Computer network architects
SOC Code: 15-1241
Computer network architects carries a 49% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $130,390 and +11.9% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 179,200 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Computer network architects (SOC 15-1241) carries an AI exposure score of 49%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 179,200 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +11.9% change through 2034 — a strong growth outlook that compensates meaningfully for automation risk. Median annual compensation stands at $130,390, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Bachelor's degree, plus 5 years or more of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Computer network architects. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Develop disaster recovery plans.
- 2. Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- 3. Consult with users, administrators, and engineers to identify business and technical requirements for proposed system modifications or technology purchases.
- 4. Implement system renovation projects in collaboration with technical staff, engineering consultants, installers, and vendors.
- 5. Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
- 6. Keep abreast of changes in industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.
- 7. Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
- 8. Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
- 9. Review and evaluate requests from engineers, managers, and technicians for system modifications.
- 10. Assess existing facilities' needs for new or modified telecommunications systems.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Writing
- Speaking
- Monitoring
- Social Perceptiveness
- Complex Problem Solving
- Operations Monitoring
Knowledge Areas
- Telecommunications
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- Design
- Sales and Marketing
- Public Safety and Security
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Computer network architects?
Computer network architects has an AI exposure score of 49%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Computer network architects?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Computer network architects is projected to grow by 11.9% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 179,200 workers.
What skills are needed for Computer network architects?
Key skills for Computer network architects include Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, and others. Typical entry-level education is Bachelor's degree.
How much do Computer network architects earn?
The median annual wage for Computer network architects is $130,390, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Computer network architects?
The typical entry-level education for Computer network architects is Bachelor's degree. Employers generally expect 5 years or more of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Computer network architects?
Computer network architects roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).