Career Explorer Computing and maths
Grows with AI
Computer network architects
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Among the careers AI is changing fastest: more resilient than 18% of the 831 careers we score. AI exposure is very high (the Bureau of Labor Statistics rates it very high), and US jobs are projected to change by +7.7% by 2035, faster than average. The work leans on creative vision.
AI can help with many of the tasks, and demand is still growing. Being fluent with AI is the edge here.
- Median pay (2025)
- $134,050
- Job growth to 2035
- +7.7%
- Openings a year
- 9,600
- People doing it (2025)
- 182,000
- Usual route in
- Bachelor's degree
Where people already use AI for this work
- Maintain electronic, computer, or other technical equipment
- Advise others on the design or use of technologies
- Set up computer systems, networks, or other information systems
From Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025).
Work AI rarely helps with
- Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures
- Develop contingency or emergency response plans
- Implement security measures for computer or information systems
What the work looks like
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
- Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
- Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
From O*NET 31.0, US Department of Labor.
Careers using similar strengths, with a stronger outlook
- ChemistsGrows with AI, Index 34, +6.4%
- Life scientists, all otherGrows with AI, Index 30, +6.3%
- Industrial engineering technologists and techniciansChanging shape, Index 47, +3.1%
- Zoologists and wildlife biologistsGrows with AI, Index 25, +3.6%
Also known as: Computer Network Technologist, Network Analyst, Solutions Architect, Systems Engineer, Communications Systems Technician (Communications Systems Tech), Engineer, Telecommunications Consultant (Telecom Consultant), Telecommunications Engineer (Telecom Engineer).
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Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2025 to 2035; O*NET 31.0; Microsoft Research (2025); Anthropic Economic Index (2026); Eloundou and colleagues (Science, 2024); Felten, Raj and Seamans (2023). How we score. Updated 12 October 2026.