Published: 26th November 2019.
Written by Melinda Irvine
Like most parts of the world, ICT careers in Australia are in a state of perpetual growth and workers are currently enjoying 6 figure salaries, as well as excellent job prospects. In this article we’ll provide answers to the most asked questions about a career as a Computer Network Professional including career paths, special skills, salaries, job prospects, and professional associations.
CAREER QUICK FACTS: Savvy Computer Network Professionals can expect salaries in the range of 100-150k.
Career path
Computer Network Professionals enjoy a wide career path — here are a few roles to consider:
Network Support Technician
Network Support Technicians support users of the network either on a remote help desk, or in an in-house role. They set up individual workstations, resolve system faults, install and upgrade hardware, network peripherals, and software.
Network Analyst
Network Analysts evaluate and monitor an organisation’s network infrastructure to ensure it is configured and operating at optimum levels. They also monitor network traffic for activity that may violate the integrity of the network.
Network Administrator
Network Administrators are responsible for configuring and deploying the entire IT network, then keeping it updated and secure. They do everything from ensuring the efficient performance of the server to developing operating procedures and user documentation.
Network Engineer
Network Engineers consult with organisational CEO’s and Departmental Managers to design and develop network architecture that helps the organisation meet their goals. They work closely with the Network Administrator to ensure the system operates efficiently and securely.
Job prospects
ICT Network Professionals are part of a large employment sector that employs a lot of workers. This employment sector is in a state of strong growth and there are likely to be more than 17,000 opportunities for Computer Network Professionals opening up across Australia over the next 3-5 years.
CAREER QUICK FACTS: Did you know that only 8% of Computer Network Professionals in Australia are women?
Qualifications
You can get started as a Computer Network Professional with either of these nationally recognised qualifications:
ICT40418 Certificate IV in Information Technology Networking
Learn how to install, configure, and manage a network server — securing data integrity and troubleshooting service interruptions. You’ll graduate with a set of consultative, analytical and problem-solving skills.
ICT50418 Diploma of Information Technology Networking
Learn how to install and deploy complex ICT networks that match the strategic needs of the business. Once you graduate, you’ll be proficient in network architectural designs, server virtualisation, and designing security perimeters.
Special skills
Apart from problem solving and analytical skills, the best IT Networking Professionals also have well developed emotional intelligence and a full range of soft skills including:
- Communication — could you explain to the company CEO how to better utilise the server for their business needs?
- Interpersonal skills — can you remain professional and empathetic during an interruption to the server?
- Flexibility — do you quickly adapt to new technologies or overnight changes to software applications?
- Teamwork — are you are a natural collaborator and willing to help other members of the IT department?
Professional Associations
For a career boost, consider a membership with the following professional associations — most of these organisations have an associate membership for IT students.