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Network engineer

Overview of the role

Designing, installing, maintaining and supporting communication networks within an organisation or between organisations.

Reference Number: ST0127

Details of standard

Role Profile

The primary role of a network engineer is to design, install, maintain and support communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. Network engineers need to maintain high levels of operation of communication networks in order to provide maximum performance and availability for their users, such as staff, clients, customers and suppliers. They will understand network configuration, cloud, network administration and monitoring tools, and be able to give technical advice and guidance.

Entry Requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but this is likely to include A levels; a level 3 apprenticeship or other relevant qualifications; relevant experience and/or an aptitude test with a focus on functional maths.

Technical Competencies

Can design simple networks from a well-defined specification and apply appropriate security products and processes

Can install and configure network components, including switches, routers and firewalls

Can optimise the performance of network systems and services

Can monitor, test and adjust network systems and performance to meet accepted standards using diagnostic tools, analysers and other equipment

Can apply diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the causes of network performance issues

Can apply structured approaches to troubleshooting network issues and repair faults in hardware, software products and the network

Can undertake system upgrades to network hardware, software and operating systems

Can integrate network related software into an existing network environment

Can interpret written requirements and technical specifications for network activities and maintain accurate records of network maintenance activities

Can log and respond to network service calls and provide technical network support to end users as required

Can document work done in accordance with agreed procedures

Can operate within the parameters of service level agreements, standards and/or agreed response times

Can operate effectively in the business environment and responds to business issues related to network engineering

Technical Knowledge and Understanding

Understands and applies the principles of networking, protocols and associated technologies (specifically this should include the latest published versions of OSI layer model, IP, TCP/IP, routing and switching, WANs, LANs)

Understands and applies the applied maths required to be a network engineer (e.g. algorithms, data, binary, probability and statistics)

Understands the causes and consequences of system failure including load balance and storage protocols and responds appropriately

Understands the architecture of a typical business IT system, including hardware, OS, server, virtualisation, middleware and applications

Understands and responds to security threats, firewalls and vulnerabilities

Underpinning Skills, Attitudes and Behaviours

Logical and creative thinking skills

Analytical and problem solving skills

Ability to work independently and to take responsibility

Can use own initiative

A thorough and organised approach

Ability to work with a range of internal and external people

Ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations

Maintain productive, professional and secure working environment

Qualifications

Apprentices must achieve one internationally recognised vendor or professional qualification, from the right hand column in the table below. This then exempts one of the Ofqual-regulated knowledge modules, as shown in the left hand column.

Individual employers will select which vendor or professional qualification the apprentice should take.

English and Maths

Level 2 English and Maths will need to be achieved, if not already, prior to taking the end point assessment.

Professional Recognition

This apprenticeship is recognised for entry onto the register of IT technicians confirming SFIA level 3 professional competence and those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration.