Computer network architects design, construct and install data communication networks, such as Intranets, local area networks (LANs) and wide-area networks (WANs). Their role also entails understanding the business model and objective of the company they work for to ensure that the network can facilitate the organisation’s mission.
40hweek
Full Time
Standard business hours
A computer network architect will typically maintain a 40-hour workweek completed during regular business hours. That said, you may also be required to work some evenings or weekends, such as when systems go down.
For the most part, you will be working in an office, but you will also spend portion of your day in server rooms to work with the hardware.
$60k
$110k
$160k
Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.
Undergraduate
DVM / VMD degree
4years
To become a computer network architect, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering.
Some employers prefer candidates who possess a master’s degree or a PhD.
However, you can sometimes bypass this requirement by attaining the necessary certifications and credentials, such as the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA), Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) or Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) certification, which all ultimately lead to the Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) accreditation.
You can also think about applying for Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA), Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA) or the Open Group TOGAF 9 certifications.
6%
10.5k
21%
You’ll typically begin your career in administration – computer, computer systems, network and database – and you’ll usually need a minimum of 5 to 10 years experience working in these fields in order to be considered for a computer network architect position.
With experience, you can become a computer and information systems manager.