Computer Networking Jobs - What Are They and How to Get One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

The primary qualifications for a computer networking job are a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and several years of experience as a network administrator. Employers tend to prefer applicants who have a master's degree and intermediate- to expert-level skills with firewall and server configuration. Fulfilling the duties of a computer networking job requires familiarity with a wide range of network hardware and software, excellent technical problem-solving skills, and an understanding of network traffic analysis techniques. Some computer networking jobs work with sensitive material, so employers may ask you to obtain a federal security clearance. Pursuing additional education or certifications, such as an electrical engineering degree, may help you gain a competitive advantage or advance in this career.

Computer networking jobs include a variety of positions focused on installing, maintaining, and monitoring network systems. In this field, you may decide when and where to add new technology, apply the principles of computer science to secure a network, and coordinate with other employees to ensure all network devices are hooked up and configured properly. Your responsibilities may also include proactively anticipating problems, suggesting solutions, managing a ticketing system for maintenance, and helping develop guidelines for best practices. Jobs in this industry often have titles like technician or engineer, and occasionally require travel. Computer networking employees are often on-call to resolve problems outside of regular hours.