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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Job Overview The TOC Network Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ... Analyze and adjust Core and LAN/WAN systems to maintain and improve network capacity, security, and ...

New

Network Engineer

Mettawa, IL · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Job Overview The TOC Network Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ... Analyze and adjust Core and LAN/WAN systems to maintain and improve network capacity, security, and ...

New

Network Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Job Overview The TOC Network Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ... Analyze and adjust Core and LAN/WAN systems to maintain and improve network capacity, security, and ...

New

Client Platforms Security Engineer We are seeking a Client Platforms Security Engineer to work with ... Understanding of network fundamentals and protocols. * Deep technical understanding of client OS ...

Network Directory and Infrastructure Services Administration. Knowledge of domain administration and troubleshooting, Active Directory, MS FIM, Exchange, MS Office365 and supporting technologies, MS ...

IT Security Engineer II

Warrenville, IL · Hybrid

$46.64 - $72.29/hr

Position: IT Security Engineer II * Location: Skokie, IL or Warrenville, IL or Arlington Heights ... Intermediate-level knowledge of network, application, and systems security architecture.

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Knowledge of areas such as network security, software engineering, web or mobile application ...

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Knowledge of areas such as network security, software engineering, web or mobile application ...

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Knowledge of areas such as network security, software engineering, web or mobile application ...

... entry-level positions. You'll receive a status update email for each application, so be sure to ... Knowledge of areas such as network security, software engineering, web or mobile application ...

IT Security Engineer II

Skokie, IL · Hybrid

$46.64 - $72.29/hr

Position: IT Security Engineer II * Location: Skokie, IL or Warrenville, IL or Arlington Heights ... Intermediate-level knowledge of network, application, and systems security architecture.

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Network Security Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$20.4K

$121.1K

$161.8K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network security engineer in Illinois is $121,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,300.00 and $138,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level network security engineer do?

An Entry Level Network Security Engineer is responsible for helping to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems from cyber threats. They assist with monitoring network activity, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. Their duties often include configuring security software, responding to incidents, and supporting senior engineers with risk assessments. This role is ideal for those who are knowledgeable in networking basics and have a strong interest in cybersecurity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level network security engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Security Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, cybersecurity principles, and a relevant degree or certification such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating security risks, and maintaining a robust network defense.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level network security engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level network security engineers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to a fast-paced environment where new threats and vulnerabilities emerge regularly. They may also need to familiarize themselves with a variety of security tools and protocols, as well as company-specific network architectures. Collaborating effectively with more experienced team members and communicating technical information to non-technical colleagues can take time to master. However, these challenges are great learning opportunities and help build a strong foundation for career growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Network Security Engineer vs Network Security Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Network Security EngineerNetwork Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles may not require CISSP)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing security measures, and supporting network infrastructureMonitoring, analyzing security threats, and incident response
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, cybersecurity firms, telecom companiesFinancial institutions, government agencies, tech companies

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, an Entry Level Network Security Engineer primarily works on designing and implementing security solutions, whereas a Network Security Analyst monitors and analyzes security threats. The roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ, making each essential in a comprehensive security strategy.

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

The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,078 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Cloud Security Engineer (AWS) (Hybrid in Chicago)

MMD Services, Inc

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$55.50 - $74.25/hr

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Our client, a Chicago-staple in the collision and auto body industry, is looking to hire a Sr Cloud Security Engineer!

Please note! We place high value on collaboration and the value that in-person work offers. We need someone who can commit to three days onsite in Elmhurst, just outside Chicago!

The Sr. Engineer, Cloud Security helps shape and maintain the security vision for the organization''''s cloud environments and applications. This role contributes to cloud architecture decisions, develops and maintains security policies and standards, and helps ensure cloud service providers remain compliant with organizational security goals.

What You’ll Do

  • Build, deploy, and manage cloud security tools and services, and evaluate and respond to alerts and events they generate
  • Design scalable processes for provisioning cloud access, including cloud-aware authentication mechanisms
  • Identify, investigate, and guide resolution of security issues and vulnerabilities across the cloud infrastructure
  • Review cloud architecture and design through a security lens, providing actionable requirements and recommendations
  • Collaborate with security leadership, engineering, and compliance teams to develop and execute security strategy
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on security tools, platforms, and processes, and maintain knowledge of evolving cloud technologies
  • Develop cloud security criteria, procedures, and policies, and support security operations activities
  • Integrate security practices into the software development lifecycle, including related methodologies and operational metrics
  • Partner with other teams to resolve security issues in ways that align with business requirements and best practices

Required

  • At least 3 years of experience in a cloud security engineering role
  • Experience architecting solutions on one or more major cloud platforms
  • Experience deploying and customizing security tools such as vulnerability scanners, static analyzers, intrusion detection/prevention systems, firewalls, and endpoint security monitoring
  • Experience with log management or security event correlation systems
  • Knowledge of Zero Trust principles and thorough understanding of cloud and network security
  • Familiarity with modern cloud technology components and deployment patterns

MMD Services Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, ancestry, physical/mental disability, medical condition, military/veteran status, genetic information, marital status, ethnicity, alienage or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.