2025 Network Engineering Tech Salary Guide

In 2024, the average salary for a mid-level Network Engineer ranges between $107,322 and $137,804, while senior-level Network Engineers can expect to earn between $130,486 and $164,034. 

The Network Engineering job with the highest salary in 2024 is for a DevSecOps Architect/Coach, with a salary range of $169,870 to $204,690.

For a Network Engineer with 5 years of experience in 2024, the salary typically falls within the mid-level range, which is between $108,697 and $122,846. This reflects a slight adjustment from previous figures, showing stable compensation levels at this career stage.  
 
As always, note that these figures can vary significantly based on location and company specifics. In tech-centric areas such as San Francisco or Seattle, salaries could be notably higher than the national average, often by 20% or more. 

Network Engineering salaries have increased compared to the previous year. The salary range for mid-level Network Engineers is between $110,500 and $136,700, while senior-level Network Engineers earn between $129,700 and $158,900.

The growth in Network Engineering in 2024 was influenced by several significant factors. A major contributor was the ongoing impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the tech landscape. AI and machine learning have continued to transform the industry, creating new roles and reshaping existing positions. Despite initial concerns about job losses due to AI, it has led to job creation and increased demand for AI skills. This evolution has led companies to prioritize hiring staff adept in AI technology, indirectly impacting network engineering as these roles often intersect in terms of required technology infrastructure and expertise.

A career in network engineering for 2024 continues to require a blend of technical and soft skills, with some updates reflecting current trends in the field: 
 
Technical Proficiency: This includes a deep understanding of networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP. Network security has become increasingly important, so knowledge of security protocols and encryption is crucial. 
 
Problem-Solving Skills: Network engineers must efficiently diagnose and resolve network issues. The increasing complexity of networks demands stronger troubleshooting abilities. 
 
Analytical Skills: With networks becoming more sophisticated, the ability to analyze data and network performance to improve efficiency is vital. 
 
Communication Skills: As networks grow more intricate, the need to communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders—including those who are not technically inclined—remains essential. 
 
Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to industry trends, such as software-defined networking and cloud-based solutions, is increasingly valued. 
 
Project Management Skills: With many network implementations requiring significant planning and coordination, having project management skills can be advantageous. 
 
Continuous Learning: Keeping up with new certifications and knowledge in networking technologies, such as cloud certifications and new networking tools, remains important as the field evolves.  
 
These skills help aspiring network engineers to excel and adapt in a rapidly changing technological landscape. 

The long-term prospects for network engineering in 2024 remain promising despite previous minor fluctuations in salary growth. While network engineering had experienced temporary salary stagnation in earlier years, the current outlook suggests a stabilization and potential growth in compensation due to the ongoing demand for tech talent. As multi-cloud environments continue to proliferate, enterprises are increasingly in need of skilled network engineers who can manage complex cloud environments. The shift towards more integrated and cloud-orientated networks further elevates the need for cloud skills among network engineers. 
 
Moreover, the continuous evolution of technology, coupled with the decreased fears of economic downturns, has positioned network engineering as a valuable and necessary field in the tech landscape. Additional opportunities are likely to arise as organizations continue to transition and upgrade their infrastructures to accommodate new technologies, ensuring a steady demand for skilled network engineers. 

The network engineering industry continues to offer promising opportunities for growth, particularly with the increasing integration of AI and machine learning technologies. Companies are actively expanding their tech workforce to support AI tech advancements, transforming existing roles, and creating new positions directly related to these technologies.