Is Network Engineering a Good Career? (11 Things To Consider)

Network engineering is undoubtedly a career worth considering, given that network engineers have more opportunities than many others. Network engineers may perform various tasks, including servicing switches, firewalls, routers, security intrusion detection systems, and primary network and server upkeep.

A profession in network engineering may be a perfect match for you if you’re looking for high compensation, a promising job outlook, and quality of work life. Here are some things to consider in this profession!

Is Network Engineering a Good Career? 

Network engineers can expect their careers to be in constant demand and with excellent pay. The network engineering field is growing rapidly, and lucrative compensation improves annually. There are numerous career paths and additional benefits of working in the industry. Additionally, you will get the opportunity to provide innovative solutions to problems. 

As a network and computer systems administrator, you’ll create and maintain the infrastructure that keeps your company’s systems running smoothly. In most cases, individuals must have a degree in computer science or an IT-related field.

Are you interested in the field of network engineering? Here are the 11 things you must know before considering this career!

1. Technical Professionals

A network engineer is a technical expert in developing, setting into place, and sustaining computer networks. The wireless network operations, internal communication, and data are made available by these networked computers.

Network engineers collaborate closely with other essential IT professionals, such as network administrators, to build, construct, and maintain networks for peak effectiveness.

And suppose you land an engineering career in this growing industry. In that case, you’ll manage the structure of your company’s IT network infrastructure.

Network engineers must also be excellent communicators because a substantial portion of their jobs involves troubleshooting for digital rookies.

2. Soaring Demand

Currently, network engineering positions are in high demand among many IT-related occupations. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the job growth of network engineers will increase by 3% annually, adding almost 24000 new jobs each year. 

Similarly, Computer and Information Systems Managers’ jobs are forecast to grow 16% annually over this decade, with 48,500 new jobs added yearly.

Network engineers play a vital role in supporting organizations, including:

  • Upkeep of computer networks
  • Architecture for Computer Networks
  • Managing the Implementation
  • Staying up-to-date

As you can see, remuneration, job prospects, and opportunities are outstanding because of the great demand from these individuals.

Overall, being a network engineer can be a productive and compelling career choice.

3. Lucrative Compensation and Benefits

Network engineers receive competitive salaries that are constantly increasing.

In the United States, on average, they earn $91,250 annually, with top earners making over $130,000. 

Similarly, Computer and Information Systems Managers’ average annual salary is $162,930, with top earners making over $198,000 yearly. 

As a network engineer, an individual would be compensated based on several factors, which include:

  • Employer
  • The location
  • Degree of education
  • Level of Expertise

Still, the average wage for network engineer employment is very high despite these elements.

Additionally, the majority of employers will offer comprehensive benefits packages, incorporating the following:

  • Paid Holidays
  • Sponsored Career Advancement Training
  • Opportunities for Promotion

4. Requires an IT Background

Basically, the finest network engineers are all problem-solvers who won’t give up until they’ve discovered a solution.

A background in information technology is an excellent place to start. 

Still, you will also need to further your education by participating in certifications, working on projects outside the workplace, and staying current with emerging technology developments.

Additionally, a network engineer must be passionate and knowledgeable about programming languages. 

Without an understanding of virtual applications and analytical procedures, a network engineer won’t be able to create, administer, and manage computer networks.

5. Degree and Credentials

To qualify for network engineer roles, you can obtain your bachelor’s degree in network engineering, information systems, IT, or computer programming.

You can obtain essential on-the-job experience to progress within your company or more senior-level opportunities.

You should also regularly pursue education and acquire various data technology certifications since network technology changes rapidly. 

Additionally, the following list of certificates will assist you in improving your abilities and advancing your professional life:

  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  • Juniper Networks Certified Associate
  • SolarWinds Certified Professional
  • Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA) 

6. Technical Skills

Technical Skills

Network engineers’ technical competencies include managing system firewalls and configuring routers, which commonly connect to computer science and data technology uses.

As well as administering IT security networks, good problem-solving skills and innovative thinking help to solve workplace issues.

Lastly, prove to your employer that you are familiar with a wide range of technology tools you will need to use to complete projects and tasks effectively, such as:

  • Ping
  • Netstat
  • IP Scanner
  • Ipconfig 

With outstanding technical abilities, network engineers can complete their projected responsibilities.

7. Independent Consultants

When beginning a career in this industry, you can work as an entry-level network engineer, serving customers with the design, building, installation, and maintenance of networks and intelligent systems.

During their work, professionals spot malfunctioning hardware. Therefore, you must be knowledgeable about networks, gateways, switches, wireless routers, and processors.

At the same time, others begin their projects as independent consultants on well-known platforms like Upwork, People Per Hour, Freelancer, and Guru.

Others start their careers as Network Technicians, a role that can be attained through certification.

8. Innovative Career Outlook

As noted, network engineers and information system managers expect job growth of roughly 3% and 16%.

For some professionals, they can advance to the following roles with knowledge and experience as:

  • Senior Network Manager
  • Network Analyst
  • Network Administrator $91,250 on average annually. 
  • Network Solutions Architect $120,650 on average annually

Additionally, a network engineer can also specialize in four areas of involving:

  • Cloud 
  • LAN 
  • Security Measures
  • VOIP 

Because of rapid change in the technology industry, network engineers are encouraged to remain updated on projected developments such as:

  • Knowledge of virtual machines and cloud deployments
  • Develop Python and SQL skills
  • Keep up with cybersecurity threats

9. Work Over Life

Network engineers love taking extended vacations to unwind from stressful work environments because of the profession’s financial perks.

Additional lifestyle advantages of a career in network engineering usually include the following:

  • Remote working environment (work from anywhere)
  • Creating original solutions to global issues
  • Exposure to cutting-edge and technological breakthroughs

As you can see, the job of a network engineer is identical to other occupations, but it takes more concentration.

Therefore, many IT professionals struggle to manage their personal and work lifestyles effectively. Moreover, work frequently takes priority over everything else because of the need to sustain a stellar career.

10. Recreational Activities

Generally, network engineers work a standard 5-day workweek.

In most cases, serious technical problems may require them to be readily available after hours, on weekends, or on nights.

However, these professionals frequently spend their free time playing games. Others think it’s a fun, soothing activity to engage in at the end of the day.

Network engineers engage in video games for entertainment and to sharpen their analytical and creative capacities.

Additionally, companies provide outdoor and indoor fitness zones, game rooms, relaxation rooms, lunch spaces, and cafes. 

11. Technological Changes

A network engineer’s worst nightmare is poor network performance. To maintain systems functioning 24/7/365, they must ensure consistency.

In some cases, numerous network changes occur daily, and new services and updates are launched. This mainly represents difficulties for the network engineer working on the platform. 

In addition, keeping up with frequent technological advancements is required for a network engineer, and it becomes increasingly difficult to rapidly exert control over them.

To learn more, you can also see our posts on Web Development, Cybersecurity, and Blockchain Developer.

Conclusion

Network engineers have numerous career opportunities to explore throughout their life. It is a job that offers a high degree of diversity and a change of scenery at times. 

As society continues reorganizing itself into a tech-driven world, the demand for network engineers will remain strong. 

Overall, it is an excellent opportunity for those willing to step in and embrace its challenges.