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Computer Network Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Network engineering, problem management, and performance management experience. * Understanding of basic telecommunications and information technology terms and technology. * Knowledge of data and ...

The Implementations Network Engineer will perform installation oversight, configuration, testing, monitoring, servicing of network equipment and activation of networks for projects supporting the ...

... Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or related field and four ... Coaching and mentoring new Network team members. #LI-DNI

The Network Engineer will perform sustainment, maintenance, Problem and Change management services to help ensure secure, reliable, and uninterrupted availability of the Department of Defense IP ...

Work directly with supported customers and engineers across other NOCs to ensure maximum network availability to minimize or eliminate mission and operational impact. * Proactively monitor network ...

Network Engineer Location: Chicago, IL - Hybrid (1-2x a month onsite) Employment Type: Short-Term ... Computer Science or a related field, or 8+ years of relevant experience with equivalent ...

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

Execute large, network-wide engineering projects. * Design, test, and implement new network ... Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or related field and four ...

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

... Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or related field and four ... Designing and implementing complex networks using advanced network engineering techniques in a ...

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience. * 3+ years of experience in network engineering, network ...

New

Required Qualifications: * 6-8 years of experience (only if with degree requirement in Computer Science or related, no degree = 8-10 yrs proven exp) as a Network Engineer in a Cisco environment.

IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Implementations Network Engineer will perform installation oversight, configuration, testing ... IND1 Computer World Services is an affirmative action and equal employment opportunity employer.

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Computer Network Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$105.7K

$153.1K

How much do computer network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer network engineer in Illinois is $105,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,200.00 and $129,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer network engineer?

To thrive as a Computer Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of network protocols, system architecture, and troubleshooting, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with networking tools, hardware, firewalls, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with teams and resolving issues quickly. These competencies ensure reliable, secure network infrastructures that support organizational productivity and data integrity.

What are the most common challenges computer network engineers face when managing large-scale networks?

Computer Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring network security, minimizing downtime, and efficiently troubleshooting connectivity issues in large-scale environments. Managing complex configurations, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, and integrating new hardware or software can also be demanding. Effective collaboration with IT teams, clear documentation, and continuous learning are essential to successfully address these challenges and maintain robust network performance.

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

AspectComputer Network EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigns and plans network infrastructure, often in project-based rolesMaintains and manages existing networks, handles daily operations
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, large corporations, consulting firmsMost organizations with IT infrastructure, including small to large businesses

While both roles involve networking skills, Computer Network Engineers focus on designing and implementing network solutions, whereas Network Administrators manage and maintain those networks on a daily basis. The roles often overlap, but their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are computer network engineers still in demand?

Computer network engineers are in high demand due to the increasing reliance on network infrastructure, cybersecurity needs, and cloud computing. They typically require skills in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco or CompTIA, making them valuable in various industries including technology, finance, and healthcare.

Is computer network engineering well paid?

Computer network engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with certifications like Cisco or CompTIA can command higher wages, especially in high-demand areas or specialized environments. Overall, it is considered a well-paying IT career path.

What does a computer network engineer do?

A computer network engineer designs, implements, and maintains computer networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They troubleshoot network issues, configure hardware and software, and ensure network security using tools like firewalls and VPNs. Certification such as Cisco's CCNA is often required, and they typically work in office environments with regular hours.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Network Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Computer Network Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Computer Network Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Computer Network Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Network Engineer jobs in IL?

For Computer Network Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Computer Network Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,662 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Computer Network Architect

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site

Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$59K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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 2-4 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with less than 2 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 $59,150.00 - $106,925.00

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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