Cisco Network Engineer: Duties & Job Market

Are you creative, computer-savvy, and willing to complete a certification program? If so, you may enjoy a career as a network engineer -- and a Cisco certification can help bolster your credentials and lead to even greater success.

Duties of a Cisco network engineer
Cisco network engineers play a comprehensive role in implementing a company's network and intranet systems. A Cisco network engineer may be responsible for designing and configuring a company's network, ensuring its optimal performance, and providing ongoing support for the company's telecommunications system.

Where to find Cisco network engineer jobs
A growing number of companies rely on networking technology to keep their businesses running efficiently; as a result, Cisco-certified network engineers can find opportunities in a variety of industries. They may set up a small company's intranet, train employees to use Cisco technology, provide tech support, or maintain the network at a giant corporation.

Cisco network engineer programs
Most employers prefer at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering. From there, candidates can complete their Cisco certification, offered at four levels: Entry (CCENT), Associate (CCNA/CCDA), Professional (CCNP/CCIP/CCDPCCSP/CCVP), and Expert (CCIE). Specialist certifications are also offered in various security, telephony, and wireless technologies.

Demand for Cisco network engineer jobs
As more and more businesses implement networking technology, they'll need network engineers who can build and maintain their networks. Computer engineering is one of the fastest-growing industries; the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 38 percent increase in job openings between 2006 and 2016. In companies where Cisco products are used, Cisco-certified operating technicians will have a competitive edge.

Sound Off! Post Your Comments