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Computer Network Technician Job Description

Rahul Pandita
Working as Computer Network Technician is what interests you the most? Then read on for the information about the job description, employment outlook and average salary this profile can draw.
Computer network technicians are responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of computer networks. A computer network includes a group of computers that communicate with each other through a server.
A network technician sets up and manages the network for an organization. Companies look for candidates who have a Bachelor's degree in computer science.
Those who have a degree in electronics and telecommunication can also apply for these jobs. For those with a degree in other related fields, a certification course in networking can be really helpful. There are a number of certified courses that an aspiring candidate can undertake. These are:
  • CompTIA A+
  • Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
  • Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)
  • Certified Novell Engineer (CNE)
  • Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) Network Expert

Job Description

The job role of a network technician involves working with the IT team of an organization and resolving the software and hardware issues. Some of the main duties are -
  • A computer network technician is responsible for checking the computers and related applications to maintain smooth operations.
  • A network technician has to continuously update the network manager about the installation and configuration of various applications.
  • There are certain network issues that can be rectified if these are diagnosed early, so the network technician has to check all the components and identify the potential issues.
  • They help maintain and repair network infrastructure like operating systems, routers and other network components.
  • They recommend aspects like network addressing systems and configurations.
  • Computer technicians have to prepare written materials to convey the information regarding the servers to the organization in a professional manner.
  • Some of the support systems that the network technicians have to look after are email systems, VOIP, IP addresses. They have to ensure that these are made available to authorized users.

Employment Outlook and Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer network technicians have excellent career opportunities as the growth rate is expected at 11% till 2026. This growth rate will create approximately 24,000 new jobs.
Computer networks are mainstay of many businesses and the network technicians will always be in demand. The biggest threat that the organizations face today are system crashes and cyber attacks and network technicians can help in preventing these issues.
The average salary of a network technician is US$ 52,810 per year. There are lot of factors that influence the salary package and growth opportunities, primary among them being work experience, educational qualifications, type of employer etc.
Computer network technicians are also entitled to profit-sharing and bonuses which may count upto US$ 4,983 annually. For Computer Network Technicians, New York is the best city to work since it offers better growth opportunities and competitive salary package followed by Houston and Chicago.
Network technicians with more than five years of experience can earn about US$ 44,800 on an average. Not only the private firms hire network technicians, but the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Army as well are their top employers.
If you have a high school diploma or an equivalent and aspire to be a network technician, then you will be glad to know that a certified course and impressive recommendations can help you grab the various opportunities that this industry has to offer.