Cisco certifications are globally recognized and respected in the IT industry. Recruiters and hiring managers who interview candidates for IT positions often look first at the certifications, such as those from Cisco, that job applicants have to narrow down their searches. When you’re backed by the validation that Cisco certifications provide, it’s a big plus when looking for new job opportunities. There are numerous positions that you are qualified for when you have earned certifications from Cisco, and employers often offer higher pay for those roles.
The following are just a handful of the various jobs you might consider when you have earned Cisco certification, as well as the average salaries that people in those positions typically earn (depending on geographical location, skillset, work experience, and advanced certifications):
Systems Administrator
As a systems administrator, you are typically responsible for supervising the operation of a computer system. The most important aspect of this role is monitoring the overall health of the computer network and making sure that all parts of it are running smoothly. When there are problems, systems administrators follow contingency plans to back up data and restore the operation of the network with as little downtime as possible.
Additionally, systems administrators are responsible for supporting, troubleshooting, and maintaining all network-related aspects of the system. To become a systems administrator, you have to have a thorough understanding of the real-life operations of a computer network. When you have Cisco training, you learn how to apply that knowledge and how to deal with unexpected and challenging situations like data breaches and system faults.
Many systems administrator jobs require that candidates have the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certifications. The average annual salary for a systems administrator in the U.S. is $95,0001. Of course, if you have more experience and multiple certifications (Cisco and others), you can expect to earn more.
Network Technician
The network technician role is an entry-level position that is a great starting point for IT professionals who are just entering the technology field. In this role, you will usually work with customers or clients to help with the implementation and efficient operation of networks. You will be responsible for troubleshooting issues with software and hardware components of the particular network system. Network technicians also work with end-users, acting as support staff, training users, and installing operating systems.
As a network technician with a Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification, you can expect to earn an average annual salary of $61,0002.
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Network Engineer
Network engineers are responsible for the implementation and maintenance of an enterprise-level organization’s computer network. As a network engineer, you are responsible for supporting and troubleshooting any issues that come up with the network while ensuring the overall integrity of the system by making sure that security protocols and firewalls are operating efficiently. In addition to technical skills, as a network engineer, you will be expected to have leadership ability, the ability to work with teams, and excellent communication skills.
Typically, network engineers must have several years of work experience, as well as various certifications, both Cisco and others. The Cisco credentials that are most commonly required for network engineers are the CCNA, CCNP, and the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE). The average annual salary for a network engineer is $126,0003.
Network Architect
To be a network architect, there are specialized, technical skills that are required. In this role, you are typically responsible for planning and designing data and communications networks. Network architects also have to thoroughly understand the organization’s business needs and goals to create a scalable and secure network that operates smoothly.
The network architect is a high-level position that typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer networking or another related field, relevant work experience (5-10 years), and various certifications. The Cisco certifications that are most commonly associated with a network architect are:
- CCENT
- CCNA
- CCNP
- Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)
- Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP)
- Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE)
- Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr)
Network architects can expect to earn an average annual salary of $132,448. With more experience, certifications, and education, the salary could go as high as $190,000 or more, depending on the organization and the location.
Start Training for Cisco Certifications Today
IT professionals with Cisco certifications can expect to find exciting and lucrative careers in today’s job market. These certifications are often the standard that hiring managers look for in prospective candidates. If you are interested in attaining IT certifications, Cybrary has Cisco training courses to prepare you for the certification exams and the credentials that follow.
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