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How to Become a Network Engineer: Australian Careers in IT

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What is a Network Engineer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Network Engineer?

A Network Engineer designs, builds and manages computer networks that keep businesses connected and running. They work across routers, switches, firewalls and wireless systems to ensure fast, secure and reliable data flow. Most roles sit in IT teams, telco firms, finance and government.

Day to day, Network Engineers plan new network systems, set up hardware and software, and track performance. They spot problems early and fix them before they cause downtime. They also apply security controls to protect data from threats.

Teamwork is central to the job. Network Engineers work closely with system admins, security teams and business units. They turn technical needs into network solutions that match what the business needs to achieve.

Network engineering offers an average salary of around $120,000 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Demand for skilled engineers is strong across all industries.

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Career snapshots For Network Engineers

Network engineering is a stable and growing field in Australia. Around 14,500 people work as Network and Systems Engineers nationally (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Strong demand is forecast as businesses invest in faster, more secure networks.

Most Network Engineers work full-time, with 93% in permanent roles (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). The typical week is 38 to 40 hours, though project work can add to this. The median age in the field is 40.

Network Engineers work across finance, IT, telco, professional services and government. Average weekly earnings are around $2,308, or about $120,000 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Senior engineers and architects earn considerably more. Women make up 8% of the workforce (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Industry bodies actively work to attract more diverse talent.

What will I do?

Network Engineers design, build and manage computer networks that let businesses share data and communicate. Their work keeps digital systems secure, efficient and available. They operate across corporate IT teams, telco firms, finance and government agencies.

  • Network Design: Creating plans for network systems, including hardware and software choices to meet business needs.
  • Network Monitoring: Tracking network performance and security to catch and fix issues before they cause downtime.
  • Configuration Management: Setting up and tuning routers, switches, firewalls and other network devices.
  • Troubleshooting: Finding and fixing connectivity problems, hardware faults and performance issues.
  • Documentation: Keeping detailed records of network layouts, configurations and change history.
  • Collaboration: Working with system admins, security staff and business teams to integrate solutions.
  • Security Implementation: Putting access controls and protocols in place to guard against cyber threats.
  • Systems Upgrading: Testing and rolling out new technologies that improve network speed and reliability.
  • Training and Support: Helping colleagues understand network tools, processes and best practices.

What skills do I need?

A Network Engineer needs a strong mix of technical skills and personal strengths. On the technical side, they must know networking protocols, routing and switching, and network security. They must also know how to set up hardware like routers, switches and firewalls.

Cloud computing, virtualisation and network monitoring tools are also important. More businesses are moving to hybrid and cloud setups, so these skills are in demand. Good problem-solving skills help engineers find faults fast and keep systems running. Clear communication matters too, as Network Engineers must explain technical issues to non-technical colleagues. The field changes quickly, so a drive to keep learning is a real plus.

Skills/attributes

  • Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF)
  • Network design and architecture
  • Routing and switching configuration
  • Firewall, VPN and network security
  • Network monitoring and performance analysis
  • Troubleshooting and fault diagnosis
  • Cloud and virtualisation technologies
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability to new tools and platforms
  • Project and change management
  • Documentation and configuration management
  • Commitment to professional development

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.