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Computer Network Specialist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Network Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overseeing IT department operations while coordinating with IT specialists across local and remote ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field. Expertise in ...

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering or related field. • ... Specialist / Solution Expert) • CCNP/CCIE (routing, data center, security or service provider ...

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering or related field. Advanced knowledge of switches ... F5 (F5 Technology Specialist / Solution Expert) CCNP/CCIE (routing, data center, security or ...

... Servers/Networking, Infrastructure, ERP Practices and QA Services. Engineering services include Data Translation, CAD/CAM/CAE, Process & Product Engineering, Prototyping, and Testing/Validation ...

Help Desk Specialist

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

We are seeking a Help Desk Specialist to be the front-line support position dedicated to the quick ... Minimum of 1+ years of computer /networking experience. * High School education or GED and Post ...

Network Engineer Senior

Lincolnshire, IL

$109K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Act as a Level 3 support specialist to quickly diagnose and resolve complex network, routing, and ... Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science ...

Home Care Sales Specialist

Glenview, IL · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Marketing Specialist is responsible for building relationships with referral sources, healt ... networking experience and sales experience required. * Prior community involvement. * Computer ...

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Computer Network Specialist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.7K

$82.6K

$119.1K

How much do computer network specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer network specialist in Chicago, IL is $82,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $96,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer network specialist?

Computer Network Specialists are IT professionals who design, implement, manage, and troubleshoot computer networks within an organization. They ensure that network systems, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets, operate efficiently and securely. Their work includes installing network hardware and software, monitoring system performance, and resolving connectivity issues. They often collaborate with other IT staff to maintain network security and optimize performance.

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

To thrive as a Computer Network Specialist, you need a deep understanding of network protocols, troubleshooting, and security concepts, often backed by a degree in computer science or information technology. Familiarity with tools like Cisco routers and switches, network monitoring software, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help specialists excel in diagnosing and resolving complex network issues. These skills ensure reliable, secure, and efficient network operations that are critical for organizational productivity.

What are some common challenges computer network specialists face when managing complex networks?

Computer Network Specialists often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unpredictable connectivity issues, ensuring network security amidst evolving cyber threats, and maintaining minimal downtime during upgrades or repairs. Balancing the needs of multiple users and devices can also be complex, especially in large organizations with demanding service level agreements. Proactive monitoring and strong communication skills are essential, as specialists frequently collaborate with IT teams and end-users to resolve issues efficiently and implement new technologies.

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

AspectComputer Network SpecialistNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNACompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, troubleshooting networksManaging, maintaining, monitoring existing networks
Employer & Industry UsageIT firms, corporations, government agenciesBusinesses, organizations, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with computer networks and require similar certifications, a Computer Network Specialist primarily focuses on designing and implementing network solutions. In contrast, a Network Administrator manages and maintains existing networks to ensure smooth operation. Both roles are vital in IT environments and often overlap, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Is IT hard to be a computer network specialist?

Becoming a computer network specialist requires a strong understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and security, often gained through certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+. The role involves troubleshooting, configuring hardware and software, and staying updated with evolving technology, which can be challenging but manageable with proper training and experience.

Is computer networking still in demand?

Computer Network Specialists are in high demand due to the ongoing need for secure and reliable network infrastructure in organizations. Skills in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco or CompTIA are valuable as businesses increasingly rely on cloud services and cybersecurity measures.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Network Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Computer Network Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Network Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Computer Network Specialist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,573 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Computer Science Content Specialist

Chicago Public Schools

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Computer Science Content Specialist

Reporting to the Computer Science Manager, the primary objective of the Computer Science Content Specialist will be to ensure that the support provided by the Office of Teaching and Learning improves the student experience and outcomes aligned to the CPS Instructional Core Vision. Content Specialists will be assigned to grade bands (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12), with capacity for one Specialist to act as a lead for each grade band. This position will work as part of a team of hands-on school support personnel to help multiple stakeholders, including school, district and network leaders, to implement high-quality sustainable Computer Science education.

The Computer Science Content Specialist will collaborate closely with other Computer Science Content Specialists to ensure a coherent vision for PreK-12 Computer Science teaching and learning is scaled throughout CPS.

This is a full-time, exempt position that will be paid for time worked on a salary basis.

The Computer Science Content Specialist will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:

  • Design and facilitate professional learning for a variety of internal and external stakeholders that deepens their understanding of the CPS Instructional Core and content-specific practices to support it
  • Ensure professional learning for CPS Network Chiefs/Deputies, Instructional Support Leaders (ISLs), school leaders, Central Office instructional leaders, external partners, and other educators successfully achieves the following:
    • Leading educators in developing, implementing, and refining network-specific professional learning plans that ensure district-wide learning is prioritized and supported within each network
    • Building capacity in supporting school leaders and teacher leaders with content-specific learning
    • Preparing school leaders and teacher leaders to lead school-based learning through coaching, team meetings, workshops, etc.
  • Ensure professional learning for teacher leaders successfully achieves the following:
    • Supporting teacher leaders in effectively contributing to their schools' Instructional Leadership Teams
    • Building their capacity to lead their colleagues in content-specific learning and reflection grounded in student learning
  • Design and facilitate professional learning for all Computer Science Curricula including:
    • Support educators in understanding the philosophy, design principles, components, and systems embedded within the curriculum
    • Facilitate unit-specific launch sessions to prepare teachers to successfully implement each unit of instruction
    • Provide unit-specific PLC materials to engage teachers in reflection and collaborative problem-solving around Computer Science curriculum implementation
  • Contribute to the continuous development of Skyline through the completion of tasks including:
    • Evaluating professional learning outcome data to inform future professional learning needs
    • Identifying, documenting, and offering solutions around barriers to successful implementation through common progress monitoring systems
    • Participating in centralized feedback structures to inform curriculum revision
  • Contribute to content-specific guidance, resources, and policy to ensure a consistent instructional vision is promoted within and across content areas
  • Collaborate with other department Content Specialists to support shared initiatives
  • Maintain content area expertise by staying abreast of current research, practices, and innovation in the field
  • Other duties as assigned

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Computer Science Content Specialist must possess the following qualifications:

Education Required:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required. Focus in a relevant field of study preferred.
  • One of the following teaching credentials issued by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is required:
    • Valid teaching certificate/Professional Educator License (PEL) with appropriate grade level and/or content level endorsement. (Computer Science, LBSI, ESL, or Bilingual Endorsement, preferred.)
    • Valid Career and Technical Education (CTE) Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) with appropriate content endorsement (ex: Computer Science, Computer Programming).
    • Valid out-of-state, reciprocal license will be considered but must obtain ISBE licensure within 6 months of hire
  • Master's degree in a relevant field of study preferred

Experience Required:

  • Minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in education, including the following, is required:
    • Minimum of five (5) years of classroom teaching experience, including computer science instruction; three (3) years of teaching experience will be considered in combination with two (2) years of experience in a comparable content specialist role
    • Minimum of three (3) years of teacher leadership experience, such as leading school teams in the development of curriculum and assessments, analyzing student performance data, etc.
    • Minimum of three (3) years working with adult learners, including creating, organizing, and facilitating professional learning experiences to meet the needs of participants.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Expertise in planning, designing, facilitating, and evaluating professional learning
  • Deep knowledge of Computer Science teaching and learning instructional best practices
  • Exceptional organizational skills; ability to effectively manage several work streams simultaneously
  • Capable of building and sustaining positive, productive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; comfortable collaborating and communicating across a diverse range of audiences, including network teams, principals, teachers, and support staff
  • Commitment to CPS Instructional Core Vision
  • Ability to build consensus and leverage expertise with educators across the district
  • Excellent technology skills (Google Suite)

Conditions of Employment:

  • As a condition of employment with the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), employees are required to:
    • Establish/Maintain Chicago Residency - Employees are required to live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within six months of their CPS hire date and maintain residency throughout their employment with the district. The Chicago residency requirement does not apply to temporary/part-time positions, however, all CPS employees must be residents of Illinois.

Benefits: Health & Wellness: Your Care, Your Choice CPS is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage to our employees and their eligible dependents. You'll have access to a variety of choices to best fit your needs:

  • Medical Plan Options
  • Pharmacy
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Behavioral Health & EAP
  • Employee Wellness Program

Financial Security: Planning for Today and Tomorrow We understand the importance of financial stability, which is why CPS offers strong retirement and savings options:

  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Pension Plans
  • Supplemental Retirement Plans (403(b) and 457(b))
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Spot Pet Insurance

Work-Life Balance: Supporting Your Personal and Professional Life CPS values the well-being of its employees and offers competitive paid time off policies:

  • Paid Leave
  • Sick Leave
  • Vacation Days
  • Parental Leaves
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Religious Holidays
  • Leaves

Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.