← Back to search

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

Video from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor

Key facts

Median: $130,390
Employment: 179,200
Growth (2024–2034): +12.0%
Education: Bachelor's degree

Career Intelligence Metrics

Automation Risk Assessment

Low Risk
11.0% probability of being automated in the next 10-20 years. This job is relatively safe from automation due to its creative, social, or complex problem-solving requirements.

Work-Life Balance Score

7.0/10
Good work-life balance based on typical work schedules, stress levels, and time demands.

Personality 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.

O*NET Official Logo Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor

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 2024-05
View Interactive BLS Maps

States 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