Network Specialist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Are you searching for a network specialist job description? Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a network specialist. Feel free to use our network specialist job description template to produce your own network specialist job description. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a network specialist.
Who is a Network Specialist?
A network specialist is an IT professional who manages a computer network and makes sure it has the right network configurations to meet a company’s demands. This person has experience working with computer networks. People who do a wide range of tasks using different computer networking platforms fall under the general category of network specialist professions. To benefit from a current hardware and software system, business executives and others should be aware of networks, which are a significant component of information technology. A network specialist can work in many different capacities, such as installing, configuring, providing user support, purchasing, or administration, as well as in many different fields, such as control operation, data recovery, or security. For a range of enterprises, network specialists deploy and maintain IT network infrastructure. To control the information flow, they gather data on network performance, keep an eye on network security, and maximize server capacity. At client locations, they also upgrade networks and resolve network issues.
Different computer workstations are connected to a network via wired or wireless technology. They can communicate with one another using bulk electronic mail thanks to this. Workstations can occasionally be connected to servers or other data processing equipment, which can store a lot of data and distribute it to other network nodes as needed. To ensure that the business always has the capabilities that the network was meant to provide, each of these sophisticated systems requires employees to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot the entire network. These intricate systems are built and maintained with the aid of a network specialist. The network specialist will get extensive knowledge of technologies like the Unix operating system, which is frequently used in network administration, as well as other proprietary software programs, during his or her employment. Network specialists are trained in various forms of computer repair and maintenance. They also learn the proper ways to set up a server and how to identify various hardware and software issues. Because they can react quickly to different network issues, they are a crucial addition to an information technology department. When a part of network malfunctions, it can quickly become a major problem for a company. When the server malfunctions and other staff members are unable to access the client data they require to perform their jobs, network specialists may be called in. If a business is using a server to serve customers, the issue becomes a question of customer support, and fixing the network issue fastly can help save a business a lot of money.
An aspiring individual in this field needs to have a solid background in information technology to work as a network specialist. Employers frequently demand at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or engineering, as well as relevant professional experience with computer information systems or computer networking. To prove your knowledge in the area, you could also pursue certification. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, as well as an up-to-date understanding of industry software and technology, are additional requirements. You need to have an in-depth understanding of network technology and prior experience in a similar position to succeed as a network specialist. A skilled network specialist will be able to communicate information securely, quickly, and reliably as a result of their knowledge of networks.
Network Specialist Job Description
What is a network specialist job description? A network specialist job description is simply a list of duties and responsibilities of a network specialist in an organization. Below are the network specialist job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a network specialist job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The roles and responsibilities of a network specialist include the following:
- Identify business requirements and work with the IT team to create and maintain network infrastructures.
- Assist in the maintenance of the integrity of a network system by monitoring the cooling system, the system server’s delivery capacity, and the installed software.
- Make sure that server communication is safe and reliable, and test network protocols.
- Create internet domains and improve intranet functionality
- Assist with systems, networks, and network configuration.
- Analyze consumer requirements to make a better contribution to the creation of networking technologies.
- Upkeep is required for all telecommunications equipment, including servers and switches.
- Set up all networking accessories on various workstations.
- Identify and fix all hardware-related issues for improved performance and to identify problems with networking techniques.
- Monitor systems to oversee firewall and other network-related process improvements.
- Ensure network stability regularly and frequently check all work.
- Create and maintain network and cable layout documentation.
- Handle troubleshooting and fix issues with VPN and VOIP systems.
- Help with network setting and phone base setup.
- Provide updates to Microsoft Active Directory regularly.
- Examine the project and carry out an audit using backup Exec.
- Aid in the development of a plan and program.
- Keep track of all of your IT assets and property.
- Gather information more systematically to improve the IT documentation process.
- Maintain cutting-edge practices and procedures in computing companies.
- Install, evaluate, and keep up the network and phone system.
- Install the UPS, routers, firewalls, and data wires.
- Control all system components, including the telecommunications and database systems.
- Test the transmission of data between servers, routers, modems, and computers.
- Prepare budgetary estimates for the hardware and software requirements.
- Create IT security software and inform staff and executive departments of new updates or problems.
- Monitor server performance and capacity to keep up with demand in online traffic.
- Develop backup, archiving, and data retrieval protocols as well as diagnostic testing, repairs, and backup procedures.
- Educate junior IT employees, create user guides, and offer onsite or remote technical help.
- Boost network security while also recording network procedures and wiring diagrams.
- Observe changes in network infrastructure and technologies.
Qualifications
- GED/high school diploma.
- Bachelor’s degree in information science, computer science, or in any related field
- Cisco, Microsoft, or CompTIA certified network professionals are required.
- A minimum of two years of experience as a network specialist is required
- Extensive knowledge of technology, protocols, and security related to network communication.
- Outstanding analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and teamwork abilities.
- Excellent time and project management abilities.
- Availability and willingness to go to client sites.
- Availability and willingness to conduct network maintenance after hours.
Essential Skills
- Time Management Skill: The ability to organize and carry out work in a way that guarantees you meet deadlines is known as a time management skill. It’s critical to effectively manage your time as a network specialist to finish tasks on schedule and meet client expectations. For instance, it’s crucial to arrive on time for every meeting if you’re working with clients who require assistance installing hardware or software. This will enable you to give them high-quality service.
- Analytical Skills: The capacity to evaluate facts and information, spot trends and patterns, and draw logical conclusions are all examples of analytical skills. As a network specialist, you might have to assess computer system security threats or vulnerabilities, consider software solutions, and decide how to effectively apply them. Strong analytical skills can assist you in resolving complicated issues and making judgments that will benefit your clients.
- Attention to Detail Skills: The capacity to notice minute details and make necessary adjustments is known as attention to detail skills. As a network specialist, you might need to see potential hardware or software faults before they develop into more serious ones. For instance, if a system update results in a few minor hiccups, you might be able to address them before they result in significant interruptions. The seamless operation of your company’s IT systems can be helped by doing this.
- Routing: Sending data between networks is a process known as routing. The ability to link networks and direct traffic between them makes this expertise crucial. It is also required for setting up a virtual private network, which connects two computers or servers securely and prevents outsiders from viewing their data.
- Problem Solving Skills: Because network professionals frequently troubleshoot and fix problems with client’s computer systems, they need problem-solving skills. They must be able to locate the root of an issue, assess viable fixes, and put successful solutions into action. This calls for tenacity, patience, and the capacity to reason via data analysis.
- Technical Skills: A network specialist needs to have a solid technical background since it enables them to diagnose and fix computer systems. They must comprehend how various kinds of software functionality as well as how the internet functions. This entails being familiar with a variety of operating systems, such as Windows or Linux, as well as being able to manoeuvre through challenging computer programs.
- Creativity: A network specialist must use creativity to find solutions to issues. They must come up with fresh ideas for enhancing a company’s computer system’s security or resolving emerging technical problems. They can generate original approaches to problems and inventive solutions thanks to their creativity. They can develop in their professions by using this talent to produce plans that are more successful than those of their peers.
- Switching Skills: The ability to switch between several types of network equipment is known as switching skills. One possible example of this is switching from one kind of router to another or from a wired connection to a wireless one. This ability enables you as a network specialist to quickly adopt new technologies and guarantees that you can offer your clients the most modern solutions for their networking needs.
How to Become a Network Specialist
Step 1. Obtain a degree
A bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, computer engineering, or a similar discipline is typically required for network specialists by employers. You can learn and develop knowledge and abilities in areas like routers, switches, and basic programming by earning a bachelor’s degree in one of these technology-related subjects. Additionally, you can participate in internships, obtain practical training, gain field experience, and even work part-time while finishing degree programs. A master’s degree can be obtained if networking is something you’re interested in concentrating on. By specializing, you may be able to boost your income potential and be qualified for specialist networking positions.
Step 2. Acquire experience and entry-level training
Gaining practical experience is essential to becoming a certified network specialist. Starting with your first entry-level employment and continuing throughout your entire career is on-the-job training. Building your networking initiative, working with senior professionals, and doing volunteer work for loved ones, friends, or small enterprises are just a few ways to develop experience and broaden your portfolio. When you believe you have mastered the skills required for your current work, you can choose to study new skills to broaden your skill set. Technical support technician or help desk specialist are common entry-level positions that network professionals begin their careers with. Learning how to be a network specialist and moving up to new positions both require on-the-job training. Documenting network issues, keeping an eye on networks, and providing technical assistance to staff are a few of the usual training programs at the entry-level.
Step 3. Obtain certifications
Even while not all businesses require certification, getting one is essential to increase your chances of getting hired. Network specialist certificates in fields like network configuration, security, or troubleshooting are offered by a wide range of professional organizations. The majority of network specialist certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate certificate and the CompTIA Network+ designation, can be obtained by passing a course, an exam, or a series of tests. These certificates, along with many others, need to be renewed regularly through tests and continuous education.
Step 4. Specialize in a field.
As you gain experience, there are numerous options to specialize your networking function. Positions in computer networking can vary widely based on the firm, the sector, and the technology used. There are several options to specialize in your profession once you have some experience at the entry level, including jobs like network administrator, network manager, network analyst, network technician, network engineer, and network solutions architect. Think about the networking opportunities that most appeal to you to assist define your professional path and identify your desired roles.
Where to Work as a Network Specialist
Since businesses are investing in technology like mobile networks and advanced faster systems, network specialists are in high demand. Network specialists are employed by a huge number of enterprises and industries, including healthcare organizations, information technology companies, educational institutions, and many other significant computer network users. Network specialists typically work in offices, however certain professions allow them to work remotely or move from client to client. Since most businesses rely on their computer network for communication and day-to-day operations, network specialists frequently work nights and weekends, especially when they need to handle networking problems.
Network Specialist Salary Scale
Different factors like the size of the company, location, nature of the industry, benefits and experience may considerably determine salaries amongst network specialists. The average network specialist’s salary in the United States is $73,036 per year. The entry-level position pay is $54,728 per year while the experienced network specialists earn over $110,503 per year. In the UK, the average salary for a Network Specialist is £57,499 per year. The salaries typically range from £47,499 to £59,999 per year.
The average salary for a network specialist in Canada is $80,361 per year. The entry-level positions typically start at $65,081 per year, while most senior workers earn up to $100,643 per year. In Australia, a network specialist can expect to make between $100000 and $120000 per year. Germany’s national average gross income for network specialists is 55.506 euros. The compensation scale is between 38.964 and 68.893 euros. The average yearly income for network specialists in India is 9.0 lakhs, with salaries ranging from 4.9 lakhs to 16.0 lakhs. In Nigeria, the average yearly salary for a network specialist is about 3,924,000 NGN. The lowest salary is 2,040,000 NGN, while the highest is 6,012,000 NGN.