Network Systems Engineer Job Description
The rise of computing as an essential component of business and administrative operations has led to new jobs and career fields. Network systems engineers, for example, serve corporations and other institutions, usually as a member of an information technology department, by maintaining and running a computer system. System engineers often blend technical and interpersonal skills in order to perform their duties most successfully.
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Duties
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Specific duties of network engineers vary widely between industries and organizations. However, typical responsibilities include technical components such as installing, supporting and maintaining servers or other computer systems. Project management, some programming and responding to outages often find a place in the job description, too. In addition, working with people in such capacities as supervising and training computer operators or consulting with technical support staff plays a role in many network systems engineer positions.
Skills
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Computer systems administrators such as network engineers use a variety of skills. They think critically and apply problem-solving ability, using reasoning to troubleshoot and identify appropriate solutions. They also excel at technological design, creating and applying technology to meet practical needs. Ability to analyze and evaluate systems, determining how they work and how to improve them, constitutes a major skill set needed by administrators. Of course, depending on the organization, network administrators must master various kinds of computer software and hardware. They also need to listen carefully to others and make choices between potential courses of action.
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Education and Qualifications
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Many employers require a bachelor's degree, sometimes with a major in computer science, information science and management information systems, for network and computer systems administrators. In some cases, an associate degree coupled with related work experience may prove sufficient. Professional associations such as the IEEE offer a range of learning opportunities for technical professionals.
Possibilities
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Most network engineers move into the role after first gaining experience as a computer support specialist. Also, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates can enhance employment opportunities by earning certifications. These can be pursued through various training institutions or product vendors such as Microsoft.
Wages
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According to the Occupational Information Network, computer systems engineers earned an average of $37.02 hourly or $77,010 annually in 2009. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects much faster than average employment growth, resulting in excellent prospects for those seeking careers in this field.
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References
Resources
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