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What Does an Implementation Engineer Do?

C. Webb
C. Webb

An implementation engineer provides top-level IT support to those who hire him or her. While most companies have a mid-level tech team for routine IT implementation needs, the implementation engineer steps in for the more advanced needs or hard-to-correct issues. In some cases, he or she also supervises a staff of technical-team employees.

Implementation engineers should be well rounded in knowledge. The ability to troubleshoot, analyze, and implement software, networks, and other technical needs are included in their job duties. When necessary, a person in this position works closely with third-party contractors. Duties in this position typically include training the employees of the third-party contractor in software implementation and software use.

Implementation engineers should be well rounded in knowledge.
Implementation engineers should be well rounded in knowledge.

The implementation engineer is expected to stay on top of changing technology. Whether it is newly developed software or a new networking program, if it benefits the company, the engineer is expected to know about it and be able to implement it. Continuing education is a large part of what is expected in this position.

In addition to knowing how to implement and use the software or networking tools, the engineer also should remain knowledgeable about the cost effectiveness of various programs. He or she can then make suggestions to the company and third-party clients about program choices. Finding the best product for the best cost is also something the engineer does on the job.

Implementation engineers are expected to stay on top of changing technology.
Implementation engineers are expected to stay on top of changing technology.

Most implementation engineers are on call at least some weekends and evenings. System crashes that can't be corrected with tech-team efforts are addressed by the engineer. When a system goes down, the engineer is expected to be available to advise tech-team members by phone and in person.

At times, clients of the company will use the implementation engineer. This may mean consultations by telephone. It may also mean the engineer travels to the client's facility to correct system issues. This is typical when the engineer's company sells networking or software systems to its clients.

Travel is a large part of many implementation engineers' job duties. Most engineers hold a bachelor's degree in either computer science or information systems. Courses in network security help prepare students for becoming an implementation engineer.

Discussion Comments

Certlerant

Glasis, there are computer professionals that work as independent contractors.

A small business owner could contract with these professionals on an as-needed or job-by-job basis.

However, since independent contractors usually have several clients and may not be available at all hours, it is probably a good idea for a company with highly technical systems to have at least one person on staff that can respond in an emergency.

Glasis

How can the owner of a small business that relies on rather technical computer systems get IT services without actually having a technical team on staff?

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    • Implementation engineers should be well rounded in knowledge.
      By: michaeljung
      Implementation engineers should be well rounded in knowledge.
    • Implementation engineers are expected to stay on top of changing technology.
      By: imtmphoto
      Implementation engineers are expected to stay on top of changing technology.