Network consultant

What does a network consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A network consultant is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining IT networks for companies and organizations. The role typically involves analyzing customer needs, proposing and configuring network solutions, as well as monitoring and troubleshooting potential issues. Tasks may also include security work, optimizing network performance, and documenting technical solutions. The work environment is often office-based, but assignments at customer sites and sometimes outside regular hours are common during critical system updates or incidents. Many network consultants work in project teams with other IT specialists, requiring teamwork skills and flexibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for a network consultant has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,400 SEK per month, increasing to 45 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 48 100 SEK. The total increase during this period is approximately 8.3%, which is slightly above the general salary development within the IT sector. Factors driving this development include increased digitalization, growing security needs, and continued high demand for skilled network specialists. Additionally, the level of education within the industry has risen, further pushing up salaries.

Network consultant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 53,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 289 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 8800 SEK, women 43 000 SEK (88% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data unavailable, but salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a network consultant, a post-secondary education in IT or computer engineering is usually required, often at university or college level. Certifications from leading vendors and practical experience in network operation or support are highly valued. Many employers also appreciate problem-solving and communication skills, as the role often involves customer contact and project work.

• Post-secondary education: University/college degree, 2–4 years in IT or computer engineering
• Certifications: Examples include Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA
• Internships/Traineeships: Internships or trainee programs are common entry points
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with an IT focus recommended
• Self-study: Online courses and lab environments can provide valuable practical experience

Common benefits and compensations

Network consultants are often offered attractive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, remote work options, further training, and access to certification programs. Bonus and performance-based compensation are also common, especially in project deliveries or high-complexity consulting assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the network consultant profession is relatively moderate, but challenges include rapidly evolving technologies and high demands for continuous skills development. The demand for qualified network consultants remains stable, but employers often seek specialists with certifications and experience from larger network environments. The industry is characterized by a fast pace and a need for constant availability, which can lead to stressful periods during outages or major upgrades. Staying updated on security issues is also a growing challenge, as cyber threats become more sophisticated.

Tips for aspiring network consultants

To succeed as a network consultant, it is beneficial to be analytical and have strong problem-solving skills, which aid in troubleshooting and designing complex networks. Curiosity and willingness to learn new technologies give a clear advantage in a field where development is rapid. Good teamwork skills are important since many projects involve contact with colleagues and clients, and communication skills facilitate documentation and advising. A structured work approach helps manage multiple assignments and keep track of details, while resilience is an advantage when critical incidents need quick resolution. It is also wise to pursue certifications and actively seek internships or trainee positions to build experience early in your career.

Key facts about network consultants

• Salary range: 42,700–53,800 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education, often 2–4 years
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes at customer sites
• Common work form: Project and consulting assignments
• Job openings: 179 advertised positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a network consultant can advance to roles such as network architect, IT security specialist, or senior technical consultant. Specialist roles in cloud services, cybersecurity, or project management are also common career paths. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, there is no specific assessment due to limited data, but the demand for network and system technicians is generally considered stable. The number of job openings in the field is currently 179, indicating good opportunities for those wishing to establish themselves in the area. Digitalization and increased security requirements are expected to drive demand for network consultants in the coming years.

Frequently asked questions about network consultants

• What does a network consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 48 100 SEK per month, with a range between 42,700 and 53,800 SEK.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 48800 SEK while women earn 43 000 SEK, which is 88% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a network consultant?
  - Post-secondary education in IT or computer engineering, often 2–4 years, along with relevant certifications from providers like Cisco or CompTIA.
• What is the job market like for network consultants?
  - Currently, there are 179 job openings in the profession, indicating good demand.
• What are common tasks for a network consultant?
  - Designing, implementing, and maintaining IT networks, troubleshooting, security work, and customer advising.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 53,800 SEK (male, private sector, advanced education), and the lowest is 42,700 SEK (female, private sector, unspecified education level).