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Director Network Operations Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We're seeking a Director, Network Engineering to lead a talented team responsible for designing and managing the network foundation that supports critical banking operations. This role is ideal for a ...

We're seeking a Director, Network Engineering to lead a talented team responsible for designing and managing the network foundation that supports critical banking operations. This role is ideal for a ...

We're seeking a Director, Network Engineering to lead a talented team responsible for designing and managing the network foundation that supports critical banking operations. This role is ideal for a ...

IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Direct compilation of records and reports concerning network operations and maintenance * Troubleshoot network performance issues * Analyze network traffic and provide capacity planning solutions

Freedom is proud to be one of the largest, privately held direct mail service providers in the ... We are a family-owned business entering our 40th year in operation and are excited to expand our ...

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Director Network Operations information

See Illinois salary details

$32.9K

$104.3K

$173.9K

How much do director network operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for director network operations in Illinois is $104,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of network operations do?

A Director of Network Operations oversees the management, maintenance, and optimization of an organization's computer networks. They are responsible for ensuring network reliability, security, and performance while leading a team of network engineers and technicians. The role often involves strategic planning, budget management, setting operational policies, and collaborating with other IT leaders to align network infrastructure with business goals. Directors of Network Operations also handle vendor relationships and may be involved in disaster recovery planning and implementation.

What are the main challenges a director of network operations faces when managing large-scale network infrastructures?

One of the primary challenges for a Director of Network Operations is ensuring high network availability and reliability across multiple sites while responding quickly to outages or performance issues. Managing a diverse team of engineers, prioritizing projects, and keeping up with evolving technologies also present ongoing difficulties. Additionally, balancing security requirements with operational efficiency and coordinating with other IT and business units to align network strategies with organizational goals are key aspects of the role. Successful directors proactively implement robust monitoring, clear escalation paths, and continuous process improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of network operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Network Operations, you need expertise in network architecture, management, and security, supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with network monitoring tools, enterprise routing and switching platforms, and certifications such as CCNP or CCIE are typically required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities set exceptional candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring network reliability, driving continuous improvement, and leading teams to support organizational goals.

What is the difference between Director Network Operations vs Network Manager?

AspectDirector Network OperationsNetwork Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire network strategy, large teams, and high-level planningManages daily network operations, troubleshooting, and team supervision
CredentialsTypically requires advanced certifications (e.g., CCNP, CISSP) and extensive experienceOften requires Cisco or CompTIA certifications and relevant experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic, executive-level, cross-departmentalOperational, technical, team-focused
Industry UsageCommon in large enterprises and corporationsFound in organizations of various sizes, more hands-on

The main difference between a Director Network Operations and a Network Manager lies in scope and strategic focus. The Director oversees overall network strategy and large teams, while the Network Manager handles daily operations and technical issues. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but the Director's role is more strategic and leadership-oriented.

How much does a director network operations make?

A director of network operations typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on the industry, company size, and location. They often oversee large teams, manage network infrastructure, and require strong technical and leadership skills, with some roles offering additional performance-based bonuses.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Operations jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Network Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Network Operations jobs in Illinois?

For Director Network Operations jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Network Operations jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Network Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Director Network Operations jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Director Network Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Network Operations job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,345 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Director, Network Engineering

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

We're building a relationship-oriented bank for the modern world. We need talented, passionate professionals who are dedicated to doing what's right for our clients.

At CIBC, we embrace your strengths and your ambitions, so you are empowered at work. Our team members have what they need to make a meaningful impact and are truly valued for who they are and what they contribute.

To learn more about CIBC, please visit CIBC.com

At CIBC, technology leadership is about more than infrastructure, it's about enabling secure, reliable experiences for our clients and teams.

We're seeking a Director, Network Engineering to lead a talented team responsible for designing and managing the network foundation that supports critical banking operations. This role is ideal for a collaborative leader who combines deep technical expertise with a passion for mentorship, partnership, and continuous improvement.

You'll help strengthen network resilience, support modernization, and ensure strong security and compliance practices across the environment.

What you'll be doing

The Director of Network Engineering is responsible for leading the design, implementation, and management of the bank's network infrastructure. This role requires extensive expertise in networking technologies, security, and compliance standards relevant to the banking industry. The incumbent will lead a team of network engineers and collaborate closely with other technology and security teams to ensure the bank's network is secure, resilient, and capable of supporting current and future business requirements.

CIBC we enable the work environment most optimal for you to thrive in your role. You'll have the flexibility to manage your work activities within a hybrid work arrangement where you'll spend 3-4 days per week on-site, while other days may be remote.

How you'll succeed

  • Network Architecture and Design: Lead the design and implementation of scalable, secure, and resilient network architectures to meet the bank's business needs. Evaluate new technologies and make recommendations for network enhancements and upgrades.

  • Team Leadership and Development: Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to the network engineering team. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the team.

  • Security and Compliance: Ensure that the bank's network infrastructure complies with industry regulations, standards, and best practices, including PCI DSS, GLBA, and FFIEC guidelines. Implement robust security measures to protect the bank's network from cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks.

  • Vendor Management:Manage relationships with network equipment vendors, service providers, and contractors. Negotiate contracts, evaluate proposals, and ensure timely delivery of products and services.

  • Incident Response and Risk Management:Develop and implement incident response procedures to address network outages, security breaches, and other incidents promptly. Identify and mitigate network-related risks to ensure uninterrupted banking operations.

  • Performance Optimization:Monitor network performance and implement optimizations to enhance speed, reliability, and efficiency. Conduct regular performance assessments and capacity planning to support the bank's growth objectives.

  • Budgeting and Resource Management: Manage the network engineering budget effectively, allocating resources based on priorities and strategic objectives.

  • Optimize costs while ensuring the network infrastructure meets operational and security requirements.

  • Collaboration and Communication:Collaborate with other technology teams, such as Infrastructure Operations, Cybersecurity, Information Security and Application Development, to ensure seamless integration of network infrastructure with other systems and applications. Communicate effectively with senior management and stakeholders, providing updates on network projects, initiatives, and performance.

  • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation of network configurations, policies, procedures, and incident reports. Generate regular reports on network performance, security posture, and compliance status for internal and regulatory purposes.

Who you are

  • You have a minimum of 10 years of experience in Network Engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. You are well experienced in integrating multiple corporate networks and have experience with Network Monitoring and Management tools, such as Cisco and Palo Alto Networks. You have an in-depth knowledge of networking protocols, technologies, and architectures, including LAN, WAN, VPN, SD-WAN, MPLS and network infrastructure that supports cloud services and have a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, threat landscape, and best practices for securing network infrastructure in a banking environment.

  • You have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field. Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CCIE, CISSP) preferred.

  • You have a proven track record of successfully leading network infrastructure projects from conception to implementation, within budget and timeline constraints.

  • You have a excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

  • You're passionate about people. You find meaning in relationships and surround yourself with a diverse network of partners. You connect with others through respect and authenticity.

  • You're able to work cross-functionally with Internal business partners and CIBC lines of businesses and their leadership teams, partner teams and centers of excellence.

#LI-TA

California residents - your privacy rights regarding your actual or prospective employment

At CIBC, we offer a competitive total rewards package. This role has an expected salary range of $165,000- $240,000 based on experience, qualifications, and location of the position. The successful candidate may be eligible to participate in the relevant business unit's incentive compensation plan, which also may include a discretionary bonus component. CIBC offers a full range of benefits and programs to meet our employee's needs; including Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, Disability, and Other Insurance Plans, Paid Time Off (including Sick Leave, Parental Leave, and Vacation), Holidays, and 401(k), in addition to other special perks reserved for our team members.

This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

What CIBC Offers

At CIBC, your goals are a priority. We start with your strengths and ambitions as an employee and strive to create opportunities to tap into your potential. We aspire to give you a career, rather than just a paycheck.

  • We work to recognize you in meaningful, personalized ways including a competitive salary, incentive pay, banking benefits, a benefits program*, a vacation offering, wellbeing support, and MomentMakers, our social, points-based recognition program.

  • Our spaces and technological toolkit will make it simple to bring together great minds to create innovative solutions that make a difference for our clients.

  • We cultivate a culture where you can express your ambition through initiatives like Purpose Day; a paid day off dedicated for you to use to invest in your growth and development.

*Subject to plan and program terms and conditions

What you need to know

  • CIBC is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members and clients feel like they belong. We seek applicants with a wide range of abilities and we provide an accessible candidate experience. If you need accommodation, please contact Mailbox.careers-carrieres@cibc.com

  • You need to be legally eligible to work at the location(s) specified above and, where applicable, must have a valid work or study permit.

  • We may ask you to complete an attribute-based assessment and other skills tests (such as simulation, coding, MS Office). Our goal for the application process is to get to know more about you, all that you have to offer, and give you the opportunity to learn more about us.

Job Location

IL-Chicago, 70 W Madison St Fl 10

Employment Type

Regular

Weekly Hours

40

Skills

Data Center Networks, Design Planning, Network Technologies, Project Intake Management