Entry-Level Network Engineer Salary Trends: What Career Changers Should Expect
Entry Level Network Engineer Salary Trends: 2025-2026 Guide
Are you considering a career change into IT or cybersecurity, or looking to move up from entry-level help desk roles? Understanding entry level network engineer salary trends can help you make an informed choice about your next step and set realistic expectations for your earning potential in 2025 and beyond. This guide covers salary data, key skills, job market insights, and actionable steps for aspiring network engineers, especially those without a traditional tech background.
What Are Entry-Level Network Engineer Salaries in 2025-2026?
Entry-level network engineers in the United States can expect to earn an average base salary of about $66,600 in 2025, with total compensation ranging from $57,000 to $123,000 depending on location, skills, and employer. Major metro areas and up-to-date certifications can drive salaries higher, while demand for hands-on networking and security skills remains strong.
Why Network Engineering Is a Smart Career Move for Career Changers
The demand for skilled network engineers continues to grow as organizations modernize their IT infrastructure, adopt remote work, and strengthen cybersecurity. Whether you are transitioning from another field, leaving the military, or seeking to advance within IT, network engineering offers a robust career path with high job satisfaction, competitive salaries, and long-term growth. According to recent data, network engineers play a critical role in designing, maintaining, and securing computer networks, making these professionals indispensable across industries.
Understanding Entry Level Network Engineer Salary Trends
The latest salary data shows that entry-level network engineers (less than one year of experience) earn an average of $66,633 per year. Early career professionals (1-4 years) see an average of $77,209. As you gain experience and technical skills, salary potential rises substantially, with mid-level and senior engineers earning well above $100,000, especially in top tech hubs like San Jose, New York City, and Washington, D.C.
| Experience Level | Average Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (<1 year) | $66,633 |
| Early Career (1–4 years) | $77,209 |
| Mid Career (5+ years) | $110,000+ |
Salaries also vary by geography. Major cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta, and Dallas typically offer higher compensation, while remote and hybrid roles have increased salary parity nationwide. Bonuses, profit sharing, and commissions can further boost total pay, especially at larger employers or in competitive markets.
What Skills and Certifications Impact Entry-Level Network Engineer Salaries?
Employers are seeking candidates with hands-on expertise in:
- Switching and routing (especially Cisco technologies)
- Network management and administration
- Firewall installation and security protocols
- Network troubleshooting and support
- Understanding of TCP/IP, OSPF, and EIGRP protocols
- Telecommunications fundamentals
Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, and cybersecurity credentials are highly valued. Upskilling in areas like automation, software-defined networking (SDN), and cyber defense can accelerate your advancement and earning potential.
How Do Job Market Trends Affect Entry-Level Network Engineer Salaries?
The job market for network engineers is characterized by a shortage of experienced professionals and rising demand across both tech and non-tech sectors. Organizations are investing in digital transformation, remote work solutions, and cybersecurity, all of which require robust network infrastructure. This dynamic means that career changers with the right training and up-to-date skills have strong opportunities to enter and grow within the field.
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Key Duties and Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Entry-level network engineers are responsible for:
- Designing and implementing organizational computer networks
- Troubleshooting network issues for enterprise environments
- Maintaining network security and firewall software
- Managing network hardware and supporting users
- Collaborating with IT teams to ensure uptime and performance
These roles often function in office-based or hybrid settings, with increasing opportunities for remote work as digital infrastructure evolves.
Advancement Pathways: How to Increase Your Network Engineer Salary
There are several proven pathways to grow your salary in network engineering:
- Gain hands-on experience by working on complex network projects and troubleshooting real issues.
- Obtain advanced certifications (e.g., CCNP, security certifications).
- Expand your skill set into cybersecurity, automation, or network architecture.
- Consider changing employers for better compensation as you gain experience.
- Build strong professional networks and seek out mentorship opportunities.
Many entry-level engineers who actively upskill and take on new responsibilities can see rapid pay increases within their first 3–5 years.
Which Employers Are Hiring and What Benefits Can You Expect?
Top employers hiring network engineers include large technology companies, defense contractors, telecommunications providers, and enterprises with complex networking needs. Examples include Cisco Systems, General Dynamics, Verizon, and The Boeing Company. Most offer comprehensive benefits packages, with over 80% providing medical, dental, and vision coverage. Job satisfaction in this field remains high, with professionals reporting strong engagement and long-term career fulfillment.
How Can Career Changers Succeed in Today’s Network Engineering Market?
To break into network engineering as a career changer, focus on:
- Structured, hands-on training that mirrors real job requirements
- Building foundational knowledge in networking protocols and security
- Gaining practical experience through labs, simulations, or internships
- Leveraging mentorship and career coaching for job placement
- Obtaining in-demand certifications
NGT Academy specializes in helping adults, veterans, and tech enthusiasts transition into IT and cybersecurity roles, even if you do not have a traditional degree. Our mission is to help 1 million people land tech jobs by 2030. Learn more about our impact and approach.
Conclusion: Your Next Steps Toward a Network Engineering Career
Entry-level network engineer salary trends in 2025 and 2026 reflect a healthy, growing job market with strong compensation, advancement potential, and high job satisfaction. By investing in hands-on training, earning recognized certifications, and developing both technical and communication skills, career changers can confidently enter this dynamic field and build a rewarding future.
FAQ
What is the average entry-level network engineer salary in 2025?
The average salary for an entry-level network engineer in 2025 is about $66,600 per year, but can vary significantly based on location, skills, and certifications.
Which skills most influence entry-level network engineer pay?
Key skills include switching and routing (especially Cisco), network management, troubleshooting, firewall administration, and foundational cybersecurity knowledge.
Can career changers without a tech degree become network engineers?
Yes, with hands-on training, certifications, and mentorship, career changers from diverse backgrounds can successfully transition into network engineering roles.
Are network engineer salaries higher in certain cities?
Yes, salaries are higher in tech hubs like San Jose, New York City, and Washington, D.C., but remote roles are increasing salary parity nationwide.
What are the best ways to boost your salary as an entry-level network engineer?
Upskilling, earning advanced certifications, gaining experience, and changing employers are proven methods to increase your salary rapidly.