Computer Network Architect Job Description

This is an example of a Computer Network Architect job description for a reference when building your resume. Analyze the qualifications and requirements listed to get an understanding of what you need to include on your resume for what employers would look for in this field.

SUMMARY:

A Computer Network Architect is a skilled professional responsible for designing and implementing complex computer networks that enable communication and data sharing among various devices, systems, and users within an organization. Network architects play a crucial role in planning, designing, and maintaining efficient and secure network infrastructures. They collaborate with IT teams to ensure networks meet performance, security, and scalability requirements.

Additional strategies for this can be found here.

FUNCTIONAL DUTIES:

• Network Design and Planning:
  • Design and plan computer networks, including LANs, WANs, intranets, and cloud-based networks, to meet organizational needs.
• Architecture Selection:
  • Select appropriate network architectures, protocols, and technologies based on performance, security, and scalability requirements.
• Infrastructure Setup:
  • Configure network hardware, routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and other components to ensure optimal network performance.
• Security Implementation:
  • Implement security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols, to safeguard network data.
• Network Optimization:
  • Optimize network performance by analyzing traffic patterns, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing solutions.
• Cloud Integration:
  • Design and integrate cloud-based network solutions for hybrid or fully cloud-based infrastructures.
• Network Monitoring and Maintenance:
  • Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and perform regular maintenance tasks to ensure network reliability.
• Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with IT teams, System Administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure network alignment with overall IT infrastructure.
• Capacity Planning:
  • Estimate future network capacity requirements and plan for network expansion based on organizational growth.
• Documentation:
  • Create and maintain detailed network architecture diagrams, configuration documents, and standard operating procedures.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Education and Experience:
   • A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is typically required.
   • Relevant work experience in network architecture or related roles is highly beneficial.
2. Networking Protocols and Technologies:
   • In-depth knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, etc.) and technologies (Ethernet, VPN, MPLS, etc.).
3. Network Hardware and Software:
   • Proficiency in configuring and managing network hardware and software, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
4. Security Practices:
   • Understanding of network security best practices, including authentication, access controls, and encryption.
5. Cloud Networking:
   • Familiarity with cloud networking principles and services, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
6. Network Monitoring Tools:
   • Experience with network monitoring and management tools, such as Wireshark, Nagios, or SolarWinds.
7. Problem-Solving Skills:
   • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to diagnose and resolve complex network issues.
8. Communication Skills:
   • Effective communication skills to explain technical concepts and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
9. Project Management:
   • Ability to manage network projects, timelines, and resources effectively.
10. Certifications:
    • Industry certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or CompTIA Network+.

Computer Network Architects play a critical role in establishing and maintaining the backbone of an organization’s IT infrastructure. Their expertise in network design, security, and scalability ensures that networks are robust, reliable, and capable of supporting the communication needs of the organization.

If you would like more help with your resume, check out our IT Resume Packages or contact us today for a customized quote.