Network Engineer
Design, implement, and maintain computer networks. Ensure network performance, reliability, and security for organizational connectivity and communications.
What you need to know
Overview
Network Engineers design and manage the networks that connect computers, systems, and devices. They configure routers and switches, troubleshoot connectivity issues, optimize network performance, and ensure reliable communications. With cloud computing and hybrid work, network engineering skills are more critical than ever.
Ireland's tech sector employs thousands of network engineers supporting infrastructure for global operations. From multinational data centers to enterprise networks, Irish network engineers keep organizations connected and running efficiently.
Key responsibilities
- Design network architecture and topologies
- Configure routers, switches, and network devices
- Monitor network performance and availability
- Troubleshoot network issues
- Implement network security measures
- Manage network documentation
- Plan network capacity and upgrades
- Configure VPNs and remote access
- Work with cloud networking (AWS, Azure)
- Collaborate with security and systems teams
What skills are needed?
Networking
- • TCP/IP protocols
- • Routing (OSPF, BGP, EIGRP)
- • Switching and VLANs
- • Network design principles
- • Wireless networking
Technologies
- • Cisco/Juniper equipment
- • Cloud networking (AWS, Azure)
- • VPNs and remote access
- • Network monitoring tools
- • SD-WAN technologies
Professional Skills
- • Problem-solving
- • Analytical thinking
- • Documentation
- • Communication
- • Project planning
What is the pay?
Average Salary in Ireland
€38,000 - €70,000
Junior network engineers earn €38,000-€45,000, mid-level engineers earn €48,000-€62,000, while senior engineers command €65,000-€80,000. Network architects can earn €85,000-€100,000+.
Solid career with steady demand. Benefits include certification funding (CCNA, CCNP), professional development, health insurance, pension contributions, and on-call compensation where applicable.
What is the career outlook?
Job Growth
Consistent demand for network engineers in Ireland with over 800 positions advertised annually. Cloud and hybrid work create new networking challenges and opportunities.
Why the growth?
- • Cloud networking adoption
- • Remote work infrastructure
- • Network modernization projects
- • SD-WAN implementations
- • 5G and WiFi 6 deployments
- • IoT device proliferation
What education is required?
Educational Pathways
Network Engineering Degree
Level 7/8 in Network Engineering, Computer Networks, or IT from Irish Technological Universities. Practical skills often more important than degree level.
Cisco Certifications
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) highly valued and can enable entry without degree. CCNP for career advancement. Many Irish employers prioritize certifications.
Apprenticeship Route
Network apprenticeships available in Ireland combining work experience with study. Excellent practical training path.
Key Skills
- • TCP/IP and OSI model
- • Routing protocols
- • Switching and VLANs
- • Network security basics
- • Cisco/Juniper CLI
- • Network monitoring
- • Troubleshooting methodology
- • Cloud networking
- • Documentation skills
- • VPN configuration
Ready to Build Networks?
Explore resources for network engineering careers.
.png&w=256&q=75){kind=small}
