As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Network Architect I in Mankato, MN is $75,873 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.
However, a Network Architect I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Network Architect I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Network Architect I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Network Architect I | 0-2 years | $75,856 |
| Network Planning and Project Analyst II | 2-4 years | $93,147 |
| Network Planning and Project Analyst III | 4-7 years | $118,211 |
| Network Planning and Project Analyst IV | 7+ years | $138,475 |
| Network Planning and Project Analyst V | 7-10 years | $159,833 |
What Am I Worth?
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 8.89% |
| Artificial Intelligence | 1.51% |
| OSPF | 1.17% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting
|
$84,219 |
11%
|
|
Prioritization
|
$83,460 |
10%
|
|
Artificial Intelligence
|
$82,702 |
9%
|
|
KPI
|
$81,184 |
7%
|
|
Innovation
|
$80,425 |
6%
|
|
Insight
|
$79,667 |
5%
|
Network Architect I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $84,935. While startup companies pay approximate $71,853.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $71,853 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $75,993 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $82,020 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $84,935 |
For Network Architect I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Network Architect positions in Transportation or MFG Nondurable typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Network Architect I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $91,048 | $44.0 | 20% |
| Financial Services | $91,048 | $44.0 | 20% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $91,048 | $44.0 | 20% |
| Software & Networking | $91,048 | $44.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Network Architect I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Network Architect I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology Data and Storage Capacity Planner | $93,200 | 23% |
| Network Planning and Project Analyst II | $93,190 | 23% |
| SAN Solutions Specialist II | $93,200 | 23% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Network Architect I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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