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Computer Architect Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Perform network management system design, develop Methods of Procedure, analysis, testing and/or modifications of architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved ...

Perform network management system design, develop Methods of Procedure, analysis, testing and/or modifications of architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved ...

Work directly with customers, solution architects and vendor SMEs to implement changes and also identify, analyze, and resolve issue. * Manage Service Orders, in accordance with Change Management ...

Knowledge of networking architecture, evaluating, and recommending new technologies to enhance current capabilities and performing needs assessments. * Knowledge of data and voice network design ...

IP/Transport architecture experience * Solarwinds and JIRA experience * Telco NOC, inside or outside plant experience. * Experience with MS Office suite, i.e. Outlook, Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint ...

IP/Transport architecture experience * Solarwinds and JIRA experience * Telco NOC, inside or outside plant experience. * Experience with MS Office suite, i.e. Outlook, Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint ...

Description Our customer, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), provides, operates, and assures command and control of the Defense Information System Network (DISN) services to its customers ...

ARCHITECT

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

About the Position: The selectee performs a variety of Architectural duties related to the ... computer aided design and drafting (CADD) programs to perform complex design and drafting ...

Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $85.50/hr

Solution Architect Location: US Office - Chicago Years of Experience: 15-30 Years Job Summary: We ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * Relevant ...

Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $85.50/hr

Solution Architect Location: US Office - Chicago Years of Experience: 15-30 Years Job Summary: We ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * Relevant ...

In this role, the GIS Architect will join CMAP's growing Technology, Data & Applications team under ... A bachelor's degree in geography, urban planning, computer science, information systems or related ...

ARCHITECT

Rock Island, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $118K/yr

Utilize computer aided design and drafting systems and three-dimensional building information ... Registered Architect License required. A copy of your license must be attached in the documents ...

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Computer Architect information

See Illinois salary details

$154.6K

$169.6K

$183.1K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Illinois is $169,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $162,300.00 and $176,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer architect?

Computer Architects are professionals who design and develop the structure and functionality of computer systems, including processors, memory systems, and data pathways. They focus on optimizing performance, energy efficiency, and scalability to meet specific computing needs. Computer Architects often work closely with hardware and software engineers to create innovative computing solutions for industries ranging from consumer electronics to high-performance computing. Their work is critical in shaping the capabilities and efficiency of modern computers.

What does a computer architect do?

A computer architect designs software to enhance a company’s network performance. As a computer architect, you design software, write algorithms, and engineer new systems to improve performance and function goals. Your responsibilities include maintaining data and putting together new components to help the business systems run more efficiently based on the company’s needs. Computer architects may also work with computer hardware, researching, developing, designing, and testing computer equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Architect, you need deep knowledge of computer hardware design, digital logic, and computer organization, usually backed by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, simulation tools, and performance analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for designing efficient, high-performance computing systems that meet organizational and technological needs.

How does a computer architect typically collaborate with hardware and software teams during a project?

Computer Architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between hardware and software teams to ensure system designs are both innovative and practical. They regularly participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss requirements, performance goals, and potential design trade-offs. By working closely with hardware engineers, they help define processor specifications and system layouts, while collaborating with software developers to optimize code for the architecture. This collaborative environment allows Computer Architects to influence both the physical hardware and the software that runs on it, ensuring overall system efficiency.

What is the difference between Computer Architect vs Computer Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer ArchitectComputer Hardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in computer science, computer engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning computer systems, often in R&D or design firmsDeveloping, testing, and manufacturing hardware components in labs or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed in designing new computer architectures for CPUs, GPUs, and systemsUsed in creating physical hardware components like circuit boards, processors, and peripherals

Computer Architects focus on designing the overall structure and architecture of computer systems, while Computer Hardware Engineers work on developing and testing the physical hardware components. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their focus areas within the computing industry.

Are computer architects in demand?

Computer architects are in high demand due to the growing need for advanced hardware design, system optimization, and integration of emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing. They typically require strong knowledge of hardware description languages, system architecture, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in technology companies, research institutions, and manufacturing sectors.

How much do computer architects make?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in digital design, knowledge of hardware description languages, and certifications can influence earning potential.

What degree do you need for computer architect?

A computer architect typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with strong knowledge of hardware design, systems architecture, and experience with programming and hardware description languages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Architect jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Computer Architect jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Architect jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Computer Architect jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Computer Architect job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,579 per year, or $81.5 per hour.

Computer Network Architect

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site


Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 499 rated business services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$73K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Job description

Description

Our customer, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA-GLOBAL) at Scott AFB, il provides, operates, and assures command and control of the Defense Information System Network (DISN) services to its customers, the department of Defense (DoD) and national security organizations. This position directly supports the DISA-provided capabilities and services.

The Leidos Digital Modernization Sector/Global Solutions Management-Operations II (GSMO-II) contract has an opening for a Transport Network Engineer.  The Transport Network Engineer will perform sustainment, maintenance, Problem and Change management services to help ensure secure, reliable, and uninterrupted availability of the Department of Defense networks.

Responsible for performing the following duties:
Network design and engineering

  • Perform network management system design, develop Methods of Procedure, analysis, testing and/or modifications of architecture in support of software/hardware technical refresh and upgrades approved by the Engineering Review Board.
  • Implement new network hardware (shelves, cards) on operational nodes.
  • Deploy network changes - monitor for any impacts to customer traffic using provided expectations of traffic behavior, lessons learned, and customer reporting. 
  • Recommend to manager best practices for the operation and maintenance of the network.
  • Provide ad-hoc engineering support, statistics/data gathering, modeling, creating/updating flowcharts and providing recommendations to determine the most efficient configuration of the network based on Engineering documents and experience.
     

Provide Engineering Incident Management Escalation Support

  • Perform fault isolation, analysis, and troubleshooting across various Transport platforms including SONET Optical/Fiber Transport (ODXC/MSPP), Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), and cryptographic systems.  Engage with other Engineers (Transport, IP and Unified Capabilities), vendors, and customers to determine Root Cause Analysis
  • Update ServiceNow tickets with accurate documentation
  • Provide situational awareness reporting to customer and management.
  • Provide accuracy in documenting the Mission Support Services (MSS) database to reflect the real time network. 
  • Support Authorized Service Interruption (ASI) Activities to collect site and device data to schedule maintenance windows, coordinating dispatch of technicians, and identifying availability of site personnel. 
  • Interact with Problem Coordinator and Government customer for troubleshooting and resolution of Problem Management candidate tickets.
  • Interact with vendor Technical Assistance Center (TAC) personnel to gather needed data to create hardware replacement order.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Currently possess an active Secret security clearance.
  • Currently possess DoD 8750 certification at IAT level II, Security+ CE or equivalent to meet requirement.
  • Proficient in one or more Transport platforms: CIENA 6500, CIENA Corestream, Cisco NCS2K, CISCO MSPP 15454/15310, SYCAMORE ODXC 16K/9K, XTERA, and other ancillary equipment.
  • Experience analyzing section, line, and path events on Optical networks 
  • Experience with end-to-end system loopback testing and troubleshooting on Transport networks.
  • Exposure to troubleshooting, assessment, root cause analysis, and restoration of Optical networks.
  • Experience working with service providers and/or enterprise Transport systems utilizing CISCO/CIENA devices. 
  • Experience with ports and protocols for DWDM and SONET technologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Equally proficient in Ciena and/or Cisco configuration, and troubleshooting, and design
  • Experience with Power systems and Network Timing
  • Experience with Dense Wavelength Division (DWDM) and Synchronous Optical Networks (SONET)
  • Possess understanding of Physical (Layer 1) and Data Link (Layer 2) network troubleshooting.
  • CIENA 6500 configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience.
  • CISCO 4200 configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience
  • CISCO NCS2K configuration, troubleshooting, and design experience.
  • Crypto configuration, troubleshooting and design experience.
  • Physical cable plant and wiring experience.
  • Excellent project, technical, interpersonal, presentation and problem management skills.
  • Extensive network integration experience for a variety of network protocol standards.
  • Ability to communicate orally, and in writing, detailed technical information on troubleshooting and implementation efforts.
  • Familiarization of DOD regulations and directives.

Required Education and Experience:

Requires BS degree and 4-8 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 2-6 years of prior relevant experience. (Or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.)

GSMO

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:August 17, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $73,450.00 - $132,775.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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