What you need to know to get a network engineer job: Tips, life hacks, examples
Do you want to know how to get a job as a network engineer? Here are some tips for making your job search more successful.
You may have quit your job or been laid off. Perhaps you have just graduated or moved to a new city. Regardless of the circumstances that led you to begin the job-hunting process, it is inevitable that job-hunting is a full-time job. It is tough to find a job, whether you are a recent grad or someone who has been looking for work for years. To avoid unnecessary challenges during the job search, this article will assist you in making the right career decision.
If you are interested in becoming a network engineer, there is good news for you.
There is a high demand for network engineers. Most companies are investing in faster and newer technology to keep up with the current pace of growth in the IT industry. Professional network engineers are therefore in high demand. Some other factors encourage a new generation to become network engineers, including competitive salaries, big companies, or simply the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology. In other words, once you work in the IT field, you can do whatever you want.
Nevertheless, always remember, starting a career as a network engineer in this competitive environment is not easy. Most candidates have additional certifications in the relevant field. To help you start your career as a network engineer, we listed some tips and hacks that are sure to help.
Are you ready? Then let’s get started!
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Network Engineers must learn more about the IT industry
If you meet the necessary educational requirements, you may be able to get a job as a network engineer, but that is not enough. You will need IT experience to become a network engineer. You should start by learning about networking. This may be through working at a help desk or by gaining entry-level IT experience. By doing so, you rapidly develop the skills that you will need for your practical work. In addition, most companies prefer to hire candidates who have previous IT experience, as it saves them money on training.
It is best to start with an internship or an entry-level position. Some people don’t realize how much they gain from an internship program. This causes them to turn down internship opportunities. Through internship programs, you can gain knowledge about setting up and installing network systems and many other operations under the guidance of experienced professionals.
There are also several entry-level networking positions available:
- Network Technician
- Network Analyst
- Network Operations Associate
- Technical Support Engineer
Seek out small business ventures that need new network engineers. If you are not comfortable working with new people, consider volunteering for friends. Perhaps you can find yourself working with a reputable company, or maybe they can get you connected with a team of specialists.
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Decide on your career path in network engineering
Find your career path after you have gained hands-on relevant experience in the IT field. Companies, technologies, and industries all influence the opportunities that network engineers have. You will find it easier to find opportunities and job openings once you have chosen your career path. For those just starting in networking, the following are some jobs to consider:
- Network Administrator
- Network Specialist
- Network Manager
- Network Technician
- Network Analyst
- Network Solutions Architect
- Network Engineer
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Become an expert in network management
Your career path can be further specialized to be more specific. In addition to this, your specialization will also narrow down your job search, and you will become more comfortable with the process. These roles include security & cloud specializations, such as cloud network architect and network security specialist, as well as VoIP engineer & wireless networking quality assurance. Seek advice from another professional network engineer or a senior-level network engineer if you are unsure.
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Don’t hesitate to apply to giant networking firms
After acquiring adequate knowledge, certification, experience, and exposure apply to more prominent firms. Identify network companies you are interested in working with and visit their websites to determine their eligibility criteria and other requirements. Please keep in mind that you may not receive a job offer immediately after submitting your CV. The hiring process can take some time, so please be patient. In addition, getting hired at a larger firm may not be your ultimate goal. Look for a job that offers you the chance to advance to higher positions, such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO), network manager, etc.
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Freelance Marketplace Role in Finding Network Engineer Jobs
Visit Fieldengineer.com if you are interested in becoming a freelance Network Analyst in the Best Freelance Marketplace. This will help you to connect with employers who are seeking candidates with the right skills. This website offers access to more than 60,000 engineers from over 195 countries, making it one of the largest and most convenient on-demand platforms for employers looking to hire people with specialty occupations.
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Certifications for network engineers
It is the best and first step to becoming a network engineer to do some self-study. Consider getting certifications from vendors like CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), but prepare yourself before you appear for the test. There is no way to pass such certifications without preparation, and those who have taken these exams know how difficult they are.
CCNA candidates are evaluated on their practical knowledge during the test. Our recommendation is to prepare by using different CCNA books to pass the test. They are available for free online; you do not have to purchase them. Additionally, try taking online practice exams, since these questions can be tricky, so you will become familiar with their complexities.
It’s time to wrap things up!
The field of network engineering is both exciting and challenging. The process, however, requires hard work, knowledge, and certifications. Job opportunities in this field are not plentiful. Keep yourself informed on the latest trends and developments as a network engineer if you’re lucky enough to get hired. Also, develop your networking skills, work on as many projects as possible, and build relationships with engineers and vendors to boost your career prospects and stay competitive.