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Entry Level Network Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

HDR

VCF Network Engineer 1

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

They are seeking a VCF Network Engineer 1 to support the design, implementation, and administration ... • Entry-level or associate networking and virtualization certifications. • Exposure to ...

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Entry Level Network Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$31.1K

$109.3K

$158.4K

How much do entry level network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network engineer in Pennsylvania is $109,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,200.00 and $133,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Network Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, TCP/IP protocols, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco IOS, network monitoring software, and entry-level certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring reliable network performance, troubleshooting issues efficiently, and collaborating with IT teams.

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

AspectEntry Level Network EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's/Bachelor's degree in IT or related field, certifications like CompTIA Network+High school diploma or equivalent, certifications like CompTIA Network+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot network systems; often involved in planning and configurationInstall, maintain, and repair network hardware and connections; more hands-on troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, telecom, and IT service providers; entry-level role for network design and supportCommon in retail, small business, and technical support roles; focus on hardware and connectivity issues

While both roles involve working with networks, Entry Level Network Engineers focus on designing and planning network systems, requiring more technical knowledge and certifications. Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and troubleshooting, often with less formal education. Both roles are essential in maintaining network infrastructure but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Can you become a network engineer with no experience?

Entry level network engineers can start with little to no experience by gaining foundational knowledge through certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA, and developing skills in networking concepts, hardware, and troubleshooting. Internships, labs, and hands-on practice are valuable for building practical experience and improving job prospects.

What does an Entry Level Network Engineer do?

An Entry Level Network Engineer assists in the design, implementation, and maintenance of a company's computer networks. They support troubleshooting network issues, configuring network hardware, and monitoring network performance under the guidance of senior engineers. These professionals often work with routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment to ensure secure and efficient network operations. Entry level engineers also help with documentation and may participate in installing new technologies as the organization grows.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or certain senior roles in technology companies can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often working in high-paying industries or leadership positions.

What entry level jobs can you get with Network+?

Entry-level network engineers with a Network+ certification can qualify for roles such as network technician, help desk technician, or network support specialist. These positions typically involve troubleshooting, installing, and maintaining network hardware and software, often requiring familiarity with networking tools and protocols.

Will AI replace CCNA jobs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace entry-level network engineer roles that require hands-on skills, troubleshooting, and understanding of network infrastructure. Instead, AI tools can assist with tasks like network monitoring and automation, allowing network engineers to focus on complex problem-solving and design. Certifications like the CCNA remain valuable for demonstrating foundational knowledge and adapting to evolving technology environments.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level network engineer?

As an entry level network engineer, you will typically assist with configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls. You may also support more senior engineers in implementing network upgrades, performing routine maintenance, and responding to network outages or security incidents. Participating in documentation, inventory management, and helping to onboard new users are also common tasks. These responsibilities provide valuable hands-on experience and a strong foundation for career growth in network engineering.

What Does an Entry-Level Network Engineer Do?

An entry-level network engineer helps plan, build, install, and troubleshoot networks or technology systems for a customer. They commonly work under the supervision of a senior-level network engineer as they gain skills and experience. The responsibilities of an entry-level network engineer include working to troubleshoot customer issues, creating data backups, performing recovery operations, monitoring network performance, and performing network security measures such as examining hardware components that may need to be replaced and managing virus protection software. The minimum qualifications to become an entry-level network engineer include a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer engineering, or a similar discipline.

More about Entry Level Network Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Network Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania 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 $109,301 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

VCF Network Engineer 1

HDR

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Job Summary:
HDR is a company focused on creating a welcoming environment for its employee-owners. They are seeking a VCF Network Engineer 1 to support the design, implementation, and administration of NSX overlay networking across VCF environments, as well as manage network security and application delivery services.
Responsibilities:
• Support design, implementation, and day-to-day administration of NSX overlay networking across VCF environments.
• Implement approved micro-segmentation policies, distributed firewall rules, and network security changes.
• Configure and maintain application delivery services, including load balancing and virtual service constructs.
• Support operation of the physical data center network fabric, including spine/leaf, top-of-rack switching, and routing adjacencies.
• Assist with site-to-site VPN configuration and inter-data-center connectivity tasks.
• Participate in troubleshooting of routing, segmentation, and traffic flow issues across virtual and physical network layers.
• Follow established standards for network documentation, change control, operational readiness, and service handoff.
• Coordinate with platform, security, and operations teams to complete assigned work within approved architectures.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent practical experience may be considered.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in enterprise networking, data center networking, or software-defined networking environments.
• Working knowledge of VMware NSX / NSX-T concepts, including logical switching, routing, and security policy constructs.
• Experience with core routing and switching fundamentals, including BGP and OSPF.
• Familiarity with spine-leaf architecture and top-of-rack switching concepts.
• Foundational knowledge of micro-segmentation, zero trust principles, and Layer 4–7 load balancing.
• Experience supporting production incident, change, and problem management processes.
Preferred:
• Experience with Avi Load Balancer or other enterprise load balancing technologies.
• Exposure to VCF platform concepts and lifecycle components.
• Entry-level or associate networking and virtualization certifications.
• Exposure to automation tooling such as Ansible, Terraform, or scripting for network operations.
• Familiarity with basic VPN technologies and encrypted site connectivity.
Company:
HDR is an employee-owned design firm specializing in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. We’re ranked No. Founded in 1917, the company is headquartered in Omaha, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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