An implementation engineer assists those who hire him or her with high-level IT support. While most companies have a mid-level tech team for routine IT implementation needs, the implementation engineer is called in for more complex needs or issues that are difficult to resolve. In some cases, he or she is also in charge of a technical team of employees.
Implementation engineers should have a diverse set of skills. Their job responsibilities include the ability to troubleshoot, analyze, and implement software, networks, and other technical needs. A person in this position collaborates closely with third-party contractors when necessary. This position’s responsibilities usually include training the third-party contractor’s employees in software implementation and use.
The implementation engineer must keep up with rapidly changing technology. If it benefits the company, whether it is newly developed software or a new networking program, the engineer is expected to know about it and be able to implement it. A large part of what is expected in this position is continuing education.
The engineer should be aware of the cost effectiveness of various programs in addition to knowing how to implement and use the software or networking tools. He or she can then make program recommendations to the company and third-party clients. On the job, the engineer also searches for the best product at the best price.
The majority of implementation engineers work at least some weekends and evenings. The engineer is in charge of dealing with system crashes that are beyond the scope of the tech team’s efforts. When a system fails, the engineer is expected to be available by phone and in person to provide assistance to the tech team.
Clients of the company may use the implementation engineer on occasion. This could include phone consultations. It could also mean that the engineer goes to the client’s location to fix system problems. When the engineer’s company sells networking or software systems to its clients, this is typical.
Many implementation engineers’ responsibilities include a significant amount of travel. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems is required for most engineers. Students can prepare for a career as an implementation engineer by taking network security courses.