How To Become A Network Operator: What It Is and Career Path

What is a network operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted Expert

Laura Kier

A network operator provides wired and wireless communication services that control the infrastructure necessary for selling and delivering services to mobile network operators and end-users. They monitor and troubleshoot communication and application-related tools to ensure they are functioning properly. They also test and implement new products and services that will promote the smooth running of networks.

Network operators utilize various techniques on both Linux and Windows-based machines to assess and identify network vulnerabilities. They maintain customer service by providing telephone and desktop support for all end users. It is important that a network operator has strong technical skills, communication skills, analytical skills, attention to detail, and customer service skills.

Network Operators usually work full-time 40 hours per week from Monday to Friday between 9 and 5. Some work extra hours in the late evenings and during the weekends where they have to meet with clients or handle emergencies.

What general advice would you give to a Network Operator?

Laura Kier

Network Design and Administration Instructor

Students graduating from the Computer Network Design and Administration program will enter the job market with a solid foundation in networking technologies. Above that they should also be able to develop and demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Networking has a strong emphasis on teamwork and being able to communicate well with customers, co-workers and teammates is vital. Attaining certifications in Cisco, Linux, Windows, and security will also help the student stand out within the industry (classes in the program help to learn the knowledge needed to attain certifications). Students should participate in any local or online communities and groups to enhance skills and knowledge and find networking opportunities.

ScoreNetwork OperatorUS Average

Salary

4.2

Avg. Salary $54,148

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

5.7

Growth Rate 5%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%

Asian 9.13%

Black or African American 9.20%

Hispanic or Latino 12.88%

Unknown 5.11%

White 63.37%

Gender

female 15.82%

male 84.18%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress Level

5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

6.7

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

7.1

Work Life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a network operator

Explore network operator education requirements

Most common network operator degrees

Bachelor's

52.7 %

Associate

28.9 %

High School Diploma

8.4 %

Start to develop specific network operator skills

Skills	Percentages
Switches	7.14%
Customer Service	6.11%
Routers	5.04%
SolarWinds	4.66%
NOC	4.40%

Complete relevant network operator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New network operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a network operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real network operator resumes.

Gain additional network operator certifications

Network operator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific network operator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for network operators include Network 5 Certification and Security 5 Certification.

More About Certifications

Research network operator duties and responsibilities

Manage database development and recovery.
Plan, configure and install new desktop computers, achieving standardization for workstations.
Manage and support the mission-critical LAN product delivery cores to standards of capacity, availability and security.
Weekend maintenance of server services on NT network and level one desktop support, monitors token-ring network, routers, switches.

Prepare your network operator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your network operator resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a network operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Network Operator Resume templates

Build a professional Network Operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Network Operator resume.

Apply for network operator jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a network operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do network operators rate their job?

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Network Operator reviews

A zippia user wrote a review on Feb 2020

Pros

I love the fact that I have self taught myself by trouble shooting issues for fifteen years while working in corrections as the Video court officer with no prior experince or degree

A zippia user wrote a review on Nov 2019