A network engineer resume isn’t just a list of previous jobs — it’s your opportunity to make a strong first impression in a competitive field.
But where do you start? Whether you’re new to network engineering or have years of experience, our guide provides all the tools, customizable templates, samples, and tried-and-tested tips you need to build a resume that truly stands out. Sounds good?
Keep reading to learn how to:
- Format your network engineer resume to impress
- Create an eye-catching professional summary for your network engineer CV
- Find the most effective skills to put on your network engineer resume
- Strike a fair balance in your network engineer work experience section
- Highlight your network engineer education section
- Include the right extra sections in your network engineer resume
- Access resources for job-seeking network engineers
Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.
1. Formatting tips to spruce up your network engineer resume
Cables resembling “spaghetti junction” are probably nothing you haven’t seen. Having to swap out switches in a messy cabinet must be every network engineer’s nightmare.
Just like it is for a hiring manager to browse through badly formatted resumes.
Make your CV neat and easy to read, and draw a recruiter’s attention to key information.
- Set 0.5-1 inch margins on all sides.
- Employ negative space between individual resume sections to make your resume breathe as a cabinet after removing dead cabling.
- Use a two-column layout so that you effortlessly fit all your sections in 2 pages.
- List your work experience and education reverse-chronologically.
- Make sure you use bulleted lists for better clarity.
- Select a classic font such as Cambria, Arial or Calibri.
- Save your CV as a PDF document if the job posting doesn’t state otherwise.
Choose your preferred template and make your resume shine.
2. Create an eye-catching professional summary for your network engineer CV
An appealing and relevant professional profile can get the recruiter on your side. It is the first thing they lay their eyes on, but it as well might be the last one.
It all depends on how you market your network engineer experience.
A well balanced and attention-grabbing professional profile should certainly contain keywords from the job posting you are replying to. Use them in the right context and mention your best, related accomplishments and outstanding skills.
Remember to employ interesting adjectives and impactful verbs to make it all work together.
Here's an example of a strong network engineer professional summary
Knowledgeable and qualified Network Engineer with 7+ years of experience installing, configuring, and maintaining communication networks. Adept at monitoring network performance, completing backups, and improving quality and efficiency of network infrastructure. Offers Network+ and CCNP certification, great analytical skills, and excellent time management abilities. Increased reliability of networks by 10% and was awarded Employee of the Month twice.
3. The most effective skills to put on your network engineer resume
There’s no question that you know your stuff. You would be able to toss all your tech skills off before one says “VoIP”.
In order to effectively compile your skill-set, refer back to the job ad, and look for the requirements in it. Mention the desired programs and network types at the top of the list. This way you’ll make sure that your resume catches a recruiter’s eye.
The best network engineer hard skills to put on your resume
- Virtualization and Automation
- Programming languages
- Nexus Operating System (NX-OS)
- Cisco Technologies
- Cisco Security
- Cybersecurity
- CCNP
- SD-WAN
- DNS
- OSPF
- BGP
- FLETC
- VMware NSX
- F5 BigIP
The best soft skills for your network engineer CV
- Teamwork
- Problem solving
- Organization
- Leadership
- Motivation
- Analytical skills
- Outstanding communication
- Negotiation
- Flexibility
- Prioritizing
- Stress resilience
- Time management skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Perseverance
4. Strike a fair balance in your network engineer work experience section
Planning an effective work experience section can be a real bear. There are quite a few aspects to take into account when describing your past roles.
Your resume will most probably have to go past the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) scan at the beginning of the process.
This effectively means that you will need to optimize your resume with specific keywords from the job posting. This way you will ensure that it will be passed along to the hiring manager.
Stick to bullet points. It is a great way to spotlight your accomplishments, and if you can measure them, you’ve just won the pot. The more numbers the better. Quantifying makes your achievements more tangible.
Network engineer work experience section example
Bravestorm Solutions, Austin, Texas
Network Engineer
2017 – 2021
- Maintained communication networks, monitored network performance, and resolved any technical issues.
- Collaborated with colleagues on the improvement of network infrastructure in order to increase quality, reliability, effectiveness, and reduce expenses.
- Installed and configured network devices, including routers, modems, hubs, switches, wireless AP's, and WLAN controllers.
- Performed backups of all servers and provided support and assistance to users.
- Skillfully completed troubleshooting and tested networks.
- Increased reliability of networks by 10% and was awarded Employee of the Month twice.
5. Highlight your network engineer education section
Your prospective employer may typically require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering.
Have you gotten the required title? Great! However, it does not end there. What if another 199 candidates have the exact same education?
Well, then one way to jump ahead of other candidates could be to highlight your memorable academic achievements or areas of interest.
Listing education in your network engineer CV
Massachusetts Institute of Technology,United States
MA in Computer Science
2008-2013
- First Class Honours (Top 5% of the programme)
- Area of interest: Computing Architecture
- Clubs and Societies: Engineering Society, Math Society
6. Include the right extra sections in your network engineer resume
Your academic degree is not the only thing that qualifies you for the job you are applying for. It’s surely a combination of particular skills you have obtained through various activities and interests, moulding you into a self-driven network engineer.
Help your potential employer understand your character traits and aspirations through mentioning the most relevant extra sections.
- Certifications
- Accomplishments
- Volunteering activities
- Conferences
- Language Skills
- Computer science projects
- Interests
- Awards
Here are examples of how to properly list extra sections on your network engineer resume
Certifications
- CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), 2016
- CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert), 2015
- WCNA (Wireshark Certified Network Analyst), 2014
Volunteering Activities
- IT Support Volunteer, Local Non-Profit Organization
- Provided technical support to the organization's staff, assisting with troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
- Set up and maintained the organization's network infrastructure, ensuring smooth and secure connectivity.
- Conducted training sessions on basic computer skills and cybersecurity awareness for staff and volunteers.
- Mentor, Tech Youth Program
- Mentored high school students interested in pursuing careers in technology, providing guidance and support.
- Assisted students with computer networking projects, troubleshooting network configurations, and implementing solutions.
- Organized workshops and guest speaker events to inspire and educate students about the field of network engineering.
7. Top resources for job-seeking network engineers
We all know a strong resume is essential, but building a solid network and knowing where to find the best job resources can make all the difference. With the right connections and tools, you’ll speed up your job search and be one step closer to landing the job you want.
Here are some essential resources for network engineers aiming to stay ahead:
- Industry-specific job boards: Explore job boards dedicated to technology and engineering roles, like Dice, TechCareers, and ITJobPro. These platforms focus on tech roles and provide filters tailored to network engineering, making it easier to find specialized positions.
- General job search platforms: Using general job search platforms can be a smart move for advancing your career. Consider exploring options like Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, Snagajob, and Indeed.
- Networking: Networking is one of the best ways to secure a job, and it’s never been easier. You can start by connecting with industry experts and professionals on LinkedIn from the comfort of your home. You can also consider joining virtual events or Meetup groups for IT professionals to expand your network and find new opportunities.
- Freelance and contract platforms: For those interested in contract or freelance roles, platforms like Upwork and Freelancer offer numerous opportunities in network engineering. These platforms are ideal for building experience, diversifying your skillset, and connecting with potential long-term employers.
- Continuous education & certification programs: Consider programs like Cisco’s CCNA to validate your skills and keep up with industry standards. Certifications in cybersecurity, such as Certified InformationSystems Security Professional (CISSP), can also enhance your resume and broaden job opportunities.
There are many ways and resources to elevate your job search and stay on employers' radar. With a proactive approach and the right tools, you’re well on your way to securing a role that aligns perfectly with your skills and ambitions.
Network Engineer Resume FAQ
What skills should I highlight on my network engineer resume?
The golden rule is to make your resume as specific to the job you’re applying for as possible. Focus on both your technical skills (like TCP/IP, network security) and soft skills (such as problem-solving and communication). Review the job ad for the skills they’re seeking and be sure to include them. Don’t just list your skills—demonstrate how you’ve used them with specific examples to achieve results. For instance, “Improved network uptime by 20%.
How can I use keywords effectively in my network engineer resume, and why is it important?
Keywords are an important part of any job application. Recruiters look for them in your resume to decide whether you’re a good fit. Plus keywords help your resume Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Pull them from the job ad—things like “network access control“, “firewalls,” or “network security”—and naturally work them into your skills and experience sections.
Which format should I use for my network engineer resume as a student?
As a student, you might have limited professional experience, but there’s still a way to create a strong network engineer resume without extensive work history. Consider using a functional resume format. This approach allows you to highlight your skills, relevant coursework, certifications, and any hands-on projects or internships, focusing on your capabilities rather than job experience alone.
Is it worth including personal projects or labs on my resume?
Absolutely, especially if you’re newer or want to show extra skills. Mention any hands-on projects or home labs where you’ve worked with network setups, security protocols, or cloud environments. Briefly describe the project, like “Built a home lab to simulate network security protocols,” to show initiative. Consider adding an extra “Projects“ section on your resume.
What common mistakes should network engineers avoid when crafting their resumes?
A common mistake is listing responsibilities rather than achievements. Instead of stating "Responsible for managing network infrastructure," focus on outcomes, such as "Managed network infrastructure, reducing latency by 15%." Avoid technical jargon that only a network engineer would understand; use terms that hiring managers can appreciate. Lastly, make sure your resume isn’t overly long—limit it to one or two pages. An overcrowded resume can dilute your impact, so be concise and relevant.