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Job outlook for lead network engineers in the United States
Lead network engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected lead network engineer job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for lead network engineers are projected over the next decade.
Lead network engineer salaries have increased 9% for lead network engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 116,184 lead network engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 58,355 active lead network engineer job openings in the US.
The average lead network engineer salary is $110,170.
Are lead network engineer jobs in demand?
Lead network engineer job and salary trends over time
Lead network engineer jobs over time
Lead network engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 116,184 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 105,053 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 53,584 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 45,652 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 46,747 | 0.01% |
Average lead network engineer salary over time
Lead network engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $110,170 | $52.97 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $106,540 | $51.22 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $104,128 | $50.06 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $102,922 | $49.48 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $101,146 | $48.63 | +2.4% |
Lead network engineer jobs by state
Most common states for lead network engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 481 | 69% |
| 2 | Alaska | 739,795 | 219 | 30% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 354 | 26% |
| 4 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 770 | 25% |
| 5 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,025 | 24% |
| 6 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 234 | 22% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,139 | 19% |
| 8 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 303 | 18% |
| 9 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 329 | 17% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 176 | 17% |
| 11 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 152 | 17% |
| 12 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 2,071 | 16% |
| 13 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 922 | 16% |
| 14 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 225 | 16% |
| 15 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 1,740 | 15% |
| 16 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 306 | 15% |
| 17 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 881 | 14% |
| 18 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 401 | 14% |
| 19 | Michigan | 9,962,311 | 1,287 | 13% |
| 20 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 383 | 13% |
Most common cities for lead network engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dover | 2 | 5% | $99,850 |
| 2 | Annapolis | 1 | 3% | $107,076 |
| 3 | Arlington | 4 | 2% | $105,290 |
| 4 | Alpharetta | 1 | 2% | $103,029 |
| 5 | Washington | 6 | 1% | $100,699 |
| 6 | Orlando | 4 | 1% | $100,906 |
| 7 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $103,102 |
| 8 | Durham | 2 | 1% | $111,664 |
| 9 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $107,774 |
| 10 | Dallas | 2 | 0% | $102,541 |
| 11 | Minneapolis | 2 | 0% | $98,003 |
| 12 | New York | 2 | 0% | $105,756 |
| 13 | Oklahoma City | 2 | 0% | $84,787 |
| 14 | Phoenix | 2 | 0% | $107,279 |
| 15 | San Diego | 2 | 0% | $126,101 |
Lead Network Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of lead network engineer experts
California State University - East Bay
Northwood University
Albertus Magnus College
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 Lead Network 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 Lead Network 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 Lead Network 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.*
Laura Kier
Network Design and Administration InstructorWhat general advice would you give to a Lead Network Engineer?
Laura Kier: Students graduating from the Computer Network Design and Administration program will enter the job market with a solid foundation in networking technologies. Above that they should also be able to develop and demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Networking has a strong emphasis on teamwork and being able to communicate well with customers, co-workers and teammates is vital. Attaining certifications in Cisco, Linux, Windows, and security will also help the student stand out within the industry (classes in the program help to learn the knowledge needed to attain certifications). Students should participate in any local or online communities and groups to enhance skills and knowledge and find networking opportunities.
What Lead Network Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Laura Kier: Computer Networking is a dynamic field with a wide variety of opportunities in many different industries. Some skills that will be more important in general are skills in software defined networking and automation. Skills in the DevOps field will be necessary, as well as skills leveraging AI tools. Cybersecurity is always important and using AI tools to enhance security and monitoring is necessary.
What will help Lead Network Engineers increase their earning potential?
Laura Kier: Learn to present your skills well from the interview and into your career. Those communication skills count! Industry certifications like CCNA matter. They help you demonstrate a willingness to grow and learn beyond what was required for your degree. Be willing to take on new challenges with your new job and keep learning new skills. It is really important for graduates to understand that talented IT professionals can move up quickly in a company, but they often must start at the bottom to showcase their technical and soft skills. Because of that, they should not shy away from entry level jobs if there is potential for growth.
Professor David Sanford
Associate Professor an Department Chair (MIS, CS, CYB MGT, IS CYB)Northwood University
Computer And Information Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Lead Network Engineer?
Professor David Sanford: Workers like that they are challenged to solve problems and lead technological innovations.
They appreciate the diversity of projects
They enjoy the need for continuous improvement and education
Many see the global impact of their work.
They also desire and appreciate the need for versatile skills
A competitive salary is also an item that employees like
Workers dislike that the work can be stressful
Dealing with tight deadlines and/ or cybersecurity concerns.
This is a positive and a negative: The need to constantly stay up to date with technology can be a bit overwhelming for some.
There may be times of isolation, and
The unexpected system failures can be frustrating as they often require extra hours or the need to be on-call.
The multiple responsibilities and managing repetitive tasks are also issues workers point out in this field.
In short, the workplace offers exciting opportunities but comes with its fair share of pressures and challenges. Different people have different experiences based on their roles and personal preferences.
David Garaventa
Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CISAlbertus Magnus College
Business Administration and Management Department
What skills stand out on Lead Network Engineer resumes?
David Garaventa: The skills/attributes required across a variety of jobs in the IT fields.