Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Computer Network Engineer

Each Thursday, I’m highlighting a work-from-home job or business.

Job Description: A computer network engineer is one who manages the information technology hardware and infrastructure for businesses, organizations and governments.

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred, although some companies require post-graduate work or degrees as well.

Skills: The ability to monitor a network’s day-to-day operations, as well as organize, install and support a company’s computer networks.

Job outlook: U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) finds that “employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow 28 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for these workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks..” Check out the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for more details.

Possible employers: Think outside organizations or big businesses and target small businesses, such as restaurants and boutique retailers.

Preparation: Join the Association for Computing Machinery or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society. Both groups offer certification and continuing education courses.

Get your foot in the door: Call area nonprofits to see about work for a reduced rate for a referral or letter of recommendation.

Testimony: Jenny A. in Aliso Viejo, Calif., worked around 10 hours a week managing the IT hardware and infrastructure for a local quickservice chicken restaurant chain. It was hard for her to make time during the day for work instead of letting it pile up each evening. “It’s difficult at times to deal with the constant pull in so many directions—mother, wife, job—and still find time to take care of yourself,” says Jenny. “But I loved being home with my kids.”

Until next time,

Sarah