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Entry Level Network Engineer Jobs in Cary, NC (NOW HIRING)

This entry-level role focuses on developing technical expertise through structured training ... Network and cybersecurity fundamentals for automation systems * System integration, testing, and ...

This entry-level role focuses on developing technicalexpertisethrough structured training ... Assistwith preparation of engineering documentation and network diagrams. * Participate in ...

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Entry Level Network Engineer information

See Cary, NC salary details

$28.7K

$101K

$146.4K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network engineer in Cary, NC is $101,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $123,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Cary, NC?

The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Cary, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Cary, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Cary, NC are:

What cities near Cary, NC are hiring for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs?

Cities near Cary, NC with the most Entry Level Network Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Engineer job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $107,135 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Northrop Grumman (SkillBridge) Java Software Engineer Level 1 or 2

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Morrisville, NC

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

SkillBridgeProgramDescription:

As one of the largest global security companies in the world, Northrop Grumman is proud to help our nation's military personnelnavigate their next chapter into civilian careers. Approximately20%of Northrop Grumman's100,000 employees self-identify as veterans, and more than2,000 are reservists.

The Northrop GrummanSkillBridge Programis an approved SkillBridge Program under Dept. of Defense Instruction 1322.29. Theprogram is an opportunity for service memberspreparing for civilian careersto gain valuable civilian work experience during their last 6 months of service, for up to 180 days.TheSkillBridgeProgram is open to all ranks and experience levels.SkillBridge participants are not eligible for compensation from Northrop Grumman, as they continue to receive military compensation and benefits as active-duty service members.

Responsibilities forSkillBridge Program participationare:

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) has developed the Northrop Grumman -SkillBridge Program(SkillBridge) utilizing the DoDI guidance forSkillBridge.Through this program, the service-member will work on site with their host company, gaining experience in an entry to mid-level career path. The service member will be on the job training supporting a work schedule equivalent to 40hrs per week. Outlined below are the Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes for the program.

Goals-Provide separating service-members with job skills training in a professional setting during the final phase of their military service.This program is specifically designed to offerhands-onexperiencethat result in the potential toconvertto a full-time opportunity as the conclusion of the training.Participantswill serve as a pipeline for high-speed, motivated military candidates into NGC.

Objectives- Service Members who complete theSkillBridgeprogram will behighly trained, capable, future employees that align to the specific needs of the organization and are prepared to meet the NG mission "Defining Possible" on Day 1. This program providescomprehensivehands-onexperience including professional development, networking with leadership, and training specifically focused on NG leadership principles, company history, customer/stakeholder engagement, product and service overview, and core job responsibilities.

Outcome- Offerservice-members preparing for civilian careersa rewarding opportunity to join the Northrop Grumman team.

SkillBridgeEligibility:

  • Has served at least 180 days on active duty

  • Is within12 monthsof separation or retirement

  • Will receive an honorable discharge

  • Has taken any service TAPS/TGPS

  • Has attended or participated in an ethics brief within the last 12 months

  • Received Unit Commander(first O-4/Field Grade commander in chain of command)written authorization and approval to participate inSkillBridge Program prior to start of internship.

About our organization:As an engineer, you'll be joining our growing Aurora Software department which has 200+ Software Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Systems Administrator, Database Administrator, and Network Engineer peers from entry-level to the most senior chief engineers and architects. We have plenty of opportunities for career advancement into higher level technical roles or leadership positions. Our Software Department is part of a larger organization that includes Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test staff as well as a Hardware Engineering unit. This larger organization influences cross-program collaboration, professional development and training, as well as engagement and inclusion activities such as lunch-n-learns, campus events, and leadership mixers.

We support a small but mighty team that continues to innovate and set new benchmarks for our customers. If this sounds like an opportunity for you, Northrop Grumman Space Systems Sector would love to have you join our team as a (level 1 or level 2) Software Engineer based out of Aurora, CO.

The new Software Engineer will be on an Agile team supporting two programs with a singular baseline.Will be working in the office executing 2-week Sprints for 3-month increment deliveries. Your focus will be to design, develop, and maintain robust Java applications that meet business requirements and deliver high-performance, scalable solutions.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Level 1: Bachelor's degree in science with 0+ years of software development experience; or 4 additional years of experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Level 2: Bachelor's degree in science with 2+ years of software development experience; 0+ years with a Master's; or 4 additional years of experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Requires an active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility at time of application.
  • Experience working with RESTful APIs and microservices.
  • Must have a thorough understanding of the Java Programming Language.
  • Familiarity with version control using Git and workflows on platforms such as GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket.
  • Demonstrated success with Agile processes.
  • Experience integrating with SQL and/or NoSQL databases.
  • Firm understanding of the Software Development Lifecycle.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CompTIA Security+ Certification.
  • Experience with Linux.
  • Demonstrated experience working with cross-functional teams.
  • Understanding of peer review processes and feature iterations.
Primary Level Salary Range: $76,200.00 - $114,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939