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Job outlook for senior network architects in the United States
Senior network architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected senior network architect job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for senior network architects are projected over the next decade.
Senior network architect salaries have increased 9% for senior network architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 35,008 senior network architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 95,327 active senior network architect job openings in the US.
The average senior network architect salary is $114,322.
Are senior network architect jobs in demand?
Senior network architect job and salary trends over time
Senior network architect jobs over time
Senior network architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 35,008 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 29,306 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 15,770 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 13,562 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 13,873 | 0.00% |
Average senior network architect salary over time
Senior network architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $114,322 | $54.96 | +3.4% |
| 2025 | $110,555 | $53.15 | +2.3% |
| 2024 | $108,052 | $51.95 | +1.2% |
| 2023 | $106,801 | $51.35 | +1.8% |
| 2022 | $104,957 | $50.46 | +2.4% |
Senior network architect jobs by state
Most common states for senior network architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 367 | 53% |
| 2 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,530 | 25% |
| 3 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 167 | 22% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 156 | 21% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,062 | 19% |
| 6 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,410 | 17% |
| 7 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 233 | 17% |
| 8 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,201 | 16% |
| 9 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 561 | 16% |
| 10 | Delaware | 961,939 | 158 | 16% |
| 11 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,972 | 15% |
| 12 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,520 | 15% |
| 13 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,510 | 15% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 812 | 15% |
| 15 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,304 | 14% |
| 16 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 147 | 14% |
| 17 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 79 | 14% |
| 18 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,624 | 13% |
| 19 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 215 | 13% |
| 20 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 112 | 13% |
Most common cities for senior network architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Richland | 2 | 4% | $120,021 |
| 2 | Milpitas | 2 | 3% | $156,830 |
| 3 | Novi | 2 | 3% | $108,763 |
| 4 | Annapolis | 1 | 3% | $99,236 |
| 5 | Boston | 6 | 1% | $108,894 |
| 6 | Atlanta | 4 | 1% | $100,607 |
| 7 | Irving | 3 | 1% | $103,708 |
| 8 | Bellevue | 1 | 1% | $121,651 |
| 9 | Carrollton | 1 | 1% | $103,690 |
| 10 | Carson | 1 | 1% | $145,029 |
| 11 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $97,563 |
| 12 | Minneapolis | 2 | 0% | $98,072 |
| 13 | Sacramento | 2 | 0% | $154,235 |
| 14 | Washington | 2 | 0% | $93,183 |
| 15 | Arlington | 1 | 0% | $99,605 |
| 16 | Austin | 1 | 0% | $102,723 |
Senior Network Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of senior network architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
California State University - East Bay
SUNY at Buffalo
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
Seminole State College of Florida
NCARB
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Architect?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Employers always stress the importance of students knowing the fundamentals of engineering and the integration of engineering fundamentals with architectural design. Our program is quite unique in this respect as we are the only degree program in the country where students can earn an architectural engineering degree that is ABET accredited (they can get their PE) - and then also can gain their NAAB accredited architecture degree with one additional year (allowing them to also become architects). Knowledge of building information modeling is required, and I would think that AI at some point will also play a role when combined with advanced surveying technologies.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Senior Network Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Martin Gold FAIA: The economy is historically dynamic and the field of architecture generally follows the economy so there are highs and lows. That said, there is always work in urban planning, historic preservation, adaptive reuse of buildings, and the need for new buildings. At the time of this writing, there is a trend to transform office buildings into residential uses as people work remotely much more often. This would be akin to the transformation of warehouse spaces into residential lofts in urban areas around the US in the 1990’s as manufacturing and shipping ports moved out of urban areas of the city. In the foreseeable future, there will always be a need for architects and associated professions to continue to improve on the constructed world in which we live.
What Senior Network Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What will help Senior Network Architects increase their earning potential?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling software like Revit is already all but a requirement to find professional work. Increasingly, firms are also looking for those who are capable of using visual programming like Grasshopper or Dynamo not only to generate forms but to optimize their workflow. In addition to those, professionals should familiarize themselves with modeling programs including SketchUp and Rhino and visualization platforms like VRay, Enscape, and Twin Motion. Soft skills like being personable and being able to present ideas extemporaneously will never go out of style.
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 Senior Network 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.*
What Senior Network Architect 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 Senior Network Architects 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.*
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Architect?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Adaptability will always be an important skill. There will be software improvements and changes that you need to stay aware of and technology that will benefit both the design and construction sides of the industry. Communication will remain an important part of the way we work together in teams.
What Senior Network Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Architecture licensure will help maximize salary potential, as well as pursuing other certifications such as LEED, CPHC, WELL, etc. Be your own advocate and request regular/annual reviews that allow you to highlight accomplishments and value you bring to your employer. If specialization appeals to you, there are opportunities to market yourself as an expert in a specific subject area.
What will help Senior Network Architects increase their earning potential?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Continue being a student throughout your career since learning never stops, especially in architecture where the knowledge is vast and first-hand experience is valuable. There are many facets to the architecture profession, when first graduating try to explore different roles to see what interests you and challenges you best.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Architect?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.
What Senior Network Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: Globally, there is significant demand for architects who are facile in the use of transformative technologies that support designers to generate and evaluate innovative ideas to provide solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Needless to say, being extremely competent in the many applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Extended Reality (XR), Generative Design, and Sustainability, will make new graduates effective at a time in which the profession and the world are rapidly transforming.
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 Senior Network 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.
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 Senior Network 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.
What experience really stands out on Senior Network Architect resumes?
Christy Graves: Software skills, such as AutoCAD and Revit.
What type of skills will young Senior Network Architects need?
Michael Armstrong: In most states, students interested in becoming architects will need to graduate from a NAAB-accredited program, earn experience through the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®), and pass the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®). These programs ensure young graduates earn knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas—like working with clients, determining project schedules, reviewing building codes and regulations, and establishing sustainability goals—and set them up for a successful career in architecture. For specific state requirements, explore our Licensing Requirements Tool.
We also encourage graduates, and all who are considering the licensed practice as a career, to explore our newly-launched Destination Architect site, an interactive guide with video tutorials and useful tips.