Requirements

Education and Experience

The minimum requirement to become a network engineer is typically a bachelor's degree, which can be earned in a field such as information technology or computer science. You could take classes like network security, Windows server administration, desktop operating systems and network infrastructure. Other areas of study could include enterprise administration, server applications and technical writing. In some cases, employers could prefer you to have completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a management information systems concentration. These programs combine technical computer courses with business concepts. Additionally, you could complete a master's degree in a subject like network engineering and management.

In order to work as a network engineer, you must typically have at least 5-10 years of experience working in a related field. You could find that employers expect you to have experience with specific types of routers, switches, software programs or network systems, and might also prefer some management experience. You might gain relevant experience working in an IT position or in network administration.

Skills

To be a network engineer, you must be an adept critical thinker who is able to analyze a problem and find a solution quickly. You must also be able to comprehend written texts. Computer network engineers also need to be able to perform systems analysis to ensure operations are running efficiently. Other valuable skills include complex problem solving, communication, operation monitoring and computer programming.

Job Postings

You could be eligible for network engineering jobs if you have a bachelor's degree and sufficient years of relevant experience. Some employers ask that you have experience working with certain kinds of networks and related network technology. Other jobs may require management skills as well. Take a look at these job postings listed by real employers in May 2012.

• A network engineer is needed in Pennsylvania for a senior-level position. The primary responsibilities for this job include direct network implementation, maintenance and troubleshooting. Experience with Cisco is desired.
• A network engineer is needed in Nebraska to install and maintain computer networks. There are very specific experience requirements for this position, including five years of experience in network infrastructure and configuration, as well as three years of experience in network management and creating network documentation. Cisco certification was preferred.
• A network engineer is needed in South Carolina at a technical services firm. For this position, a college degree in a related engineering or technical field could reduce the minimum experience requirement to only three years. Experience with routing and network systems is expected, and industry certifications are preferred.

How to Stand Out

According to the BLS, a master's degree that focuses on both network engineering and management or business concepts could be preferred by employers. A master's degree usually takes 2-3 years to complete and could qualify you for more senior positions. Additionally, you may be able to increase your chances of employment by earning a credential offered by a third-party organization, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential. Certifications are commonly preferred by employers, and certifications specific to networking could help you demonstrate your competency in this field.