Technology

Network Engineer

Based on 37 assessments · 1 from real users

42% Moderate risk

Average realistic automation risk across all Network Engineer profiles in the dataset.

Raw potential
77%
Realistic risk
42%
Research benchmark ?
55%

Raw potential = I/O automation ceiling. Realistic risk = adjusted for informal knowledge and social context. Research benchmark: Eloundou et al. (2023)

Distribution across 37 profiles. Middle half of Network Engineers score between 38% and 46%.

0% 50% 100%
p10 · 32%
50% · p90
On-screen work 72%

Done entirely on a computer. High AI exposure — these tasks are already in the automation zone.

In-person + screen 23%

Physical sensing, digital output — e.g. interviewing someone then writing a report. Partially protected.

Computer + action 0%

Computer input, real-world output — needs someone to act on it, not just software.

Fully in-person 5%

No computer required. Furthest from automation — the strongest human advantage.

3 synthetic profiles for a Network Engineer, ordered by automation exposure. Tab between them to see how task mix drives the score difference.

Task Time Type Exposure
Collaborating with other IT teams (e.g., cybersecurity, cloud, systems) to integrate network solutions and resolve cross-functional issues
deep expertise
28% AD 16%
Configuring and deploying network devices (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers) using command-line interfaces or management tools
20% DD 68%
Implementing and managing network security measures (e.g., VPNs, ACLs, intrusion detection/prevention systems, encryption protocols)
deep expertise social element
17% DD 20%
Designing and planning network infrastructure (e.g., LAN, WAN, cloud networks) based on organizational needs, including selecting hardware, software, and protocols
deep expertise social element
15% AD 12%
Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting issues (e.g., latency, packet loss, connectivity problems) using tools like Wireshark, SolarWinds, or Nagios
14% DD 68%
Documenting network configurations, changes, and procedures for future reference and compliance purposes
1% DD 71%
Providing technical support and guidance to end-users or junior staff for network-related issues or questions
deep expertise social element
1% AA 6%

Work as a Network Engineer? Map your specific role.

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