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Computer Network Architects
SOC: 15-1241 • Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
What They Do
Computer Network Architects typically perform the following tasks:
• Develop disaster recovery plans.
• Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
• Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
• Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
• Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
• Coordinate installation of new equipment.
• Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
• Develop network-related documentation.
• Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.
• Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.
• Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.
• Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.
• Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
• Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
• Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.
• Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
• Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.
• Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.
• Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
• Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.
Career Video
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Key facts
Median: $130,390
Employment: 179,200
Growth (2024–2034):
+12.0%
Education:
Bachelor's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Intelligence Metrics
Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
7.0/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
7.4
Realistic
9.2
Investigative
4.6
Artistic
5.4
Social
5.6
Enterprising
6.8
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Top Skills
Analytical skills
Detail oriented
Interpersonal skills
Leadership skills
Organizational skills
Problem-solving skills
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 19,800
- Texas 16,160
- Colorado 12,720
- Virginia 9,340
- New York 9,180
- Florida 8,690
- North Carolina 7,440
- Illinois 6,450
- New Jersey 6,440
- Georgia 5,980
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)
Regional Wage Variations
-
California +6%$138,350
-
Texas -1%$129,110
-
Colorado 3%$134,680
-
Virginia +14%$148,080
-
New York 4%$136,230
-
Florida 0%$130,320
-
North Carolina -3%$126,000
-
Illinois 1%$132,310
-
New Jersey +13%$147,650
-
Georgia 1%$132,300
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High
Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High
Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium
Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium
Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High
Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Management of companies and enterprises
85%
Computer systems design and related services
70%
Temporary help services
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South