network services and devices.
Network Engineer – Security
The Network Engineer – Security position provides support for all areas of security including design, implementation, operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and management of network security systems and devices.
Network Engineer – Data Center
The Network Engineer-Data Center position provides support for all facets of data center operations including design, implementation, installation, configuration, testing, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network components and systems.
Network Engineer – Voice/Video
The Network Engineer–Voice/Video position provides support for all phases of voice and video networking including design, implementation, integration, testing, deployment, and operation of voice and video networks.
Network Engineer – Wireless
The Network Engineer – Wireless position provides support for all wireless-related activities including design, implementation, testing, deployment, operation, maintenance, administration, and troubleshooting of wireless technologies.
Network Engineer – Software
The Network Engineer–Software position provides support for all software development activities including the design, implementation, and testing of software applications.
Network Engineer – Operations
The Network Engineer–Operations position provides support for all technical and non-technical aspects of network operations including design, implementation, and maintenance of network services and devices as well as network operations planning and analysis.
Network Engineer – Management
The Network Engineer—Management position provides support for all management functions including design, implementation, maintenance, troubleshooting of network services and devices, network operations planning and analysis, and network budgeting and reporting.
Network Engineer – Consulting
The Network Engineer —Consulting position provides consulting services to clients within the telecommunications industry.
Network Engineer – Systems Administrator
The Network Systems Administrator position provides support for all IT systems including the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer hardware and software systems.
If you think you’d like to join our network engineering team, you can sign up as an Engineer at Fieldengineer.com – and start your freelancing career!!
