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Entry Level Network Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Entry Level Network Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$32.7K

$115K

$166.7K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network engineer in Modesto, CA is $115,037.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $140,800.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? For Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Entry Level Network Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Engineer job openings in Modesto, 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 $115,037 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure Engineer I,II, Senior

Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure Engineer I,II, Senior

Turlock Irrigation District

Turlock, CA • On-site

$7.6K - $14K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Salary: $7,628.00 - $14,385.00 Monthly
Location : Main Canal Office, Turlock, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 1893
Department: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Opening Date: 07/01/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
The Position
Turlock Irrigation District is currently seeking a qualified IT Infrastructure Engineer to become a valuable member of our IT Operations team. In this role, you will play a critical part in designing, configuring, implementing, supporting, and administering the District's IT infrastructure.
As an IT Infrastructure Engineer, you will share responsibility for the upkeep and operation of multiple datacenters. You will also serve as an escalation point for the IT Helpdesk, assisting with complex technical issues that go beyond first-level support and ensuring timely resolution of infrastructure-related incidents and requests.
The Districts' current technology environment includes, but is not limited to, VMware and Oracle virtualization platforms; Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS); Cisco networking across Layer 2, Layer 3, and datacenter environments, Palo Alto Network security platform; and a range of storage technologies including SAN and fiber channel. The environment also includes firewalls and other security appliances, as well as Microsoft 365, Teams Phone System, Amazon Web Services (AWS) for cloud and collaboration services. Core applications and databases include Oracle Database, Oracle Fusion Middleware products, and Microsoft SQL Server. The infrastructure is supported by both Windows and Linux servers, wireless networking, and other enterprise IT solutions.
Your efforts will help ensure the security, performance, and high availability of critical IT infrastructure components to support the reliable delivery of water and electric services to the communities we serve.
JOB SUMMARY
Under general direction from the Information Technology (IT) Services Operations Manager, develop, enhance and support infrastructure and systems for IT Services customers. Guide the implementation and use of new and appropriate information technology in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.
Provide information systems technical support and training to IT staff and customers. Provide leadership and inter departmental communication during analysis and design, implementation, and maintenance phases. Review, analyze and provide recommendations for system integrations.
Troubleshoot and maintain IT infrastructure, including network hardware and software. Provide, system configuration and solution integration services, assisting in ensuring functional and/or technical integration with various District systems and business processes.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
IT Infrastructure Engineer I is the entry-level class in the IT Infrastructure Engineer series. The IT Infrastructure Engineer I is assigned to work on projects under guidance of experienced IT Infrastructure Engineers. Positions assigned to this class will usually perform daily administration of systems, network, and infrastructure in addition to responsibilities related to system and network security. This position is not expected to function at the same skill level as senior positions and will usually exercise less independent direction and decision making.
IT Infrastructure Engineer II is the professional level class in the IT Infrastructure Engineer series. The IT Infrastructure Engineer II is expected to perform duties associated with all prior position levels as necessary. Positions assigned to this classification are distinguished from the IT Infrastructure Engineer I by a proven track record of successfully completed projects that they have led or provided a leadership role within their functional area. Positions assigned to this level
are expected to mentor and train staff on fundamental concepts related to servers, networking, infrastructure, and security systems. In addition, positions assigned to this class are responsible for hardware and software procurements, as well as IT planning, development and system and network design.
Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer is the advanced professional class in the IT Infrastructure Engineer series. The Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer is expected to perform duties associated with all prior position levels as necessary. Positions assigned to this classification are distinguished from the IT Infrastructure Engineer II classification by their demonstrated performance of complex database administration, along with the analysis and design of network and infrastructure systems. In addition, positions assigned to this class will have a proven track record of successfully managing and completing projects in which they have demonstrated a significant leadership role. The individual will have a proven track record of mentoring and training staff in advanced systems, network and infrastructure concepts, in addition to other relevant technical areas. In some cases, these individuals may assume a leadership role, overseeing and directing the work of other IT staff.
Examples of Duties
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide strategic planning, implementation, and ongoing support for IT systems. networks and infrastructure. Responsibilities include server and network administration, infrastructure management, cloud services (PaaS & SaaS), datacenter operations, virtualization platforms, database administration and phone system support.
Analyze existing operations and evaluate both new and existing technologies to recommend and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, strengthen security and reduce or mitigate risks.
Provide technical support by utilizing knowledge of existing technologies to troubleshoot issues, resolve problems and support the implementation of new projects.
Keep abreast of emerging trends and best practices in server, database, network, datacenter and security concepts and technologies.
Monitor and optimize server, network and system performance. Collaborate with IT Security Division team to remediate and mitigate security vulnerabilities across all infrastructure and network environments as needed or upon request.
Demonstrate the ability to deploy, manage and maintain systems and their corresponding or associated software, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and anti-virus and endpoint protection software, patch management, system monitoring solutions, and backup and recovery systems, as necessary to ensure security, performance and reliability.
Develop, implement, maintain, and oversee enforcement of policies, procedures and associated plans for network and system administration, as well as user access, ensuring compliance with industry best practices and security standards.
Participate in the planning, design, and implementation of disaster recovery and/or emergency response plans. Provide assistance to the Security and Emergency Preparedness Department as necessary.
Comply with all District rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
Must satisfy any existing and future District security clearance or background check requirements.
Perform other related duties as required or assigned by supervisor.
All levels of the IT Infrastructure Engineer series are required to provide 24/7 support as assigned.
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the skills and abilities would be:
Education
Usually exhibited by a person with a Bachelor's Degree in computer information systems, computer science or related field is preferred for the IT Infrastructure Engineer I. A Bachelor's degree in computer information systems, computer science or related field is required for the IT Infrastructure Engineer II and Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer levels.
Experience
IT Infrastructure Engineer I
None required. Relevant experience in system and infrastructure administration including exposure to servers, networks, virtualization is highly desirable.
IT Infrastructure Engineer II
Four (4) or more years of experience at the IT Infrastructure Engineer I level in technology areas related to systems, servers, networking, datacenter, user and security administration, in addition to project management. Individuals in the IT Infrastructure Engineer II level will have experience with systems analysis, systems integration, system performance and system monitoring, in addition to staff mentoring and training.
Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer
Six (6) or more years of experience at the IT Infrastructure Engineer level in areas related to systems, networking, security administration and/or database management, in addition to project management. Individuals in the Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer level will have experience with operations and security administration, policy development, strategic planning, systems analysis and integration, performance monitoring, security log analysis, computer forensics, and database management and demonstrated success in mentoring and developing junior staff.
Skills and Abilities
Interpersonal and Communication. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing with both internal and external contacts; and work cooperatively with executive and management staff, employees and others to provide effective information technology services support at agreed-upon support levels. Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner so that you get along with customers, clients, co-workers and management.
Technical and Analytical. Knowledge of systems analysis, programming and testing procedures utilizing District standard computing platforms; methods practices and principles involved in maintaining an effective hardware and software platform; work on multiple tasks concurrently; analyze and resolve IT Services system problems; and properly interpret various situations in accordance with existing laws, rules, regulations and policies.
Administration and Operations. Knowledge of operation and care of general-purpose computer equipment; and principles of project management. Ability to work in a rapidly changing work environment and to work well under pressure; maintain work quality while meeting reasonable deadlines; refine organizational skills and work independently; and direct the work of internal and external project team members as part of project management responsibility.
Supplemental Information
Necessary Special Requirement
Possession of an appropriate California driver's license.
Must file a Statement of Economic Interest in compliance with Governmental Code Section 8100.
Successful completion of an initial background investigation as well as additional periodic background investigations based on NERC-CIP or District requirements.
Sign & Acknowledge a Confidentiality Agreement.
SELECTION
CRITERIA
Item Percentage Required to
Obtain a Passing Score
Oral Interview 70%
Medical
Examination
This position may
require a medical examination to determine medical fitness for performing the
duties assigned to the position or classification. Turlock Irrigation
District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate on the
basis of, race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, sex,
physical and mental disability, medical condition (cancer related), age (over
40), and marital status. Assistance is
available in filling out job applications for disabled individuals. Applicants will be
subject to drug testing in accordance with FHWA regulations, when the position
requires a Commercial Driver's License. Turlock Irrigation
District's bargaining unit positions are a part of an agency shop. Turlock Irrigation
District provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with a
disability in accordance with federal and state law.
SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Human Resources Department, via our web site at www.tid.org.
POSTING
Internal and external
applicants may apply beginning Wednesday, July 1, 2026 until position is
filled or we have enough qualified applicants for consideration.
Internal Candidate
Note: Please refer to TIDEA MOU Section 20.2 and/or MSPC Section 26.13
for additional wage information.
Human Resources
Department
(209) 883-8253
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS SUMMARY
The following summary of benefits is provided by the Turlock Irrigation District for employees filling regular full time positions.
Holidays: 12 paid holidays per calendar year
Sick Leave: 12 sick leave days per calendar year with no accumulation limit
Vacation:
M.S.P.C. Non-Bargaining Unit
2 weeks (7 month through 2nd year)
3 weeks (3rd year through 5th year)
4 weeks + 1 day(6th year through 14th year)
5 weeks (15th year through 24th year)
5 weeks + 3 days (25th year & thereafter)
1 Floating Holiday
Health Insurance is provided by the District and administered through our Third Party Administrator. Turlock Irrigation District utilizes the Anthem Blue Cross Prudent Buyer PPO Network. Out-of-pocket expenses can be limited if Anthem Blue Cross plan providers and hospitals are used. Employees have a choice of a PPO Plan or a HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan) during open enrollment or a qualifying event as per IRS plan guidelines.
Prescription Insurance is administered by Navitus. We have a four-tiered co-pay structured plan: generic; formulary; non-formulary; & specialty. For maintenance medications, the Navitus "Mail Order" plan is most cost effective.
Dental Insurance is provided by the District and administered through Delta Dental PPO Network. P