Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Work Activities
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Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
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Develop disaster recovery plans.
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Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
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Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.
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Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
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Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
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Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
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Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
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Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
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Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.
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Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.
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Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.
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Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.
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Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.
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Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.
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Develop network-related documentation.
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Supervise engineers or other staff in the design or implementation of network solutions.
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Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
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Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.
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Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.
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Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.
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Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.
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Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.
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Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.
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Coordinate installation of new equipment.
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Explain design specifications to integration or test engineers.
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Develop or maintain project reporting systems.
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Use network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to optimize network designs.
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Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.
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Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.
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Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
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Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Education Bachelor's degree
- Work Experience 5 years or more work experience
- Training No on-the-job training
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Investigative: People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.They do well at jobs that need:
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Attention to Detail
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Analytical Thinking
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Dependability
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Persistence
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Integrity
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Achievement/Effort
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Network switches
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Network channel or data service units
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Network analyzers
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Computer servers
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Access servers
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Web platform development software
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Operating system software
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Network monitoring software
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Development environment software
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Administration software
