Network Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, monitoring and managing the local and wide area networks of an organisation to ensure maximum uptime for users.The role can include designing system configurations, documenting and managing the installation of a new network, and maintaining and upgrading existing systems as necessary.
Network Engineer duties and responsibilities of the job
Network Engineers will work in-house or be assigned to project management teams working with outside clients. As part of an organisation’s IT team, Network Engineers work with Infrastructure Architects and IT Managers. A Network Engineer job description can therefore comprise of:Designing and implementing new network solutions and/or improving the efficiency of current networksInstalling, configuring and supporting network equipment including routers, proxy servers, switches, WAN accelerators, DNS and DHCPProcuring network equipment and managing subcontractors involved with network installationConfiguring firewalls, routing and switching to maximise network efficiency and securityMaximising network performance through ongoing monitoring and troubleshootingArranging scheduled upgradesInvestigating faults in the networkUpdating network equipment to the latest firmware releasesReporting network status to key stakeholders
Network Engineer job qualifications and requirements
Holding a degree and having a technical background will be required to gain a Network Engineer role. Degrees in the following subjects can be included:Computer scienceComputer software/computer systems engineeringComputer systems and networksElectrical/electronic engineeringMathematicsNetwork security managementPhysicsOrganisations may also have specific requirements depending on their current network configuration. As a guide, a CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certification is desirable.As well as formal qualifications, a Network Engineer job description should include the following qualities:An analytical mindAn ability to learn new technologies quicklyGood time management skillsAn ability to follow processesStrong documentation skillsGood communication skills – both written and verbalCommercial and business awareness
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