If you’re asking yourself “how much does a network engineer make?” you’re in the right place. Network engineers are responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and designing communication networks, which can include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or other data communication systems. In this guide, we’ll discuss the salary of a network engineer, as well as job responsibilities, certifications, and job outlook.
Median Salary for Network Engineers
So, how much does a network engineer make? According to PayScale, the median salary for a network engineer in the United States is around $72,000 per year. This is considerably higher than the national average for all occupations, which is around $41,950 per year. Of course, your exact salary can vary depending on your experience level, the industry you work in, and the size of the company you work for.
Salaries by experience level
When it comes to how much does a network engineer make, experience is a major factor in determining salary. Generally, salaries increase as experience level increases.
Entry-level network engineers typically make an average of $67,000 per year. This figure can vary widely depending on the company, but entry-level salaries tend to be in the low to mid five figures.
Mid-level network engineers usually make around $81,000 per year, with some earning up to $100,000 annually.
Advanced network engineers make significantly more, with salaries ranging from $100,000 to $125,000. Senior-level network engineers may earn up to $150,000 or more per year.
Salaries by company size
When it comes to how much a network engineer can make, the size of the company plays an important role. Smaller companies typically pay less than larger companies because they have fewer resources and typically fewer networking needs. However, there are also many advantages to working in a smaller environment, such as having a more intimate relationship with the team and being able to take on more responsibilities.
The average salary for a network engineer in a small business (1-50 employees) is approximately $60,000 per year. Network engineers in medium-sized businesses (51-250 employees) can earn around $70,000 annually, while network engineers in large companies (251-1000+ employees) can make up to $85,000 a year. With larger organizations come greater responsibility and specialization, so salaries tend to reflect this.
Overall, when it comes to how much does a network engineer make, the size of the company has an impact on salary. Smaller businesses tend to pay less, while larger ones can provide higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement. As a network engineer, it is important to evaluate the pros and cons of each type of job before deciding which one is right for you.