What does a network architect do? Duties, pay, education and outlook
Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks such as LANs, WANs and intranets. A bachelor's degree plus several years in a related role is typical. BLS reports a median pay of $134,050 per year (May 2025). Figures are from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| SOC code | 15-1241 |
| O*NET code | 15-1241.00 |
| Typical entry education | Bachelor's degree |
| Median annual wage | $134,050 per year (May 2025) |
| Projected growth | 8 percent (much faster than average), 2025 to 2035 |
| Number of jobs | 181,800 (2025) |
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, accessed 31 October 2026.
What does a network architect do?
BLS says computer network architects create plans and layouts for data communication networks, present designs to management, customers and staff, deploy networks and test the implementation, document processes, upgrade hardware and software as needed, and research and recommend new technologies for network performance.
Work environment
Most work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week. They usually work in offices and occasionally in server rooms. Computer systems design and related services employ 25 percent, finance and insurance 11 percent, telecommunications 9 percent and management of companies and enterprises 9 percent.
Education, training and licensing
BLS says a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology, engineering or a related field is typical, though some employers do not require a degree and others prefer a master's. BLS lists 5 years or more of related experience, often as a network administrator, database administrator or systems analyst. Employers may require or prefer vendor or vendor-neutral certifications.
Skills that matter
BLS lists analytical, detail-oriented, interpersonal, leadership, organizational and problem-solving skills as important qualities for this work.
How much does a network architect make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $134,050 for computer network architects (May 2025). The median is the wage at which half of workers earned more and half earned less. See the OOH pay tab and the OEWS data for your area. Our guide to researching pay explains how to read the figures.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment of computer network architects to grow 8 percent from 2025 to 2035, which BLS labels much faster than average. For comparison, BLS projects 3 percent growth for all occupations over the same period. About 9,600 openings are projected each year on average. BLS says most openings come from replacing workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force, for example to retire.
How to get hired
- Document network projects you designed or improved, and note any certifications employers ask for.
- Show results on your resume: the tools you used, the volume you handled and the outcomes, without private customer or employer details.
- If you lack experience, see the no-experience resume guide.
- Practice with the interview prep hub.
When you are ready, search jobs on LiveRec.
Related occupations
Network and computer systems administrators, Computer and information systems managers, Computer support specialists, Cybersecurity analysts, Database administrators.
Frequently asked questions
What experience do network architects need? BLS lists 5 years or more of related experience, often in a role such as network and computer systems administrator, database administrator or computer systems analyst.
Do network architects need certifications? BLS says employers may require or prefer vendor or vendor-neutral certifications, but a license is not mentioned.
How much do computer network architects make? BLS reports a median annual wage of $134,050 for computer network architects (May 2025). Half of workers earned more and half earned less. Pay varies by employer, region and experience.
Is network architect a good career? BLS projects 8 percent growth from 2025 to 2035 (much faster than average). About 9,600 openings are projected each year. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, so read the duties and work environment above.
Related guides
- What Does a Network Administrator Do? Pay and Outlook
- What Does an IT Manager Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
- What Does a Computer Support Specialist Do? Pay, Outlook
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Duties, Pay, Education, Outlook
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer network architects: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
- O*NET OnLine, 15-1241.00: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1241.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)
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