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Job outlook for network security architects in the United States
Network security architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected network security architect job growth rate is 32% from 2018-2028.
About 35,500 new jobs for network security architects are projected over the next decade.
Network security architect salaries have increased 12% for network security architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 5,550 network security architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 141,768 active network security architect job openings in the US.
The average network security architect salary is $123,842.
Are network security architect jobs in demand?
Network security architect job and salary trends over time
Network security architect jobs over time
Network security architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5,550 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 4,047 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,584 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 4,143 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 4,095 | 0.00% |
Average network security architect salary over time
Network security architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $123,841 | $59.54 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $119,761 | $57.58 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $117,049 | $56.27 | +3.0% |
| 2022 | $113,669 | $54.65 | +3.1% |
| 2021 | $110,206 | $52.98 | +2.8% |
Network security architect jobs by state
Most common states for network security architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 440 | 63% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,392 | 35% |
| 3 | Alaska | 739,795 | 258 | 35% |
| 4 | Vermont | 623,657 | 217 | 35% |
| 5 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,982 | 33% |
| 6 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 351 | 33% |
| 7 | Delaware | 961,939 | 317 | 33% |
| 8 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 206 | 27% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 354 | 26% |
| 10 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,831 | 25% |
| 11 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 895 | 25% |
| 12 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,285 | 23% |
| 13 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 135 | 23% |
| 14 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 672 | 22% |
| 15 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 2,679 | 21% |
| 16 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 2,187 | 21% |
| 17 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,878 | 21% |
| 18 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,491 | 21% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 406 | 21% |
| 20 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 220 | 21% |
Most common cities for network security architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $106,653 |
| 2 | Lakeland | 1 | 1% | $99,536 |
| 3 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $111,571 |
| 4 | Baltimore | 1 | 0% | $116,686 |
| 5 | Birmingham | 1 | 0% | $106,956 |
| 6 | Chandler | 1 | 0% | $136,087 |
| 7 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $113,068 |
| 8 | Denver | 1 | 0% | $110,391 |
| 9 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $112,453 |
| 10 | Fayetteville | 1 | 0% | $117,866 |
| 11 | Indianapolis | 1 | 0% | $105,981 |
| 12 | Los Angeles | 1 | 0% | $158,176 |
| 13 | Miami | 1 | 0% | $96,612 |
| 14 | Minneapolis | 1 | 0% | $99,115 |
| 15 | New Orleans | 1 | 0% | $109,421 |
| 16 | Phoenix | 1 | 0% | $136,770 |
| 17 | Saint Paul | 1 | 0% | $99,152 |
Network Security Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of network security architect experts
California State University - East Bay
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
Medaille College
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Seminole State College of Florida
Rochester Institute of Technology
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 Network Security Architect?
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.*
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Network Security Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
Dr. Steven MacMartin
Director, Associate ProfessorMedaille College
Homeland Security Program
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Network Security Architect job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Steven MacMartin: Overall, in general? Health care, elementary school teachers, daycare, researchers at the PhD level and also low level, entry/service jobs - fast food, restaurant, bar, etc. Homeland Security specifically - really none. Jobs in the Homeland Security field have remained largely unaffected by the pandemic, and the pandemic isn't really directly related to specific Homeland Security jobs. (Maybe in the research and technology fields.). A side effect of the pandemic has been to focus a little on cyber security issues and those jobs could expand in law enforcement and Homeland Security areas.
What soft skills should all Network Security Architects possess?
Dr. Steven MacMartin: Absolutely - writing and oral presentation. A secondary skill that is helpful is academic research skills. But definitely writing skills.
What skills stand out on Network Security Architect resumes?
James Shields: Many interviews for architecture jobs remain online at the present time, so an ability to communicate via Zoom or Teams is vital. Looking professional on the small screen with an ability to show your work well are skills that can be practiced before an interview. Most architecture employees are currently working online from home, so knowledge of the essential digital architecture programs (like Revit, Bluebeam, Sketchup, et al) is currently very important. On resumes and in portfolios, any experience in the architecture sectors that have remained relatively stable (Housing, Master Planning, Science & Tech, Schools, sustainable infrastructure) should be emphasized. If you have no such experience, read up on current trends in these practice areas online and find some that interest you. Conveying such an interest can go a long way.
Christy Graves
Professor/Program ManagerSeminole State College of Florida
School of Engineering, Design and Construction
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Network Security Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Christy Graves: BIM (building information modeling) technology will continue to become more important in the architectural engineering technology profession.
Clyde Eiríkur Hull
Professor of Strategic ManagementRochester Institute of Technology
Saunders College of Business
How do you envision technology impacting Network Security Architects in the next 5 years?
Clyde Eiríkur Hull: Architecture is being hit with virtual reality and augmented reality. Anything you can design now can be built in virtual reality for modeling. But the trend toward digital work is going to impact architectural designs for a long time to come. How will future homes be designed when many residents plan to work from home? How will professional buildings be impacted? Those are questions that architects are answering right now.