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Cisco Network Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Network Engineer to design, implement, maintain, and optimize ... Install, configure, and maintain Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and other enterprise ...

Network Engineer II Department: Managed Services Reports To: Managed Services Support Desk Manager ... Experience with deployment and support of CISCO and Meraki equipment. * CCNA/CCNP Certifications

Network Engineer II Department: Managed Services Reports To: Managed Services Support Desk Manager ... Experience with deployment and support of CISCO and Meraki equipment. * CCNA/CCNP Certifications

Network Engineer II Department: Managed Services Reports To: Managed Services Support Desk Manager ... Experience with deployment and support of CISCO and Meraki equipment. * CCNA/CCNP Certifications

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Cisco Network Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

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How much do cisco network engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cisco network engineer in Iowa is $50.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.30 and $57.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Cisco Network Engineers face when deploying new network solutions, and how can they be addressed?

Cisco Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new hardware with existing infrastructure, ensuring minimal downtime during migrations, and managing compatibility between different Cisco devices and software versions. These challenges can be addressed by thorough planning, leveraging Cisco's documentation and design guides, and conducting lab-based testing before live deployment. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as security and systems administrators, is crucial to ensure seamless integration and to proactively identify potential issues.

What is the salary of a Cisco network engineer?

The salary of a Cisco network engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications like CCNA or CCNP, and geographic location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries.

What is the difference between Cisco Network Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectCisco Network EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, Cisco-specific certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco certifications (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot Cisco networksMaintain and support existing network infrastructure
ResponsibilitiesNetwork design, Cisco device configuration, troubleshootingNetwork monitoring, user support, routine maintenance

While both roles involve network management, Cisco Network Engineers focus on designing and configuring Cisco-specific networks, often requiring advanced certifications. Network Administrators handle day-to-day network support and maintenance, with a broader scope that may include various vendors. Both roles are essential in maintaining robust network infrastructure but differ in scope and specialization.

What Does a Cisco Network Engineer Do?

A Cisco network engineer oversees hardware and software used to run an organization’s data network using the Cisco suite of products. As a Cisco network engineer, your responsibilities and duties include developing and building new data networks, monitoring and troubleshooting the system for issues, and providing technical support for users. Cisco network engineers usually serve on a team of information technology professionals and coordinate with various departments to discern the current and future needs of the company regarding data networks. They analyze how the system is working to ensure it is meeting, and will continue to meet, the needs of the business.

What are Cisco Network Engineers?

Cisco Network Engineers are IT professionals who design, implement, and manage network solutions using Cisco technologies and products. They are responsible for configuring routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices to ensure secure and efficient data communication within organizations. These engineers often hold certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), demonstrating expertise in Cisco networking protocols and best practices. Their work is crucial for maintaining reliable and scalable network infrastructures.

Is IT hard to get hired by Cisco?

Getting hired as a Cisco Network Engineer can be competitive, often requiring relevant certifications such as CCNA or CCNP, hands-on experience, and strong technical skills. Employers look for candidates with a solid understanding of networking protocols, Cisco hardware, and troubleshooting abilities, which may involve passing technical interviews and assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cisco Network Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cisco Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking concepts, TCP/IP protocols, and experience with Cisco hardware, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field and Cisco certifications such as CCNA or CCNP. Proficiency with Cisco IOS, network monitoring tools, and configuration management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in troubleshooting and collaborating with IT teams. These skills ensure network reliability, security, and optimal performance, which are critical for organizational operations.

How much do network engineers make at Cisco?

Network engineers at Cisco typically earn an average salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Cisco network engineers often work with Cisco-specific tools and protocols, and advanced certifications like CCNP or CCIE can lead to higher compensation.

Are network engineers still in demand?

Network engineers are currently in demand due to ongoing growth in IT infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity needs. They typically require skills in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP, which remain valuable in the job market.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cisco Network Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,334 per year, or $50.2 per hour.
Network Engineer

Network Engineer

innovitusa

Des Moines, IA

Contractor

Posted 15 hours ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Network Engineer to design, implement, maintain, and optimize enterprise network infrastructure across on-premises and cloud environments. The ideal candidate will have expertise in routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs, wireless networking, network security, SD-WAN, cloud networking, and troubleshooting complex enterprise networks. This role requires collaboration with infrastructure, security, cloud, and application teams to ensure highly available, secure, and scalable network environments.

Responsibilities
  • Design, implement, configure, and support enterprise LAN, WAN, WLAN, and Data Center network infrastructure.
  • Install, configure, and maintain Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and other enterprise networking devices.
  • Configure and troubleshoot Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching and routing protocols.
  • Implement and support routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, RIP, and static routing.
  • Configure VLANs, STP, EtherChannel, HSRP, VRRP, GLBP, and network redundancy solutions.
  • Design and maintain SD-WAN solutions using Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela), Meraki, Versa, or VMware VeloCloud.
  • Configure and support enterprise firewall platforms including Palo Alto, Cisco ASA/Firepower, Check Point, and Fortinet.
  • Implement VPN solutions including IPSec, SSL VPN, Site-to-Site VPN, and Remote Access VPN.
  • Manage wireless infrastructure using Cisco Wireless Controllers, Aruba, and Meraki Access Points.
  • Perform network performance monitoring, capacity planning, traffic analysis, and optimization.
  • Configure enterprise DNS, DHCP, NAT, QoS, Load Balancers, and network segmentation.
  • Support cloud networking across AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
  • Implement network security policies, ACLs, Zero Trust principles, and Network Access Control (NAC).
  • Utilize network monitoring tools such as SolarWinds, PRTG, Wireshark, Cisco Prime, ThousandEyes, and NetBrain.
  • Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot complex network outages and performance issues.
  • Collaborate with cybersecurity, infrastructure, cloud, and application teams during project implementation.
  • Develop technical documentation including network diagrams, architecture documents, operational procedures, and disaster recovery plans.
  • Participate in change management, maintenance windows, upgrades, and migration activities.
  • Ensure compliance with enterprise security policies, industry standards, and networking best practices.
  • Support Agile project delivery and mentor junior network engineers.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or related field.
  • 9+ years of enterprise Network Engineering experience.
  • Strong experience with Cisco enterprise networking technologies.
  • Expertise in routing and switching concepts.
  • Hands-on experience with BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP, HSRP, VRRP, and QoS.
  • Experience configuring Palo Alto, Cisco ASA, Fortinet, or Check Point firewalls.
  • Experience with SD-WAN implementation and administration.
  • Experience with VPN technologies and enterprise network security.
  • Experience supporting cloud networking in AWS, Azure, or GCP.
  • Knowledge of IPv4, IPv6, DNS, DHCP, NAT, TCP/IP, and MPLS.
  • Experience with network monitoring and troubleshooting tools.
  • Familiarity with scripting using Python, PowerShell, or Bash for network automation.
  • Experience with Cisco DNA Center, Cisco ISE, and network automation is preferred.
  • Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and documentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP Enterprise)
  • Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
  • Cisco Certified DevNet Professional
  • Palo Alto PCNSE
  • Fortinet NSE Certification
  • AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
  • Microsoft Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700)
  • Juniper JNCIP
  • Experience with Cisco ACI
  • Experience with Ansible, Terraform, or Python-based network automation
  • Knowledge of Zero Trust Architecture and SASE