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The systems and networks architect is a professional who designs and monitors the entire telecommunications system of a company or institution. They are very often employed in IT engineering services companies. They analyze information flow to propose solutions that effectively meet the company's communication needs. A network architect fulfills several missions and also supervises their implementation within a controlled budget.

The average daily rate (ADR) of the systems and networks architect is £600/day at the start of career and £800 for systems and networks architects. The salary of a systems and networks architect The networks architect earns a salary that ranges between £40,000 and £80,000 gross per year.

The network architect is called upon to meet users' digital communication needs. They are an expert in networks and telecommunications who assesses technical requirements to propose suitable solutions. To do this, they first take time to analyze the existing network, following a very specific framework. Indeed, it is important to take into account certain constraints to ensure the network's evolution. These constraints are technical in nature and also concern the allocated budget. Whether employed by a company or affiliated with a digital services company, the network architect always conducts an assessment and studies the company's situation in depth. This assessment allows them to configure a network adapted to the company. They ensure interconnections between the company's different computers. They implement a computer network according to the company's capacity, install servers that provide access to company files, deploy a telephone network that meets the company's needs, supervise the entire implementation of the new network, and advise technicians in their missions. They are a knowledgeable manager who may even be required to draft calls for tenders and monitor their progress.

The systems and network architect's responsibilities are numerous. Starting from the study phase, they must be able to act by planning the network they wish to implement. They then define the priorities and problems related to information exchange and transmit the proper instructions to the staff responsible for setting up the computer system. Next, they handle the design of the network system. For this, they liaise with technical management to design a communication system that complies with security rules. The network architect's position in the structure can be different (subcontractor, internal employee, consultant, etc.). Depending on their status, they may well supervise the implementation and daily management of the network. They also negotiate contracts at the best cost.

The systems and network architect must be an expert in networks and telecommunications. They must constantly be on the lookout for technological developments in their field to anticipate and properly respond to users' needs. They must also master IT tools, demonstrate good listening skills and strong powers of persuasion. Only then will they be able to manage their clients' projects. Thanks to rigor, analytical thinking, and sound methodology, they will be able to comprehend the network's organization in a comprehensive way. They must also be open-minded, curious, and capable of maintaining perspective. Like all architectural specialties, this role also requires a good understanding of the company and client expectations. English proficiency is essential.

To become a systems and network architect, you need to obtain a master's degree (bac+5) in computer science, networks and telecommunications. For those with a bac+6 qualification, it is possible to enter the profession with a specialized master's degree in communication systems and networks, or in networks and information systems for businesses. Over the years, the network architect can aspire to professional advancement. For example, they can become the head of a networks or telecommunications team. They can also offer their services to companies wishing to develop their network and telecom systems.