Career Track : Network Architect
Network Architect Roles and Responsibilities :
Although there is some cross over between the job roles of
Network Engineers and Network Architects, there is a difference
in actual responsibilities. A Network Architect primarily
focuses on the design of the network and the implementation of
that design while an actual Network Engineer is usually the one
responsible for the actual implementation of the design. Similar
to a Network Administrator or regular Network Engineer, Network
Architects may also be responsible for some tasks relating to
telecommunications as well.
In companies that combine the telecommunications
responsibilities with that of the Network Architect, candidates
may also be responsible for the analysis, engineering and
execution of software functions for telecom voice and data.
Other general responsibilities may include :
* Design Modeling
* Network Performance Planning
* Network Capacity Planning
* Establishment of Telecommunications Standards (LAN/WAN)
Some employers may also require their Network Architects to
manage technology vendors. This would require candidates to stay
abreast of how technology infrastructures are currently
impacting and driving competitors. You may also be responsible
for negotiating high level contracts and maintaining long-term
relationships.
Educational Requirements :
Although a bachelor's degree or associates degree in computer
science, electrical engineering, MIS or other related industries
will suffice for a general network engineering position, you
need at least 6-10 years of technology experience to move into
the position of a Network Architect as well as several years of
experience working with Windows, Unix or Novell Systems.
Extensive knowledge of network management, engineering
disciplines, and operating systems are a must. An excellent
addition to your skill sets is a sub-specialty such as
telecommunications or e-commerce.
Soft skills as well as technical skills are important in the
position of a Network Architect. Understanding and knowing how
an application may affect the function of a business unit is
critical, as is the ability to negotiate technology issues while
building solutions. Excellent verbal and written communication
skills are required as well as the ability to create and deliver
effective presentations. A Network Architect will also need to
work closely with other department heads and must possess the
ability to see both the large and small picture.
Salary Potential : (As reported by the U.S. Dept. of
Labor)
Average salaries (nationwide):
Entry (less than 1 year of experience): Engineer $44,999
Architect $43,077
Junior (1-2 years of experience): Engineer $50,282 Architect
$55,961
Emerging (3-5 years of experience): Engineer $59,803
Architect $67,187
Experienced (6-9 years of experience): Engineer $68,845
Architect $78,787
Advanced (10+ years of experience): Engineer $75,584 Architect
$87,384
Industry Certifications :
There are many certifications that will look good on a resume
for a Network Architect. The most recommended are Novell's CNE
and Master CNE, Nortel's Network's Certified Network Architect
and Cisco's CCNP and CCIE. The larger the enterprise you've
worked with the better. You should however, complete the
recommended certifications for a Network Engineer first,
however. These include:
* A+ 2003
* CCDA
* CCIE
* CISSP
* Linux+
* LPIC2 Linux Junior Level
* LCPI2 Linux Intermediate Level
* Master CIW Administrator
* Master CIW i-Accelerate
* MCNE
* MCSA 2000
* MCSA 2003
* MCSE 2000
* MCSE 2003
* NetWare 5 CNE
* NetWare 6 CNE
* Network+
* RHCE
* RHCT
* SCE
* SCM
* SCP
* Security+
* Server+
* Solaris 8 SCNA
* Solaris 9 SCNA
* Solaris 9 Security
* TICSA