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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Optiver

Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

An engineering mindset, attention to detail, and a preference for pragmatic solutions are essential ... Maintain and tune security tools across AWS, Microsoft 365, endpoints, and network infrastructure.

Optiver

Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

An engineering mindset, attention to detail, and a preference for pragmatic solutions are essential ... Maintain and tune security tools across AWS, Microsoft 365, endpoints, and network infrastructure.

Optiver Holding BV

Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

An engineering mindset, attention to detail, and a preference for pragmatic solutions are essential ... Maintain and tune security tools across AWS, Microsoft 365, endpoints, and network infrastructure.

New

MMD Services, Inc

Cloud Security Engineer (AWS)

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$56.25 - $75/hr

The Sr. Engineer, Cloud Security helps shape and maintain the security vision for the organization ... Knowledge of Zero Trust principles and thorough understanding of cloud and network security

New

Democorp

Senior Security Engineer

Chicago, IL

$118K - $161K/yr

The Senior Security Engineer works in Optiv's 24x7x365 Security Operations Center as a member of ... network troubleshooting to isolate and diagnose common network problems, using strong TCP/IP ...

Democorp

Senior Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$118K - $161K/yr

The Senior Security Engineer works in Optiv's 24x7x365 Security Operations Center as a member of ... network troubleshooting to isolate and diagnose common network problems, using strong TCP/IP ...

P2P

Client Platforms Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

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 ...

New

DRW

Client Platforms Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

They are seeking a Client Platforms Security Engineer to work with the security team to ensure that ... network fundamentals and protocols. • Deep technical understanding of client OS platforms (e.g ...

Endeavor Health

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.

Endeavor Health

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.

NorthShore

IT Security Engineer II

Skokie, IL · On-site

$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.

DRW

Client Platforms Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

You will engineer, maintain and implement security controls, audit configurations in a hybrid ... Understanding of network fundamentals and protocols. * Deep technical understanding of client OS ...

TEKsystems

Sr. Container Security Engineer

Chicago, IL

$70 - $90/hr

... RBAC, network policies, secrets management, and runtime controls. • Partner with DevOps and applications teams to integrate security checks into CI/CD pipelines. • Continuously monitor for ...

TEKsystems

Sr. Container Security Engineer

Chicago, IL

$70 - $90/hr

... RBAC, network policies, secrets management, and runtime controls. • Partner with DevOps and applications teams to integrate security checks into CI/CD pipelines. • Continuously monitor for ...

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All JobsNetwork Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Network Security Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21.6K

$128.7K

$172K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network security engineer in Chicago, IL is $128,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $147,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,715 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Network Security Engineer

Sulekha.com New Media Pvt Ltd

Lake Zurich, IL • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Network Security Engineer Jobs in Candid8 Lake Zurich, IL

Massive Hiring Alert – Network Security Engineer

Responsibilities
  • Firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS & Security Monitoring
  • Network Troubleshooting & Incident Response
  • Routing, Switching, TCP/IP & Network Protocols
  • Security Best Practices & Compliance Standards
Preferred Skills
  • Palo Alto
  • Cisco Security
  • Fortinet
  • NAC
  • SIEM Tools
  • Vulnerability Management
  • Risk Assessment

OPT Candidates Welcome!

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