Network Engineer
A Network Engineer designs, implements, and troubleshoots computer networks such as intranets, extranets, and large LAN and WAN. They ensure network security and connectivity.
Top Articles for Network Engineer
Sample Job Descriptions for Network Engineer
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A Junior Network Engineer is responsible for assisting in the installation, maintenance, and support of networking systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure the stability and integrity of network infrastructure.
Required Skills
- Network troubleshooting
- Basic knowledge of network topologies and architectures
- Understanding of networking hardware such as routers, switches, and firewalls
- Basic knowledge of network security practices
- Time management and prioritization
- Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field
- Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, etc.)
- Familiarity with network diagnostic, monitoring and analysis tools
- Some hands-on experience with networking equipment in a lab or internship environment
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work well in a team as well as independently
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal
Responsibilities
- Assist in designing and implementing new network solutions and/or improving the efficiency of current networks
- Install, configure, and support network equipment including routers, switches, firewalls, and other related network devices
- Monitor network performance and troubleshoot problem areas as needed
- Ensure network security and connectivity are maintained at all times
- Conduct regular network analysis, prepare reports of network status, and keep documentation up-to-date
- Collaborate with senior network engineers on larger projects
- Provide technical support to colleagues and assist with IT-related issues
- Participate in training and educational opportunities to keep skills current and learn about new technologies
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Network Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the company's computer networks. You will be a critical component in ensuring that the network infrastructure is running efficiently and securely to support organizational communication and data management needs.
Required Skills
- Analytical skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Organizational and mentoring skills
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field
- Proven experience as a Network Engineer
- Solid background in network administration and architecture
- In-depth understanding of communication protocols (mainly TCP/IP) and routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF)
- Familiarity with access control models and network security
- Knowledge of coding languages for scripting (e.g., Python, Perl)
- Experience with network diagnostic, monitoring and analysis tools (e.g., SolarWinds network tools)
Responsibilities
- Design and deploy functional networks (LAN, WLAN, WAN)
- Configure and install software, servers, routers and other network devices
- Monitor network performance and integrity
- Resolve issues tiers of support have escalated by troubleshooting cloud and local infrastructure
- Automate tasks and monitor their effectiveness
- Mentor team members on technical issues
- Create, oversee and test security measures (e.g., access authentication and disaster recovery)
- Communicate with users when needed
- Maintain complete technical documentation
- Suggest improvements to network performance, capacity and scalability
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Network Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining secure and efficient networks that support organizational goals. You will lead a team of engineers, manage complex projects, and provide expert guidance on network infrastructure.
Required Skills
- Hands-on experience with network infrastructure and hardware
- Ability to implement, administer, and troubleshoot network devices including firewalls, routers, switches, controllers
- Knowledge of application transport and network infrastructure protocols
- Ability to create accurate network diagrams and documentation for design and planning network communication systems
- Provides specific detailed information for hardware and software selection
- Good analytical and problem-solving skills
- Dependable and flexible when necessary
- Network security experience
- LAN and WAN experience
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field
- Proven experience as a Network Engineer or similar role with a track record of successful network design and implementation
- Professional certification (e.g. CCNP, CCDP)
- In-depth understanding of communication protocols (mainly TCP/IP) and routing protocols (e.g. BGP, OSPF)
- Familiarity with access control models and network security
- Experience with network diagnostic, monitoring and analysis tools (e.g. SolarWinds network tools)
- Solid understanding of network operating systems (JUNOS, Cisco IOS)
- Sharp troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently
- Organizational and mentoring skills
Responsibilities
- Design and deploy functional networks (LAN, WLAN, WAN)
- Configure and install software, servers, routers and other network devices
- Monitor network performance and integrity
- Resolve issues tiers of support have escalated by troubleshooting cloud and local infrastructure
- Automate tasks and monitor their effectiveness
- Mentor team members on technical issues
- Create, oversee and test security measures (e.g. access authentication and disaster recovery)
- Communicate with users when needed
- Maintain complete technical documentation
- Suggest improvements to network performance, capacity and scalability
See other roles in Science and Technology and Technology