In today’s digital age, almost all industries rely on IT infrastructure to operate efficiently. An IT infrastructure engineer is an essential role in the industry, responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the technology infrastructure that supports an organization’s business goals.

IT infrastructure engineering encompasses a range of activities, from designing and configuring network systems to overseeing data management and security. Besides, infrastructure engineers are responsible for ensuring the smooth running of all hardware and software applications, from servers and storage devices to email systems and databases.

In a world where businesses rely heavily on technology, IT infrastructure engineers have become increasingly critical to the success of any organization. A well-designed and maintained IT infrastructure can help businesses streamline their operations, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Therefore, the role of an IT infrastructure engineer extends beyond the technical aspect of IT systems. They must also understand the business processes and goals of the organization they work for, ensuring that the technology infrastructure aligns with the organization’s needs.

In short, IT infrastructure engineers play a critical role in the industry, ensuring that an organization’s technology infrastructure is reliable, efficient and meets the organization’s goals. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the responsibilities and skills required of IT infrastructure engineers in today’s digital landscape.

Job Description of IT Infrastructure Engineers

IT infrastructure engineers are responsible for designing and implementing complex IT systems that support the organization’s day-to-day operations. They work closely with other IT professionals, such as software engineers and network administrators, to ensure the effective and efficient operation of the organization’s IT infrastructure.

Primary responsibilities of IT infrastructure engineers

The primary responsibilities of IT infrastructure engineers include:

Designing and deploying enterprise-level hardware and software systems that support the organization’s operations
Monitoring and maintaining IT infrastructure systems to ensure they remain operational and secure
Developing disaster recovery plans and procedures in conjunction with other IT professionals
Troubleshooting and resolving technical problems as they arise, either independently or in collaboration with other IT professionals
Keeping abreast of technological advancements and emerging trends in hardware, software, and systems management to inform decision-making about IT infrastructure

Qualifications and certifications required for IT infrastructure engineers

IT infrastructure engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Many candidates also have a professional certification, such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or the CompTIA A+ Certification.

Technical skills required for IT infrastructure engineers

IT infrastructure engineers must be proficient in hardware and software systems design and implementation, data center management, network protocols, and security protocols. They must also have knowledge of cloud-based systems and virtualization. Additionally, they must have excellent scripting and programming skills as well as experience with automation tools such as Ansible, Chef, Puppet, and Terraform.

Soft skills required for IT infrastructure engineers

IT infrastructure engineers must possess strong communication and project management skills to collaborate with other IT professionals and stakeholders effectively. They must also have strong problem-solving skills, as well as attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

IT infrastructure engineers play a critical role in supporting the day-to-day operations of organizations. They must have technical expertise, project management skills, and strong communication skills. Being able to work independently and as part of a team is crucial. Their role demands constant upskilling to keep up with the ever-changing technology landscape.

Day-to-Day Tasks of IT Infrastructure Engineers

As an IT infrastructure engineer, you will be responsible for a wide range of day-to-day tasks that keep the company’s technology systems running smoothly. Here are some of the most important tasks that you will be expected to handle:

Maintenance and troubleshooting tasks

One of the most important tasks for IT infrastructure engineers is to keep the company’s technology systems up and running. This includes performing regular maintenance tasks such as system updates and security patches, as well as troubleshooting any issues that arise.

When a system goes down, it can have a major impact on the business, so it is crucial that IT infrastructure engineers are able to quickly diagnose and fix problems. In addition to resolving issues as they arise, you will also be responsible for identifying ways to improve the overall stability and security of the infrastructure.

Deployment tasks

IT infrastructure engineers are responsible for deploying new technology systems and ensuring that they integrate smoothly with existing infrastructure. This can involve tasks such as setting up servers, installing software, and configuring networks.

In order to successfully deploy a new system, you will need to have a strong understanding of the company’s business requirements, as well as the technical requirements for the new technology. You will also need to work closely with other members of the IT team, as well as business stakeholders, to ensure that the deployment meets everyone’s needs.

Monitoring tasks

Another key task for IT infrastructure engineers is monitoring the company’s technology systems to ensure that they are functioning properly. This involves tracking things like performance metrics, network traffic, and system logs to identify any issues that may arise.

By monitoring technology systems on an ongoing basis, you will be able to detect and resolve problems before they have a major impact on the business. You may also need to set up alerts and notifications to ensure that you are immediately informed of any issues that require attention.

Documentation tasks

Finally, IT infrastructure engineers are responsible for creating and maintaining documentation related to the company’s technology systems. This includes things like system configurations, policies and procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

Documentation is important because it provides a reference for IT staff and business stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is on the same page when it comes to the technology systems. It also helps to ensure that the infrastructure is compliant with relevant regulations and standards.

As an IT infrastructure engineer, you will be responsible for a variety of day-to-day tasks that keep the company’s technology systems running smoothly. From maintenance and troubleshooting to deployment and monitoring, each of these tasks is crucial for ensuring that the infrastructure is stable, secure, and effective.

IT Infrastructure Engineer Salaries

IT infrastructure engineers are highly skilled and highly sought-after professionals. They are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the IT infrastructure of organizations. As such, they are well-compensated for their expertise and experience. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the average salaries of IT infrastructure engineers in different industries, the factors that affect their salaries, and the future job outlook for this field.

Average salaries of IT infrastructure engineers in different industries

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for computer network architects, which includes IT infrastructure engineers, was $112,690 as of May 2020. However, actual salaries for IT infrastructure engineers can vary significantly depending on the industry in which they work. Here are some average salaries for IT infrastructure engineers in different industries:

Information technology: $115,960
Finance and insurance: $117,140
Management of companies and enterprises: $119,670
Manufacturing: $99,880
Government: $106,000

As you can see, IT infrastructure engineers can earn a high salary regardless of the industry they work in. However, certain industries do tend to pay higher salaries than others. IT infrastructure engineers working in finance and insurance or management of companies and enterprises, for example, can expect to earn more than those working in manufacturing or government.

Factors that affect IT infrastructure engineer salaries

There are several factors that can affect an IT infrastructure engineer’s salary, including:

Education and experience: Generally, the more education and experience an IT infrastructure engineer has, the higher their salary will be.
Industry and company: As mentioned earlier, certain industries and companies tend to pay higher salaries than others.
Certifications: IT infrastructure engineers who hold certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) may earn a higher salary than those without certifications.
Location: Salaries can vary widely depending on the cost of living in a particular location. IT infrastructure engineers working in major metropolitan areas may earn more than those working in smaller cities or rural areas.

Future job outlook for IT infrastructure engineers

The outlook for IT infrastructure engineers is positive, with job opportunities projected to grow over the next several years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% growth rate for computer network architects from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. As organizations continue to rely on technology to drive their operations, the demand for skilled IT professionals, including IT infrastructure engineers, will continue to increase.

IT infrastructure engineering is a lucrative and rewarding career path for those with the right combination of education, experience, and certifications. IT infrastructure engineers can expect to earn a high salary regardless of the industry they work in, as long as they stay current with the latest technologies and trends.

Skills Required for IT Infrastructure Engineers

As an IT infrastructure engineer, there are two types of skills you must have: technical skills and soft skills.

Technical Skills

The technical skills required for IT infrastructure engineers vary depending on the position and the company. At a minimum, one must have knowledge of computer hardware, software, networking protocols, operating systems, and security.

In addition, some of the other technical skills you might need as an IT infrastructure engineer include experience with:

Cloud Infrastructure (AWS, Azure, GCP)
Automated provisioning and configuration management tools (Chef, Puppet, Ansible)
Containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
DevOps tools and practices
Monitoring and logging tools (ELK, Splunk, Nagios)
Databases and data management software
Web servers and server scripting languages (PHP, Python, Ruby)

Soft Skills

Soft skills are just as important as technical skills for IT infrastructure engineers. These skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Some of the other soft skills that are required for IT infrastructure engineers include:

Attention to detail
Flexibility
Adaptability
Customer service
Project management
Leadership

Common tools and technologies used by IT infrastructure engineers

IT infrastructure engineers work with a variety of tools and technologies on a day-to-day basis. Some of the most common tools and technologies that these professionals use include:

Operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and Unix
Virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V)
Storage area networks and storage management systems
Networking hardware and software such as switches, routers, firewalls, and VPNs
Data backup and recovery software
Remote administration software
Scripting languages such as Bash, Python, and PowerShell

IT infrastructure engineers must have both technical and soft skills to excel in their careers. They work with a variety of tools and technologies on a daily basis, making it crucial for them to remain up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.

Training and Certification for IT Infrastructure Engineers

As an IT infrastructure engineer, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, best practices, and new technologies. This can be achieved through a variety of training and certification programs.

Training Programs

There are many different training programs available for IT infrastructure engineers, ranging from online courses to in-person workshops. Some popular options include:

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This training program provides a comprehensive overview of networking concepts and technologies. It covers topics such as routing, switching, WAN technologies, and network security.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): This program focuses on Microsoft network technologies and products, such as Windows Server and Active Directory.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect: This program is designed for engineers who work with AWS technologies, such as EC2 instances, S3 storage, and security measures.
CompTIA A+: This program covers the basics of IT infrastructure, including PC hardware and maintenance, networking, and troubleshooting.
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA): This program provides training on Linux administration, covering topics such as system administration, storage management, and network configuration.

Certification Programs

In addition to training programs, there are many certification programs available for IT infrastructure engineers. These programs typically require passing an exam, and some examples include:

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): This certification validates skills in implementing and maintaining Cisco network technologies.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): This certification validates skills in designing, implementing, and managing Microsoft products and technologies.
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer: This certification validates skills in deploying and managing applications on AWS, as well as implementing continuous delivery and automation practices.
CompTIA Network+: This certification validates skills in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting networks.
ITIL Foundation: This certification validates knowledge of IT service management best practices and frameworks.

Advantages of Obtaining IT Infrastructure Engineer Certifications

Obtaining certifications as an IT infrastructure engineer can have many advantages, such as:

Improved job opportunities: Many employers require or prefer candidates with specific certifications, and having certifications can make you a more competitive candidate.
Validation of skills: Certifications validate your knowledge and skills in specific areas, which can give you more credibility and confidence in your work.
Career advancement: Certifications can lead to higher-paying roles, promotions, and new job opportunities.
Staying up to date: Certifications often require continuing education or recertification, which can help you stay up to date with the latest industry trends and best practices.

There are many different training and certification programs available for IT infrastructure engineers. Obtaining certifications can provide many benefits, including improved job opportunities, validation of skills, career advancement, and staying up to date with industry trends.

Pros and Cons of Being an IT Infrastructure Engineer

As with any job or career choice, there are both advantages and disadvantages to being an IT infrastructure engineer.

Advantages of Being an IT Infrastructure Engineer

Here are some of the advantages:

1. High demand

As technology continues to evolve and become more integral to businesses of all kinds, there is a consistent and growing demand for skilled IT infrastructure engineers. This means that if you have the right expertise and qualifications, you can expect to be in high demand throughout your career.

2. Competitive salary

Since IT infrastructure engineers are in such high demand, they are often able to command a competitive salary. Additionally, as you gain more experience and expertise, your earning potential can increase significantly.

3. Opportunity for growth

Along with a competitive salary, IT infrastructure engineers also have ample opportunity for career growth. As you become more skilled and experienced, you may be able to move into higher-level positions such as IT director or chief technology officer.

4. Job variety

One of the biggest advantages of being an IT infrastructure engineer is the variety of tasks and projects you may be working on from day to day. This can help keep the job interesting and engaging, and prevent it from becoming monotonous.

Disadvantages of Being an IT Infrastructure Engineer

Of course, there are some potential downsides to being an IT infrastructure engineer as well. Here are some of the main disadvantages:

1. High stress

Working in IT infrastructure can be high-stress, especially if you are responsible for mission-critical systems or network infrastructure. You may be called upon to troubleshoot and resolve issues at any time, including outside of regular business hours.

2. Technical complexity

IT infrastructure can be highly complex and technical, which means that it can take a significant amount of education and training to become an expert. Additionally, technology is always evolving, which means that you will need to consistently stay up-to-date on the latest advancements and trends.

3. Risk of burnout

Due to the high stress and technical complexity of the job, there is a risk of experiencing burnout as an IT infrastructure engineer. This can happen if you become overwhelmed or overworked, and may result in decreased job satisfaction or even physical or mental health issues.

4. High responsibility

Finally, IT infrastructure engineers may be responsible for maintaining and securing business-critical systems and data. This means that any mistakes or oversights could have serious consequences, which can add a significant amount of pressure and responsibility to the job.

Being an IT infrastructure engineer can be a rewarding career choice for those with a passion for technology and a desire to solve complex problems. However, it is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision to pursue this career path.

Steps to Become an IT Infrastructure Engineer

IT Infrastructure Engineers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the technology infrastructure of an organization. They ensure that the networks, servers, and other hardware and software systems are reliable and secure. Becoming an IT Infrastructure Engineer requires a combination of education, experience, and technical skills. Here are the steps to become an IT Infrastructure Engineer:

Education Requirements for IT Infrastructure Engineers

Most IT Infrastructure Engineer job descriptions require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may accept a degree in a related field or equivalent work experience. The coursework typically covers computer programming, network administration, database management, and cybersecurity. In addition, IT Infrastructure Engineers need to stay abreast of the latest technology trends and advancements.

Different Career Paths for IT Infrastructure Engineers

IT Infrastructure Engineers can specialize in various areas such as cloud infrastructure, network infrastructure, data center infrastructure, and security infrastructure. They can also move up the career ladder to become IT Infrastructure Architects, IT Infrastructure Managers, or Chief Information Officers (CIOs).

Tips for Gaining Experience as an IT Infrastructure Engineer

Get certified: IT Infrastructure Engineers can gain credibility and demonstrate their expertise by earning certifications in various technologies such as Microsoft, Cisco, and Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Volunteer or intern: IT Infrastructure Engineers can gain hands-on experience by volunteering or interning with non-profit organizations or small businesses.
Attend conferences and networking events: IT Infrastructure Engineers can learn about and connect with industry professionals and potential employers by attending conferences and networking events.
Stay up-to-date on technology trends: IT Infrastructure Engineers need to stay informed of the latest technology advancements, vendor updates, and best practices by reading industry publications and joining professional organizations.

Becoming an IT Infrastructure Engineer requires a solid educational background, technical skills, and experience. IT Infrastructure Engineers have a variety of career paths and opportunities for growth. By following these tips, IT Infrastructure Engineers can gain experience and stay up-to-date on the latest technology trends.

Example Job Descriptions for IT Infrastructure Engineers

As an experienced IT infrastructure engineer, your job description will vary depending on the industry you work in. Below are two examples of job descriptions that showcase the different responsibilities and technical skills required in corporate IT and healthcare IT.

Sample job description for an IT infrastructure engineer in corporate IT:

We are looking for an IT infrastructure engineer to join our corporate IT team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining our IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and storage systems. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the reliability, scalability, and security of our systems.

Responsibilities:

Design and implement scalable and reliable IT infrastructure
Install, configure, and maintain servers and storage systems
Monitor and manage the performance and availability of our networks
Ensure compliance with security policies and regulations
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues

Required Skills:

Strong knowledge of networking concepts and technologies
Experience in virtualization, cloud computing, and storage technologies
Familiarity with security protocols and tools
Proficiency in scripting and automation tools
Good communication and collaboration skills

Sample job description for an IT infrastructure engineer in healthcare IT:

We are looking for an IT infrastructure engineer to join our healthcare IT team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting our IT infrastructure to meet the needs of our healthcare providers and patients. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure the availability, integrity, and security of our systems.

Responsibilities:

Design and implement IT infrastructure that supports clinical workflows and patient care
Install, configure, and maintain servers and storage systems for electronic health record (EHR) systems
Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and privacy laws
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues

Required Skills:

Strong knowledge of healthcare IT standards and regulations
Experience with EHR systems and healthcare applications
Familiarity with healthcare security protocols and tools
Proficiency in project management and collaboration tools
Good communication and empathy skills

As an IT infrastructure engineer, you are a crucial member of any organization that relies on technology to achieve its goals. These job descriptions illustrate the diverse range of responsibilities and technical skills required in different industries. Whether you work in corporate IT or healthcare IT, your technical expertise and collaborative skills will help ensure the success of your organization.

Interview Tips for IT Infrastructure Engineer Candidates

As an IT infrastructure engineer candidate, you are likely to undergo a job interview before landing your dream job. A job interview is a crucial aspect of the job search process, and it can make or break your chances of securing your desired position. Therefore, being adequately prepared is crucial to increase your chances of success.

This section provides invaluable tips to help you prepare for an IT infrastructure engineering job interview, common interview questions, and how to answer them effectively.

Common interview questions for IT infrastructure engineer positions

During an IT infrastructure engineering job interview, you can expect questions that focus on assessing your technical and soft skills. Here are some common interview questions you might come across:

What are your experience working with networking?
How do you uphold security standards in an IT infrastructure setting?
How do you handle downtime or system crashes?
How do you keep your technical knowledge up-to-date?
What is your approach to troubleshooting?

These questions aim to determine whether you have the necessary technical experience and knowledge to handle the job, as well as your problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking abilities.

Tips for answering interview questions effectively

During an interview, the way you answer questions can make a significant difference in how the interviewer perceives your ability to handle the job. Here are some tips that can help you answer interview questions effectively:

Always listen to the question carefully to understand what the interviewer is looking for
Use specific examples from your past experiences to explain your answers better
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers
Be honest and straightforward in your answers
Show the interviewer that you possess a positive attitude and are willing to learn and work in a team.

These tips will help you stand out from other candidates and improve your chances of landing the job.

Tips for preparing for an IT infrastructure engineering job interview

Being well-prepared before the interview day can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle any questions that come your way. Here are some tips for preparing for an IT infrastructure engineering job interview:

Research the company and the job description to get a better understanding of what to expect
Brush up on your technical skills, particularly in networking, security, and virtualization
Practice your answers to some commonly asked interview questions
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer to show your interest in the job and the company
Dress professionally, arrive on time, and bring all the necessary documents.

Acing an IT infrastructure engineering job interview requires adequate preparation, a positive attitude, and the ability to showcase your technical and soft skills effectively. By following the tips outlined above, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a successful job interview and landing your dream job.

Common Career Paths for IT Infrastructure Engineers

As an IT infrastructure engineer, there are several career paths that you can take to advance your career. Some of the common career progression paths for IT infrastructure engineers include:

1. Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer

The first logical step in career progression for an IT infrastructure engineer is to move up to a senior IT infrastructure engineer role. In this role, you will be responsible for managing a team of IT infrastructure engineers and overseeing the design, installation, and maintenance of complex IT infrastructures. You will also be required to provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.

2. IT Infrastructure Architect

Another popular career path for IT infrastructure engineers is to transition to an IT infrastructure architect role. In this position, you will be responsible for designing and implementing large-scale IT infrastructure solutions. You will need to have extensive knowledge of various IT infrastructure components and systems, as well as experience in enterprise architecture and project management.

3. Cloud Engineer

With the rise of cloud computing, many IT infrastructure engineers are choosing to specialize in cloud computing. As a cloud engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing cloud-based IT infrastructures. You will need to have a deep understanding of cloud computing principles and technologies, as well as experience in cloud deployment, configuration, and management.

4. Network Administrator

Another popular career path for IT infrastructure engineers is to become a network administrator. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the network infrastructure of an organization. You will need to have a deep understanding of network protocols and technologies, as well as experience in network design, installation, and maintenance.

5. IT Security Specialist

Finally, another career path for IT infrastructure engineers is to become an IT security specialist. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the security of an organization’s IT infrastructure. You will need to have a deep understanding of IT security principles and technologies, as well as experience in implementing and managing security solutions.

As an IT infrastructure engineer, there are several career paths that you can take to advance your career. Whether you choose to specialize in cloud computing, network administration, IT security, or become a senior IT infrastructure engineer or IT infrastructure architect, each of these career paths offers unique opportunities for growth and advancement.

IT Infrastructure Engineer: Job Description & Skills in 2024