Apprentice Network Cable Installer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Responsibilities

Shape the Future of U.S. Airspace with Peraton

Join Peraton in advancing the safety, efficiency, and modernization of the National Airspace System (NAS) through the FAA's Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS) program. As a trusted partner to the Federal Aviation Administration, we deliver the cutting-edge systems and services that keep our nation's skies safe, secure, and seamlessly connected.

We're seeking forward-thinking professionals who thrive in mission-critical environments and are excited to help transform the future of air traffic management. This is your opportunity to contribute to one of the world's most vital transportation infrastructures-working alongside experts in aviation, engineering, cybersecurity, and systems integration.

At Peraton, you won't just support the mission-you'll help define it.

Network Installer - Make an Impact Where It Matters Most

We are looking for a Network Installer to join our talented and diverse team supporting the FAA. In this role, you'll play a key part in maintaining and enhancing the network infrastructure behind mission-critical aviation systems.

You'll ensure the reliability, performance, and security of IP-based networks that support air traffic operations-gaining valuable experience in federal programs while contributing to highly visible national initiatives.

What You'll Do

• Ensure the uptime, performance, and security of FAA network infrastructure
• Install, configure, and maintain routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless systems
• support SD-WAN solutions across distributed environments
• Install, terminate, and test fiber optic cabling (single-mode and multi-mode)
• Perform fiber testing using OTDR and certification tools
• Monitor systems daily, analyze logs, and respond to incidents
• Troubleshoot network issues across fiber, SD-WAN, and IP layers, escalating as needed
• Support network cutovers, migrations, and failover validation
• Maintain accurate network diagrams, documentation, and configuration records

Why This Role Matters

The FAA is at the heart of aviation safety and innovation. In this role, your work directly supports the systems that enable safe and efficient air travel for millions of passengers every day.

By ensuring network reliability and rapidly resolving issues, you'll play a critical role in maintaining the communications and technologies that keep aircraft moving safely across the nation's airspace.

Travel and Work Location Requirements

This position requires 100% local travel to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) facilities within the assigned region. Candidates must reside in or near one of the locations listed below and be able to travel regularly to multiple FAA sites throughout their designated area as business needs require.

Eligible Regional Locations:

• Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
• Houston, TX
• Kansas City, MO
• Elgin, IL
• Cleveland, OH
• Indianapolis, IN
• Minneapolis, MN
• Memphis, TN

Qualifications

Position Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
• Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of experience (or equivalent combination: Master's 6+, Associate's 10+, HS diploma 12+)
• Proven experience managing and supporting enterprise network environments
• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, and routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP)
• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Juniper, or similar networking technologies
• Experience with TDM-to-IP migrations and modern IP-based networking
• Solid understanding of SD-WAN, fiber optics, and wireless LAN/WAN technologies
• Familiarity with firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and network monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Nagios)
• Ability to read and interpret network diagrams and schematics
• Experience with fiber testing tools (e.g., OTDR)
• Demonstrated leadership and team collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting FAA or National Airspace System (NAS) environments
• Knowledge of federal network standards, compliance, and security frameworks
• Background supporting FAA, DOT, DHS, or DoD programs
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA/JNCIS, BICSI)
• Familiarity with FAA NextGen or air traffic control modernization initiatives
• Experience working on large-scale infrastructure or transformation programs

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME