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What is a data communication engineer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
2 min read
Quoted expert
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to being a data communication engineer. For example, did you know that they make an average of $50.37 an hour? That's $104,774 a year! Between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow 5% and produce 8,400 job opportunities across the U.S.

What general advice would you give to a data communication engineer?

Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Professor of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, California State University - East Bay

*The anxiety of AI is likely to change the landscape of computer networking, is a real threat but in my opinion, it won't eliminate the need for human network engineers. The focus will likely shift towards more strategic tasks, complex problem-solving, and leveraging AI tools to improve network efficiency and security.*

*Here again, I will explain in more detail about the expectation and future of Comp. Network Eng.*

* 1. AI Augments, Not Replaces: While AI can automate some network tasks, like data analysis and basic troubleshooting, it won't replace the need for human network engineers. It will increase the productivity for sure; Complex problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and human judgment are still crucial in network management. AI will likely become a valuable tool that assists network engineers in their tasks, making them more efficient.*

*2. Growing Demand: Our reliance on technology and data is constantly increasing. Businesses and organizations need secure, reliable networks to function. This necessitates a skilled workforce to design, implement, maintain, and secure these networks. The demand for qualified network engineers is expected to grow in the coming years.*

*In our technology horizon, I can see the quantum internet coming and I can see the demand for network engineering accelerate.*

*3. Diverse Skillset: A strong foundation in computer networking equips you with a versatile skillset. You'll understand network protocols, security concepts, and troubleshooting methodologies. These skills are valuable across the IT field and can be applied to areas like cloud computing, data center operations, or even cybersecurity. Data Centers for AI are becoming a huge opportunity for Comp Network Eng.*
ScoreData Communication EngineerUS Average
Salary
7.7

Avg. Salary $104,774

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
5.7

Growth rate 5%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
3.6
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.32%

Asian 10.24%

Black or African American 10.18%

Hispanic or Latino 14.27%

Unknown 4.49%

White 60.50%

Gender

female 10.42%

male 89.58%

Age - 45
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 45
Stress level
5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level
7.7

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance
5.9

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Data communication engineer career paths

Key steps to become a data communication engineer

  1. Explore data communication engineer education requirements

    Most common data communication engineer degrees

    Bachelor's

    63.5 %

    Associate

    23.0 %

    Master's

    8.7 %
  2. Start to develop specific data communication engineer skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Switches9.77%
    Routers5.95%
    Network Operations5.90%
    Lan5.45%
    Technical Support4.02%
  3. Research data communication engineer duties and responsibilities

    • Design, configure, implement, and manage MPLS and VPN networks internationally.
    • Install and manage VPN devices for site-to-site and mobile client-base VPN connectivity to corporate resources.
    • Manage and dispatch a team of technicians to troubleshoot point of sale and data communications equipment.
    • Utilize advanced encryption devices to secure communications between all locations manage by the department.
  4. Apply for data communication engineer jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a data communication engineer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first data communication engineer job

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Average data communication engineer salary

The average data communication engineer salary in the United States is $104,774 per year or $50 per hour. Data communication engineer salaries range between $84,000 and $130,000 per year.

Average data communication engineer salary
$104,774 Yearly
$50.37 hourly

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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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