Network Engineer vs Network Administrator

Network Engineer

Roles and Responsibilities

The first part of a network engineer role must do is understand, at a macro level, the structure and network necessities of the entire organization. Armed with this knowledge, the network engineer must then design and maintain any network that supports the company lifecycle and growth opportunities. A network engineer may need to analyze what’s working and what isn’t to find room for improvement – all while working within a preset budget.

Common roles and responsibilities of a network engineer include:

• Designing and implementing both the physical and wireless networks, including those for computer communications and telecommunications
• Maintaining network performance
• Managing the electronic equipment that activates any network pieces
• Troubleshooting network problems
• Researching and integrating new technologies into the network lifecycle
• Interfacing with network administrators to manage or assist problems

Peers and Reporting

A network engineer frequently reports directly to a CTO or CIO. Depending on company hierarchy, a network engineer may oversee network administrators. Alternatively, a network engineer may not oversee any employees, but instead partner with certain roles as projects require it.

Job Requirements

An ideal network engineer will often need, at minimum, a BS or MS in a computer-related field such as computer science, computer engineer, or programming. Some employees prefer an MBA in information systems. Hands-on experience, particularly in IT systems or network administration is always helpful for a candidate.

Candidates applying for a network engineer position should underscore not only their knowledge, but their skills. Analytical skills and attention to detail are both vital skills, as network engineers must review complicated network systems and analyze what’s working and what isn’t – and then suggests and implements solutions.