Career Profile Computer Network Architects Education Postgraduate degree This is the typical education required for an entry-level position. Earnings $134,000 This is the typical median salary earned for an entry-level position. Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Intranets. General Information Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software. Excludes Information Security Analysts (15-1212), Computer Network Support Specialists (15-1231), and Network and Computer Systems Administrators (15-1244). Watch a brief video about this occupation. Watch Video Computer Network Architects Occupational Outlook For the Rural Capital Area 47 Job Opportunities Over the next five years, an average of 47 openings per year are projected for Computer Network Architects. +15.3% Employment Change Employment for Computer Network Architects is forecasted to increase on par with the regional average by 15.3% between 2023 and 2028. $64.44 Earnings Potential An average worker in this occupation is paid $64.44/hour. Entry level workers are paid $43.50, while experienced workers are paid $75.18. The median wage is significantly above average regional wages across occupations. Local Employment Opportunities There are 462 Computer Network Architects in the RCA region. By 2028 this number could reach 533. Top Employing Industries, Locally The top industries employing Computer Network Architects are Computer Systems Design and Related Services, Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing, and Professional and Commercial Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers. Knowledge Areas The top most significant knowledge categories for Computer Network Architects include Computers and Electronics, Telecommunications, and Engineering and Technology. Educational Attainment Patterns The most common level of education for Computer Network Architects is Postgraduate degree. 94% of people employed in these roles have some form of college degree. Sources: BLS JobsEQ® ONET
