Computer network architects

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Develop disaster recovery plans.86
Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.84
Develop and implement solutions for network problems.80
Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.79
Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.79
Coordinate installation of new equipment.74
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.73
Develop network-related documentation.72
Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.71
Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.71
Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.70
Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.70

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Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.70
Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.69
Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.68
Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.68
Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.67
Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.66
Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.65
Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.65
Supervise engineers or other staff in the design or implementation of network solutions.64
Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.62
Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.61
Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.59
Explain design specifications to integration or test engineers.58
Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.57
Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.54
Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.53
Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.53
Use network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to optimize network designs.52
Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.44
Develop or maintain project reporting systems.43
Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.41

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Critical Thinking78
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension75
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Complex Problem Solving72
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Programming72
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Systems Evaluation72
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Active Listening69
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.
Judgment and Decision Making69
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Systems Analysis69
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Writing66
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Coordination63
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Speaking63
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning56
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

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Quality Control Analysis56
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Monitoring53
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Technology Design53
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Instructing50
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies50
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Mathematics50
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Negotiation50
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Persuasion50
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Service Orientation50
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Social Perceptiveness50
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Operations Analysis47
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Troubleshooting47
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Management of Personnel Resources44
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Equipment Selection41
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Operation and Control41
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Management of Financial Resources38
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources35
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Equipment Maintenance31
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Repairing28
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Science28
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Installation19
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Computers and Electronics92
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Engineering and Technology81
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.
Telecommunications81
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
English Language70
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Education and Training58
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Design55
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Customer and Personal Service54
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Mathematics51
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Public Safety and Security49
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Administration and Management45
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Law and Government43
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Communications and Media39
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

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Administrative33
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Production and Processing31
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Personnel and Human Resources28
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Geography24
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Mechanical24
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Economics and Accounting23
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Sales and Marketing20
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Sociology and Anthropology18
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Transportation18
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Building and Construction16
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Physics16
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Psychology15
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Chemistry11
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Foreign Language9
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
History and Archeology9
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Philosophy and Theology8
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Therapy and Counseling5
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Biology4
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Medicine and Dentistry3
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Fine Arts1
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Category Flexibility75
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Deductive Reasoning75
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning75
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Information Ordering75
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).
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Problem Sensitivity75
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Written Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Speech Clarity63
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

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Flexibility of Closure53
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Fluency of Ideas53
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Mathematical Reasoning50
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Number Facility47
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Far Vision44
The ability to see details at a distance.
Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Visualization44
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Memorization41
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Speed of Closure38
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Control Precision31
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Trunk Strength31
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Finger Dexterity28
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Arm-Hand Steadiness25
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Auditory Attention25
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception25
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Hearing Sensitivity25
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Manual Dexterity25
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed25
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Extent Flexibility22
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Dynamic Strength6
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Rate Control6
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time6
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Spatial Orientation3
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Multilimb Coordination0
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers94
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information85
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge83
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards79
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems76
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates75
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events74
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings74
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Analyzing Data or Information73
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Documenting/Recording Information73
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Processing Information71
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work65
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

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Communicating with People Outside the Organization63
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Developing Objectives and Strategies63
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials63
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others63
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Scheduling Work and Activities62
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others61
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Thinking Creatively61
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Training and Teaching Others59
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships57
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others56
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People55
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others54
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources51
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Performing Administrative Activities51
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information50
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment50
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Developing and Building Teams46
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates46
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Coaching and Developing Others45
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Controlling Machines and Processes40
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment40
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Handling and Moving Objects31
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public30
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Performing General Physical Activities30
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Selling or Influencing Others29
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Staffing Organizational Units29
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Assisting and Caring for Others28
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment26
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment23
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail91
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Innovation79
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Intellectual Curiosity79
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Cautiousness78
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Integrity77
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Achievement Orientation68
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Adaptability66
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Perseverance62
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Confidence54
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Stress Tolerance54
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity54
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

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Initiative53
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Cooperation46
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Leadership Orientation35
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Self-Control32
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Social Orientation27
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Sincerity21
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Optimism8
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Empathy7
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Humility7
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Investigative71
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Conventional68
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Realistic51
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Enterprising37
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Artistic21
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Social20
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day100%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day78%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day50%
- Once a week or more but not every day45%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day60%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually55%
- More than half the time20%
- About half the time25%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours60%
- 40 hours40%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others50%
- Contact with others most of the time25%
- Contact with others about half the time15%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important40%
- Very important40%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important35%
- Very important30%
- Important30%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom15%
- Some freedom60%
- Limited freedom25%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results20%
- Important results50%
- Moderate results20%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom15%
- Some freedom55%
- Limited freedom20%

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Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important15%
- Very important40%
- Important35%
Time Pressure
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
- Once a month or more but not every week55%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive35%
- Moderately competitive45%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious30%
- Very serious25%
- Fairly serious25%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day25%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- High responsibility25%
- Moderate responsibility50%
- Limited responsibility15%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important25%
- Very important20%
- Important25%
- Fairly important15%
- Not important at all15%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)25%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)45%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)25%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week35%
- Once a year or more but not every month40%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important20%
- Important30%
- Fairly important30%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually20%
- More than half the time15%
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time20%
- Never30%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week50%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never15%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually15%
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time45%
- Never15%
Spend Time Standing
- About half the time30%
- Less than half the time60%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Moderate responsibility30%
- Limited responsibility55%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week40%
- Once a year or more but not every month40%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated15%
- Moderately automated35%
- Slightly automated30%
- Not at all automated20%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month55%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week47%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never37%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time65%
- Never20%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Once a year or more but not every month60%
- Never25%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month60%
- Never30%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time65%
- Never30%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a year or more but not every month60%
- Never35%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Important20%
- Not important at all65%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month63%
- Never37%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never60%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never45%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time55%
- Never45%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Once a year or more but not every month40%
- Never55%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never50%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
- Never55%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time45%
- Never55%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month40%
- Never60%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
- Never65%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)20%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)80%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never80%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never75%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time25%
- Never75%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never85%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never90%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never84%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never90%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Post-secondary certificate
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Web platform development software
Django, Google Angular, Microsoft ASP.NET, Spring Framework
Instant messaging software
Blink
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Packet analysis software, Symantec Intruder Alert, Wireshark
Development environment software
Apache Kafka, Apache Maven, Go, Microsoft PowerShell
Operating system software
Bash, Google Android, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, UNIX Shell
Data base management system software
Amazon DynamoDB, Apache Hive, Elasticsearch, Oracle PL/SQL
Administration software
Cisco Systems CiscoWorks, Element management software, Netreo OmniCenter, Riverbed Technology
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software
Intrusion prevention system IPS, LogRhythm, Microsoft Forefront Threat Management Gateway, Virtual private networking VPN software
Object or component oriented development software
C#, jQuery, Scala, Swift
Configuration management software
Chef, IBM Terraform, Perforce Helix software, Puppet
Transaction security and virus protection software
CA eTrust, McAfee VirusScan, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software, Ping Identity
Data base user interface and query software
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2, Amazon Redshift, Amazon Web Services AWS software, Transact-SQL
Application server software
Docker, Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat OpenShift, Spring Boot
Switch or router software
Border Gateway Protocol BGP, Cisco Systems Cisco Web Cache Communication Protocol WCCP, Cisco Systems Gateway Load Balancing Protocol GLBP, Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol VRRP
Network operating system enhancement software
EMC Smarts Network Protocol Manager, Infoblox NetMRI, Silver Peak, Wide area network WAN optimization software
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Apache Spark, IBM Cognos Impromptu, Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition, Tableau
Program testing software
Hewlett Packard LoadRunner, JUnit, Segue SilkPerformer, Selenium
Enterprise application integration software
Atlassian Bamboo, Extensible markup language XML, IBM InfoSphere DataStage, Oracle Fusion Middleware
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit, Dassault Systemes CATIA, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Analytical or scientific software
Discrete event simulation software, Minitab, Root cause analysis software, The MathWorks MATLAB
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Multiprotocol Label Switching MPLS, Open Shortest Path First OSPF, Session Initiation Protocol SIP, Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Cloud-based management software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation, IBM WebSphere, IBM WebSphere MQ, Splunk Enterprise
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Capacity planning software, Network architecture design software, Requirements management software, Unified modeling language UML
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3, Network storage software, Storage area network SAN software, Storage management software
Access software
Access management software, Citrix cloud computing software, Remote access software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle Fusion Applications, SAP software
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Content filter software, Firewall software, Network intrusion detection software
Backup or archival software
Computer Associates ArcServ Backup, System and data disaster recovery software, Veritas NetBackup
Helpdesk or call center software
Help desk software, Ticket information tracking software
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange
Object oriented data base management software
Hibernate ORM, PostgreSQL
Video conferencing software
Cisco Webex, Videoconferencing software
Communications server software
Email management software, IBM Domino
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN, Git
Internet directory services software
Domain name system DNS, Microsoft Active Directory
Data base reporting software
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS, Network reporting software
Project management software
Atlassian Confluence, Microsoft Project
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Metadata management software
Quest Erwin Data Modeler
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software
Pattern design software
Diagramming software
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA
Authentication server software
Microsoft Forefront Identify Manager
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Expert system software
Ansible software
Graphics or photo imaging software
Trimble SketchUp Pro
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Clustering software
VMware
Desktop communications software
BroadSoft BroadWorks
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Video creation and editing software
Adobe After Effects
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Bridge software
Network bridge software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Financial analysis software
Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Human resources software
Human resource management software HRMS
Time accounting software
Time reporting software
Internet browser software
Web browser software
LAN software
Local area network LAN software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Cloud-based protection or security software
SolarWinds
Industrial control software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio
WAN switching software and firmware
Wide area network WAN software

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Maintain contingency plans for disaster recovery.
Develop computer or information security policies or procedures.
Recommend changes to improve computer or information systems.
Resolve computer network problems.
Maintain computer networks to enhance performance and user access.
Coordinate software or hardware installation.
Monitor the performance of computer networks.
Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
Document network-related activities or tasks.
Develop testing routines or procedures.
Install computer hardware.
Install computer software.

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Modify software programs to improve performance.
Configure computer networks.
Design integrated computer systems.
Provide technical support for computer network issues.
Develop models of information or communications systems.
Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Evaluate project designs to determine adequacy or feasibility.
Manage budgets for appropriate resource allocation.
Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
Develop specifications for computer network operation.
Supervise information technology personnel.
Test computer hardware performance.
Estimate time or monetary resources needed to complete projects.
Teach others to use computer equipment or hardware.
Communicate project information to others.
Analyze website or related online data to track trends or usage.
Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
Manage financial activities of the organization.
Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
Develop information communication procedures.
Manage documentation to ensure organization or accuracy.
Maintain computer hardware.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Computer Network Architect (Nof)
Internetworking Technician

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology