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Computer Networking Jobs in Palmdale, CA (NOW HIRING)

Software Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

Fundamental understanding of computer networking concepts. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a ...

Fundamental understanding of computer networking concepts. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a ...

New

Experience with serial communications, software test, and computer networking * Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities * Ability to take initiative, prioritize tasking, and coordinate with ...

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Computer Networking information

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How much do computer networking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer networking in Palmdale, CA is $30.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a career in computer networking?

A career in computer networking involves designing, implementing, managing, and maintaining computer networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the internet infrastructure. Professionals in this field often work with network hardware, protocols, and security measures, and may hold certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ to demonstrate their skills. The role typically requires strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of network configurations and troubleshooting tools.

What is the salary of computer networking?

The salary for computer networking professionals varies based on experience, location, and certifications, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually in the United States. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced network administrators or engineers can earn higher salaries, especially with skills in Cisco or Cisco certifications and knowledge of network security and infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Networking professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Computer Networking, you need a solid understanding of network protocols, troubleshooting, and infrastructure, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco routers and switches, network monitoring software, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in diagnosing issues and collaborating with team members. These skills are crucial to ensure reliable, secure, and efficient network operations that support organizational needs.

What jobs can you do with networking?

With a background in computer networking, you can pursue roles such as network administrator, network engineer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, or network technician. These jobs typically require knowledge of networking protocols, hardware, and security tools, and often benefit from certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+.

What is the highest paying networking job?

The highest paying networking jobs typically include roles such as Network Architect and Chief Network Officer, with salaries often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require advanced skills in network design, security, and management, along with relevant certifications like Cisco CCIE or Cisco CCNP. Experience and leadership responsibilities significantly influence compensation in these roles.

What is computer networking?

Computer networking refers to the practice of connecting computers and other devices together so they can communicate and share resources, such as files, printers, and internet access. This can involve local networks within a single building (LANs) or larger networks that span cities or even countries (WANs). Networking relies on hardware like routers and switches, as well as software protocols that ensure reliable communication and data transfer. It is essential for businesses, organizations, and individuals to facilitate collaboration, access information, and use shared services efficiently.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Computer Networking?

The primary qualifications for a computer networking job are a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and several years of experience as a network administrator. Employers tend to prefer applicants who have a master's degree and intermediate- to expert-level skills with firewall and server configuration. Fulfilling the duties of a computer networking job requires familiarity with a wide range of network hardware and software, excellent technical problem-solving skills, and an understanding of network traffic analysis techniques. Some computer networking jobs work with sensitive material, so employers may ask you to obtain a federal security clearance. Pursuing additional education or certifications, such as an electrical engineering degree, may help you gain a competitive advantage or advance in this career.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in computer networking roles, and how can they be addressed?

Computer networking professionals often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex connectivity issues, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring network security against emerging threats. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong problem-solving skills, staying current with industry certifications and ongoing training, and collaborating closely with IT security and support teams. Regularly participating in knowledge-sharing sessions within the organization can also help professionals stay informed about best practices and new tools.

What is the difference between Computer Networking vs Network Administration?

AspectComputer NetworkingNetwork Administration
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting networksManaging and maintaining existing networks
Job FocusNetwork infrastructure setup and optimizationNetwork monitoring, user support, and issue resolution
Industry UsageIT and telecommunications companiesOrganizations with large IT networks

Computer Networking involves designing and implementing network systems, while Network Administration focuses on managing and maintaining those networks. Both roles require similar certifications and often overlap, but networking emphasizes setup and architecture, whereas administration centers on ongoing support and troubleshooting.

What job categories do people searching Computer Networking jobs in Palmdale, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Networking jobs in Palmdale, CA are:
What cities near Palmdale, CA are hiring for Computer Networking jobs? Cities near Palmdale, CA with the most Computer Networking job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Networking job openings in Palmdale, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,166 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Scientific Networking Research Associate

Scientific Networking Research Associate

Caltech

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
The Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) is one of four experiments at CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Geneva, Switzerland. The CMS collaboration, numbering over 3,000 physicists and engineers, makes use of a worldwide computing grid for the processing and analysis of the data taken by the experiment. The Caltech group is one of the leading US institutes in CMS, with an excellent track record and reputation both in particle physics research and in state-of-the-art research and development for scientific computing and networking. Caltech hosts one of seven US-based "Tier2" High Performance computing facilities in CMS, which are part of this grid. The Caltech HEP group also manages testbed clusters as part of testing new technologies and network/computing R&D projects.
The successful candidate will join the Caltech High Energy Physics group and the worldwide CMS community, and will work on networking R&D projects in association with Caltech HEP, Fermilab, ESNet, Internet2, the CENICregional network, CERN and campus network engineers in state of the art network and distributed system developments to evaluate and implement new networking technologies to ensure fast and reliable data transfers to/from the computing clusters and new data access methods. The successful candidate will participate in state-of-the-art developments, working with other CMS sites and the global network community, aimed at making the experiment's data distribution and analysis more efficient through the use of advanced network monitoring, caching and high throughput data transport tools. The candidate will participate in the ongoing development of a next generation system that interfaces intelligent networks to the data management systems of CMS and the other LHC experiments, in order to meet the experiments' rising needs while also accommodating the network traffic of other programs and the worldwide academic and research community. As part of a small but skilled team, he/she will also assist in maintaining and advancing Caltech HEP's Software Defined Networking (SDN) Testbed computing facility dedicated to network R&D developments.
We are looking for an eager self-motivated person who can quickly learn to deal with both hardware and software cluster issues as well as grid issues as needed, who will enjoy working with a dedicated team of scientists and engineers engaged in frontier physics research, along with cutting edge technologies and systems needed to support this program.
This is anticipated to be a six-month temporary assignment.
Essential Job Duties
System management duties for the SDN computing clusters at Caltech. This includes:
  • Hardware installation, OS installation, software installation and updates, monitoring, security set up, and troubleshooting.
  • Maintaining SDN Kubernetes cluster with storage at Caltech.
  • Implement and test networking protocols, automation tools and simulation environments.
  • OS installation, software installation and updates, monitoring, security set up, and troubleshooting.
  • Participate (usually by videoconference) in biweekly CMS computing meetings where the status of the Caltech CMS Tier2 computing resources are discussed.
  • Work with members of the HEP group and keep abreast of emerging computing, networking, storage technologies and evaluate their suitability for the computing clusters.
  • Actively participate in the design and implementation of an integrated infrastructure supporting research and development of state of the art network and server infrastructure and techniques.
  • Participate in regular technical and strategy meetings in association with these developments.
  • Work with the Open Science Grid (OSG) and local campus security teams to implement reasonable security safeguards and respond to any security threats.
  • Collaborating with ESNET on deploying SENSE/Rucio Testbed on US-CMS Tier1/Tie2 sites.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree with related work experience.
  • Solid understanding of TCP/IP, OSI layers and networking protocols and networking fundamentals.
  • Knowledge and hands on experience in computer networking, including switches and routers, routing and switching protocols, including BGP and OSPF., network interfaces and distributed system and network.
  • Analyze network performance, identify bottlenecks, and develop solutions for scalability and resilience which includes working knowledge of tools like iperf3, tcpdump, Wireshark, netcat and perfSONAR
  • Knowledge and hands-on experience with open-source projects. Experience in Unix/Linux operating systems and hands-on experience with operating, monitoring, and managing large-scale computing, networking, and storage infrastructures.
  • Sound knowledge on GitHub/GitLab.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills including developing, writing, and reviewing technical documents.
  • Excellent team player, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously and set priorities.
  • Ability to work across institutions and communicate effectively with both operational and research teams
  • Some travel in-state and nationally may be required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree with at least 2 years of work experience.Operational experience of production network operations.Ability to learn any network operating system including but not limited to Arista, Dell, Cisco, P4, and Sonic, and to adapt to new network tools, methods and devices as needed.
  • Experience with management and automation tools such as Ansible, Proxmox etc.
  • Knowledge on virtualization such as network, storage.
  • Solid knowledge and hands-on experience on software-defined networking (SDN)
  • Knowledge and experience with container networking as Kubernetes and Docker.
  • Hands-on experience with network monitoring systems (e.g., Grafana, Prometheus), packet analysis, and performance tuning
  • Proficiency in shell scripting and Python.
  • Familiarity with R&D networking environments and wide-area performance challenges.
Required Documents
  • Resume.

Hiring Range
$80,000 - $95,000 Per Year
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Disability Accommodations
Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.
If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.