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Job outlook for lan/wan engineers in the United States
Lan/wan engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected lan/wan engineer job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for lan/wan engineers are projected over the next decade.
Lan/wan engineer salaries have increased 9% for lan/wan engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 10,810 lan/wan engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 53,143 active lan/wan engineer job openings in the US.
The average lan/wan engineer salary is $79,887.
Are lan/wan engineer jobs in demand?
Lan/wan engineer job and salary trends over time
Lan/wan engineer jobs over time
Lan/wan engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 10,810 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 7,746 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,874 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 3,664 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 3,751 | 0.00% |
Average lan/wan engineer salary over time
Lan/wan engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $79,887 | $38.41 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $77,255 | $37.14 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $75,506 | $36.30 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $74,632 | $35.88 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $73,343 | $35.26 | +2.4% |
Lan/wan engineer jobs by state
Most common states for lan/wan engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 484 | 70% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,361 | 28% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,321 | 22% |
| 4 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,053 | 19% |
| 5 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 470 | 15% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 883 | 13% |
| 7 | Delaware | 961,939 | 115 | 12% |
| 8 | Alaska | 739,795 | 87 | 12% |
| 9 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 788 | 11% |
| 10 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 441 | 11% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 63 | 10% |
| 12 | California | 39,536,653 | 3,557 | 9% |
| 13 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 447 | 9% |
| 14 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 117 | 9% |
| 15 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 793 | 8% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 563 | 8% |
| 17 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 429 | 8% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 153 | 8% |
| 19 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 47 | 8% |
| 20 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 94 | 7% |
Lan/Wan Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of lan/wan engineer experts
California State University - East Bay
University of West Florida
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.
Professor of Computer Science and Computer EngineeringCalifornia State University - East Bay
Computer Systems Networking And Telecommunications
What general advice would you give to a Lan/Wan Engineer?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *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.*
What Lan/Wan Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *Favor:*
*Variety: Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for problem-solving.*
*Demand: The field offers strong job growth and stability.*
*Impact: Your work ensures businesses and organizations remain connected and operational.*
*Learning: There's always something new to learn with emerging technologies.*
*Dislike:*
*Troubleshooting: Issues can be complex and take a lot of time to resolve.*
*On-call: Network problems can occur at any time, requiring on-call availability.*
*Pressure: Maintaining network uptime can be stressful, especially during critical periods.*
*Keeping Up-to-Date: Rapid technological changes necessitate continuous learning.*
What will help Lan/Wan Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *Computer Networking Engineers are crucial in designing, building, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex networks. They need strong technical skills, analytical abilities, and strategic thinking to ensure smooth network operations.*
*A bit more detailed explanation of the Computer Networking Engineers responsibility:*
*Designing and Implementing Networks: This essential task involves creating new networks or significantly upgrading existing ones. It includes understanding organizational requirements, planning capacity, selecting the right hardware and software, and configuring these components for optimal performance and security.*
*Network Automation: Engineers automate routine tasks using scripting languages like Python or tools such as Cisco automation software. This automation not only saves time but also ensures consistent configurations.*
*Troubleshooting Complex Issues: They tackle intricate network problems by analyzing traffic patterns, identifying bottlenecks, optimizing performance, and resolving complex connectivity or security issues.*
*Staying Updated with Technology: As the networking field evolves rapidly, engineers must keep up with new technologies, emerging security threats, and best practices through conferences, online forums, and continuous learning.*
Dr. Thomas Gilbar Ph.D.
Chair and LecturerUniversity of West Florida
Electrical and Computer Engineering
What soft skills should all Lan/Wan Engineers possess?
Dr. Thomas Gilbar Ph.D.: Communication skills, as I mentioned before, are absolutely vital. Note this means not only written but also verbal skills. I have had some excellent students struggle to find a job because their interview and communication skills are lacking. If you are given an opportunity to do a mock interview with the career services department at your University, take it.
Besides that, the soft skills mentioned most often by employers are time and project management. Plan to enthusiastically discuss any projects you worked on from start to finish. If you have no experience, those capstone projects required in just about every engineering program become absolutely vital. Don't skimp just to get it done. Choose a project that you can be proud of and that showcases your abilities. Emphasize any leadership roles you have had and your experience with working on a team.
Don't forget to show that you are willing and able to learn. Computer Engineers work in a very large variety of companies. The chances of your BSCE program covering everything you need are slim to none. Be ready to discuss things that you picked up on your own and emphasize your openness and excitement to learn more.