Become a Wireless Network Engineer

With more businesses across the world embracing wireless LAN and the increasing prominence of 5G, virtual reality (VR), DevOps, and software-defined networking (SDN) technologies, Wireless Network Engineers with problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and a thorough grasp of computer tools and software are in great demand. 

Role of a Wireless Network Engineer

A wireless network engineer is responsible for the design and development of wireless telecommunications infrastructure. They are in charge of understanding the requirements of the client or organization, executing installations and upgrades, setting up wireless devices, conducting audits, diagnosing issues, and making required modifications and alterations. 

They also devise methods for improving the performance of local wireless networks so that operations run smoothly and efficiently. Wireless network engineers are responsible for leading and managing a team to achieve set objectives while also pushing and executing the company's guidelines and regulations. 

5 Common Career Options for Wireless Network Engineers 

Network engineering is a promising career path because it is a rapidly expanding field. You can expect reasonable job security and good compensation as a wireless network engineer.

1. Senior Network Engineer

Senior network engineers:

• Oversee the company's network infrastructure

• Deal with complex network problems

• Optimize the system's design for maximum efficiency

• Configure network functionalities

• Ensure the network's highest level of security to prevent unauthorized access and suspicious activity on the network

In collaboration with network architects, senior network engineers build network designs, conduct diagnostic testing, and produce network solution reports that can be used for evaluation and recovery. A senior network engineer should be adept at communicating and organizing and have a thorough understanding of the tech sector, programming, and system protocols.

2. Wireless Engineer

A wireless service engineer offers internet and wireless telecommunication assistance to consumers in a particular location. A wireless engineer's task is to keep wireless coverage operational in a zone, connecting all customers to their subscription bandwidth and transmission power. In addition, the job also includes inspecting, monitoring, and maintaining all wireless equipment and infrastructure in a specific region. 

3. Project Manager 

Project managers are in charge of important company projects. They begin planning with all relevant departments, verify that the plans are carried out smoothly, and review the project for any necessary adjustments. As a result, project managers ensure that the project is cost-effective and within budget. They are also in charge of overseeing the project's workgroups and ensuring that everything goes according to plan.

4. Team Leader 

Team leaders are in charge of overseeing a group of people working on a single project or task. They mainly serve as a guide for the team, ensuring that everyone is still working towards the same goal. They: 

• Devise strategies for achieving goals

• Communicate these strategies to team members

• Allocate tasks and undertake a regular evaluation

• Create a pleasant and productive work environment

• Encourage and mentor team members

• Keep track of the team's progress

• Devise mitigation plans when necessary

• Inform upper management of the team's progress

5. Network Consultant

Network consultants are IT experts who design, set up, and manage computer networks for a company or a client. They manage technological difficulties and solve infrastructure problems on-site by overseeing a team of IT specialists. They are also responsible for documenting IT infrastructure and working with account managers to update documentation.

Average Salary of a Wireless Network Engineer

Wireless network engineers may expect to earn anywhere from US$ 68,000 to US$ 115,000 on average. Most wireless network engineers work for technology or telecommunications organizations, but some work for utilities or technology firms. 

Top Certifications for Becoming a Wireless Network Engineer

• Cisco Certified Network Associate: The first level of the Cisco enterprise track is the CCNA, which signifies that you have a solid understanding of networking fundamentals. To set up, configure, and run small networks (less than 100 nodes), certified professionals with CCNA use protocols like IP, IGRP, RIP, Ethernet, and dial-up access services.

• Cisco Certified Network Associate Wireless: CCNA Wireless is a Cisco Certified training program that certifies associate-level understanding and skills for configuring, implementing, and supporting wireless LANs, especially those using Cisco hardware. Network Engineers with a CCNA Wireless certification can handle a basic wireless network in an SMB to a corporate network on a Cisco WLAN. 

• CCNA Routing and Switching Certification: As companies move to controller-based infrastructures, the responsibilities and abilities of a core wireless network engineer are changing and becoming essential. As network transformations continue to emerge, the CCNA Routing and Switching certification will keep you abreast of the necessary skill sets to adopt these new technologies when they become available. 

• Cisco Certified Network Associate Security: CCNA Security certifies the skills and abilities necessary to safeguard Cisco networks at the associate level. To design a security architecture, identify vulnerabilities and threats, and neutralize security issues, a network engineer needs the CCNA Security certification. 

• Certified Wireless Network Administrator: The Certified Wireless Network Administrator or CWNA&reg certification is a fundamental wireless LAN qualification for the CWNP program. It is essential to acquire the CWNA certification to show employers that you can manage enterprise-class wireless LANs.

Although it is not necessary, a network engineer may find learning one or more programming languages beneficial. 

To accomplish daily tasks, companies are increasingly relying on networked devices. As a result, wireless network engineers are often required to assist users with designing, constructing, installing, and maintaining computer networks. 

A college degree is not always required to work as a wireless network engineer in many organizations. Instead, skills, expertise, and certifications are sought.