A network engineer is in charge of setting up computer networks, Internet connections, and any other computer systems that a company may require. The network engineer may perform routine maintenance to ensure that everything is running smoothly and is available in the event of a problem. Those interested in a career in network engineering should learn how computers work and how different computer systems interact. Businesses often require multiple computers to connect to the same network, and they may also have a separate Internet connection, known as an Intranet, that is only accessible by employees.
When a problem arises, the network engineer must act quickly to resolve the issue so that employees can return to work. Because a problem can occur at any time of day or night, the work schedule is frequently hectic. Even routine maintenance is frequently performed early in the morning or late at night, when the computers or network are inactive.
Although certification takes about two years, the majority of training takes place on the job. Because technology advances at such a rapid rate, much of what is learned will be obsolete by the time the network engineer starts his first job. Most jobs still require certification, and it teaches the fundamental skills needed to become a network engineer.
A network engineer’s job can also be considered an information technology job. The engineer may also design the systems he intends to use, depending on the type of job. Rather than simply setting up a computer, he must figure out how to get all of the computers and other equipment on the same network to work in harmony at the same time. It necessitates both creative and problem-solving abilities, as well as technical knowledge of how everything works.
Employees in this field may work both internally and externally. Internal engineers are employed by a company and are responsible for setting up new systems as well as maintaining existing ones. Larger companies require part-time or full-time employees, and these companies typically have enough work that the position is not temporary.
Smaller companies may hire someone to work for them internally, but it is likely that the position will be temporary. Engineers who do not work for a company full-time may work for businesses on a contract basis. This is referred to as “working outside the box.” When a company without an engineer on staff encounters a problem, it hires a new network engineer to resolve the issue. The engineer may or may not have set up the current computer system at the company.