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Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... powers the network insights customers see in Dashboard and feeds product teams, monitoring ... Work with various groups within Cisco to understand their and our customers' data requirements and ...

Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Engineer Reports To: Principal Engineer Status: Regular, Full-Time, Exempt Location: Des Moines, IA ... Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) * VMware Certified Professional (VCP) * ITIL Foundation ...

Engineer Reports To : Principal Engineer Status : Regular, Full-Time, Exempt Location : Des Moines ... Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) * VMware Certified Professional (VCP) * ITIL Foundation ...

Principal Engineer Status: Regular, Full-Time,Exempt Location: Des Moines, IA - Hybrid POSITION ... Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) * VMware Certified Professional (VCP) * ITIL Foundation ...

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Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer information

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$23

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How much do entry level cisco network engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cisco network engineer in Iowa is $50.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.30 and $57.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer vs Network Support Technician?

AspectEntry Level Cisco Network EngineerNetwork Support Technician
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CompTIA A+, Network+
Work EnvironmentNetwork design, configuration, troubleshooting in Cisco environmentsHardware setup, basic troubleshooting, user support
ResponsibilitiesConfigure Cisco routers/switches, assist in network planningMaintain hardware, resolve user issues, perform routine checks

While both roles involve network support, Entry Level Cisco Network Engineers focus on configuring Cisco devices and network design, whereas Network Support Technicians handle hardware maintenance and user support. The former typically requires Cisco certifications like CCNA, and the role is more involved in network architecture, making it suitable for those aiming to specialize in Cisco networking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Cisco network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, TCP/IP protocols, and a relevant certification such as Cisco's CCNA. Familiarity with Cisco routers, switches, and network management tools is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you troubleshoot issues and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliable network performance and supporting organizational IT needs.

What does an entry level Cisco network engineer do?

An Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, implementation, and maintenance of network infrastructures using Cisco technologies. Their tasks often include configuring routers and switches, monitoring network performance, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and supporting senior engineers with larger projects. They work to ensure that network systems are efficient, secure, and meet the needs of the organization. Entry level engineers typically have a basic understanding of networking protocols and may hold certifications like Cisco's CCNA.

What typical challenges do entry level Cisco network engineers face when transitioning from classroom learning to real-world network environments?

Entry Level Cisco Network Engineers often find that real-world networks are more complex and less predictable than lab scenarios. Common challenges include troubleshooting unexpected network issues, adapting to different hardware models, and managing time-sensitive tasks during outages or upgrades. Additionally, new engineers must quickly learn to document changes accurately and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical team members. Overcoming these challenges requires continuous learning, asking for guidance from experienced colleagues, and being proactive in hands-on troubleshooting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cisco Network Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 40% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 24% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,334 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Network Engineer, Operations & Support

Meta

Cedar Rapids, IA

$106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 242 rated software companies


Job description

Meta is seeking a Network Engineer to join our Site Services and Edge Network Services (ENS) Operations team. In this role, you will support the deployment, integration, and ongoing operational health of network infrastructure across Meta's global site portfolio. You will work at the intersection of structured cabling, IP networking, and physical layer systems to ensure reliable connectivity for hyperscale data center and campus environments. Collaborating with network design, engineering, and cross-functional partners, you will help drive scalable deployment strategies, resolve complex network incidents, and improve operational processes that underpin one of the world's largest and most dynamic network infrastructures.
Network Engineer, Operations & Support Responsibilities:
  • Support the deployment and integration of network infrastructure across Meta's site portfolio, including structured cabling, fiber connectivity, switching, and routing systems in data center and campus environments
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, managed service providers, and third-party vendors to investigate and resolve complex network incidents and site events affecting edge, access, and core infrastructure
  • Identify operational improvement opportunities across deployment workflows, change management processes, and support procedures to increase efficiency, reliability, and standards compliance
  • Partner with network design and engineering teams to provide field-level feedback that informs future infrastructure designs, cabling standards, and scalability requirements
  • Analyze operational data including fault trends, deployment metrics, and vendor performance to identify systemic issues and drive prioritized corrective actions
  • Ensure accuracy and completeness of network asset records, documentation, and operational runbooks to support consistent and auditable site operations
  • Collaborate with automation and tooling teams to identify opportunities for reducing manual operational tasks, and in some cases directly implement lightweight solutions to address recurring operational gaps
  • Provide technical guidance to external vendors and field technicians to direct installation, repair, and validation activities in accordance with Meta's network standards
  • Communicate clearly on project status, incident outcomes, and operational metrics to stakeholders across engineering, operations, and site services teams
  • International and domestic travel may be required up to 25% of the time depending on business needs

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience. Degree must be completed prior to joining Meta
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams and external vendors to execute network deployments, change management activities, or incident resolution at scale
  • 2+ years of experience deploying, operating, or supporting large-scale network infrastructure including structured cabling, fiber optic systems, and IP networking in data center or campus environments
  • Experience analyzing operational datasets or metrics to identify trends, prioritize issues, and support data-driven decision making in a network operations context
  • Experience troubleshooting and root-causing network incidents across physical, data link, and network layers in enterprise or data center environments
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience with network hardware platforms and physical layer infrastructure, including switches, routers, fiber/copper test equipment, and associated installation tooling

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with enterprise or service provider network hardware platforms such as Arista, Cisco, Juniper, or Nexus data center switching platforms
  • Experience working within or alongside a Network Operations Center (NOC) environment, including managing against SLAs and contributing to continuous improvement programs
  • Familiarity with hyperscale data center physical infrastructure including rack elevations, structured cabling standards, fiber optic plant design, and power and cooling considerations
  • Demonstrated use of AI tools to optimize operational workflows, automate documentation, or accelerate troubleshooting and root cause analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$106,995/year to $159,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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