A technical architect oversees the creation and maintenance of a company's network and other web-related systems. While these professionals typically work in an office setting, some are self-employed and may act as consultants or provide project management services. The requirements for securing work as a technical architect vary based on an employer's preference, but usually include a bachelor's degree.
Essential Information
Technical architects set up and maintain computer networks, systems and other infrastructure for businesses and organizations. Many employers prefer that their technical architects have at least some postsecondary education. Overall, technical architects have a favorable job outlook, yet these professionals may increase their employment opportunities with industry and vendor certifications.
| Required Education | Bachelor's degree |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 5% for computer network architects |
| Median Salary (2020)* | $116,780 for computer network architects |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Technical Architect Job Description
Technical architects review business structures in order to ensure the proper flow and functionality of a business's Internet and Web systems. These professionals generally work in an office environment, but may venture into a server or systems area in order to monitor and troubleshoot hardware. Technical architects working for large corporations or organizations may travel to other sites in order to assist with new setups. Additionally, some technical architects may be self-employed professionals who are hired for consulting or project management jobs.
Technical Architect Duties
While specific duties of a technical architect may vary, many are responsible for installing and managing computing and networking systems. For example, technical architects may review and analyze system hardware, including routers and servers. In assessing each product, technical architects may use computer models to test bandwidth and other features. After technical architects have analyzed each product, they may recommend product upgrades or new products.
As project managers, technical architects create schedules for employees, review system objectives and train new hires. Architects are generally the primary point of contact for technical questions. As such, these professionals may guide technicians who diagnose complex computer system issues. Other duties may be to mentor and aid in the development of aspiring technical architects.
Requirements of a Technical Architect
While some employers may hire candidates who have several years of experience accompanied by industry and vendor certifications, others may prefer candidates who have completed a bachelor's degree program in information technology, computer science or a related field. Bachelor's degree programs begin with introductory courses in software and programming languages, such as C++. Students are also required to take courses in advanced mathematics in which they develop algorithms, sets of instructions used to perform data collection, processing and other duties.
Advanced students generally take courses on system architecture, performance and analysis. Topics may range from technical writing to operation systems, including UNIX, Linux and others. Classes may also teach students how to use certain products, such as Java, in order to develop Web and Internet applications.
Advancement
Employees may prefer job applicants who have several years of experience working as a computer support specialist, systems administrator or network engineer. Others may favor candidates who have completed a 1-2 year master's degree program in computer science. These programs allow students to gain advanced knowledge and experience in technical architecture, as well as provide specialization options. Aspiring technical architects may also consider voluntary industry or vendor certifications like those offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association, Cisco, Microsoft and Oracle.
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted faster-than-average employment growth of 5% for computer network architects from 2019-2029. In 2020 computer network architects earned an annual median salary of $116,780, per the BLS.
Technical architects are expected to understand various programming languages, like C++, as well as how to use a range of operating systems, such as Linux and UNIX. Career advancement can be achieved through work experience or by completing a graduate degree in computer science. Certifications that might help boost the likelihood of advancement include certificates for Cisco, Microsoft, and Oracle.
