This article will introduce you to what a Network Engineering Manager is, the career information and prospects of a Network Engineering Manager and the necessary conditions to become a Network Engineering Manager.

1. What is a Network Engineering Manager？

A network engineering manager is a mid-level manager who is responsible for planning, coordinating and directing computer-related activities within an organization and engages in the planning, design and development of network systems.

2. What does a Network Engineering Manager do?

The Network Engineering Manager is responsible for organizing and managing the network infrastructure of the enterprise, ensuring the stability, security and efficient operation of the network system. This position involves leading a team of network engineers, managing advanced network technologies such as Wi-Fi, BGP, global WAN, SD-WAN and cloud connections (Azure/AWS), and ensuring strong, secure and high-performance network services across multiple geographic locations. And ensure that all network devices and systems comply with corporate strategies and industry standards. In addition, the Network Engineering Manager also needs to collaborate with other technical departments to develop network security strategies, evaluate the application value of new technologies, and optimize the use of network resources within the budget.

3. Career Insights: Salary, Outlook & Related Roles

(1) Network Engineering Manager Salary

According to ZipRecruiter's May 15, 2026 statistics, the average annual salary for a network engineer manager in the United States is $109,040. That's about $52.42 per hour. That's equivalent to $2,096 per week or $9,086 per month. The highest annual salary can be as high as $158,000 and as low as $31,000, but most network engineer managers currently make between $89,000 and $133,500, with the highest earners in the United States making up to $143,000 per year. The average salary range for a network engineer manager varies widely (as high as $44,500), which means there may be many opportunities for advancement and pay increases based on skill level, location, and years of experience.

(2) Job Outlook of Network Engineering Manager

As enterprises continue to grow their demand for digital transformation and efficient and secure network environments, the career prospects of network engineering managers are very optimistic. According to the latest employment trend forecast, this position will maintain steady growth in the next few years, and professionals with rich network architecture experience, network security knowledge and management capabilities will be more favored by employers.

(3) Similar Occupations

Network Architect
IT Manager / IT Director
Systems Engineering Manager
Cloud Infrastructure Manager
Security Manager / Network Security Manager
DevOps Manager
Telecommunications Manager
Infrastructure Manager
Wireless Communications Manager
Technical Project Manager (Networking Focus)

4. What Are the Qualifications to Become a Network Engineering Manager?

(1) Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

As with most positions in the IT industry, a network engineering manager's career typically begins with a bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field (such as computer programming, management information systems, applied mathematics, or network security), while a master's degree or industry certification can enhance your career prospects. Many companies also prefer their chief technology officers (CTOs) to have a master's degree in computer science, information technology, or technology management. CTOs also typically need several years of network engineering experience, including experience in management and leadership roles.

(2) Develop professional skills

The following skills are often sought in the job search for Network Engineering Managers: Experience with Cisco IOS is required, and familiarity with Cisco best practice architecture and design principles is a must. Familiarity with Linux, Microsoft Windows Server, Cisco routers and firewalls, TCP/IP, DNS, Active-Directory, and Microsoft IIS is preferred. Expert understanding of converged network design, including multi-layer Quality of Service (QoS) and WAN optimization, is required. Working knowledge of wireless technologies utilizing controller-based systems and authentication protocols is required. Expert understanding of public and private IP addressing best practice design and implications is preferred, and experience with common management and reporting tools such as Solarwinds is preferred.

(3) Earn Industry Certifications

When applying for Network Engineering Manager positions, it is helpful to obtain certain certifications as they can help you develop the key skills and knowledge required for the position and make your resume more noticeable to employers.Experience in the Technology industry is crucial in your job search, so you should receive on-the-job training. Many employers want to hire people who are certified in a specific company. Cisco is one of the most common systems, so getting a Cisco certification will give you the best chance of success in the job market.
The Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) certification shows the world you’ve got what it takes be a Network Engineering Managers of IT solutions.