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. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.

Main Activities

Interacting With Computers : Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. 

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge : Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. The information technology field is always evolving,it desirable for the practioneer to keep updated of trends and the new technologies in the field in order to stay top in the job.

Getting Information : Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates : Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems : Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.Networks are bound to be down and it is required of a Network Architect to be able to troubleshoot and solve Network related issues.

Thinking Creatively : Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work : Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Areas of Knowledge

Computers and Electronics : Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Telecommunications : Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems

English Language : Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Engineering and Technology : Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Design : Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Mathematics : Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Education and Training : Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. A Network Architect may be called upon to train Network administrators.

Key Abilities

Problem Sensitivity : The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Deductive Reasoning : The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Information Ordering : The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Oral Comprehension : The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Oral Expression : The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Inductive Reasoning : The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

Speech Clarity : The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

Written Comprehension : The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Top Skills

Operations Analysis : Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

Active Listening : Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Systems Analysis : Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Active Learning : Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Complex Problem Solving : Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Systems Evaluation : Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

Critical Thinking : Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.