How do I Become a Network Systems Engineer?

Network systems engineers develop, analyze, and support network systems. The work might also entail doing computer maintenance and helping customers understand networking problems and solutions. To become a network systems engineer, you generally will need a college degree, an internship, and relevant post-graduate work experience.

It is important to get at least an associate's degree in network systems engineering if you want to become a network systems engineer. The associate's degree is the minimum entry-level degree for most network systems engineering jobs. Degrees in network systems engineering will typically include courses such as software engineering, technical writing, database development, and hardware configuration.

Granted, getting a bachelor's degree in network systems engineering could be more helpful in some cases. Keep in mind that pursuing an engineering career can be competitive. Thus, getting a bachelor's degree and getting good grades in college can be essential because a high grade point average (GPA) will be something that can distinguish you from your competition and which may be helpful in getting a job.

During college, it can also be helpful for you to participate in a network systems engineering internship. The career services department at your college should be able to help you apply for a network systems engineering internship. Completion of the internship during college can be important because an internship can provide you with valuable supervised experience to supplement your classroom learning.

Generally, it is recommended that you apply for your first network engineering job during the last semester of college. Doing an online job search can be helpful; however, the career services department at your college can also provide job-search help. Being geographically flexible and willing to accept a job in any geographic area will also improve your chances of finding a job.

You could look for graduate school opportunities as soon as you have completed your first two years of post-graduate work. Not all network systems engineers seek graduate training; however, some pursue graduate training because they have an interest in becoming an engineering supervisor, manager, or college professor. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in engineering with a focus in network systems engineering is recommended for anyone who wants to become an engineering manager or college professor.

If you decide to become a network systems engineer, it can be important for you to have personality characteristics that fit the job. For example, it is helpful if engineers are very logical and detail oriented. Also, good interpersonal skills can be helpful because engineers often work as part of a team.

Keep in mind that if you become a network systems engineer, after working for a few years, you are not necessarily limited to being a network systems engineer. You could choose a different career. For instance, you might also choose to work as a network technician, support systems specialist, MIS manager, or database administrator.