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Entry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Innogrit

Firmware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

DOE Firmware Engineer (entry level) Are you passionate about development and project-based work? Do ... Experience or good understanding of PCIe/NAND/SMBus/UART/SPI protocols * BS in Computer Science, or ...

PZI International

Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Position Summary Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. is seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to ... Secure Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNet) interfaces * Neural networks, artificial ...

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Entry Level Protocol Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level protocol engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

As an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you can expect to spend your days assisting in the design, implementation, and testing of network protocols. You'll likely work closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, write and review code, and participate in team meetings to discuss protocol specifications and improvements. Collaboration with QA teams and developers is common to ensure interoperability and performance. Over time, you'll gain exposure to documentation, debugging tools, and the latest industry standards, helping you build a strong foundation in protocol engineering.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you need a strong understanding of computer networking, programming (often in languages like C/C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with networking tools, packet analyzers (like Wireshark), and foundational knowledge of protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or newer blockchain protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable network or blockchain protocols that support robust and secure digital communication.

What is an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

An Entry Level Protocol Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining communication protocols for computer networks and distributed systems. These protocols are sets of rules that enable devices to communicate efficiently and securely. In this role, engineers collaborate with senior team members to troubleshoot issues, write code, perform testing, and ensure interoperability between systems. The position typically requires knowledge of networking concepts, programming languages, and an understanding of protocol standards. Entry level engineers gain practical experience and foundational skills needed for more advanced engineering roles.

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

AspectEntry Level Protocol EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNA)Associate degree or certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting network protocols and systemsInstalling, maintaining, and repairing network hardware and connections
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, IT services, networking companiesCorporate IT departments, internet service providers, telecom firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level networking roles involving protocolsMore hardware-focused, but overlaps in troubleshooting skills

While both roles require foundational networking knowledge and certifications, Entry Level Protocol Engineers focus on designing and testing network protocols, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in networking environments and often share similar entry requirements, making them common points of comparison for those starting their IT careers.

More about Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Entry Level Engineers/Scientists/Chemists/Technicians

Entry Level Engineers/Scientists/Chemists/Technicians

ERG

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is hiring enthusiastic and highly motivated entry-level engineers, scientists, chemists, and technicians to provide technical support in the development, design, and execution of research projects for the U.S. EPA's Office of Research and Development. Research activities may include decontamination and consequence management research; development and validation of measurement methods; source emission characterization and data collection; studies in atmospheric sciences, physical, chemical, biological, toxicological, and human and ecological exposure; development, evaluation, and application of air quality simulation modeling in the Fluid Modeling Facility/Meteorological Wind Tunnel; and other related research initiatives. Work will involve specialized laboratories and machine shops, including fabrication machine shops, metrology laboratories, and other analytical and microbiological laboratories.

As an entry-level professional, you will play an integral role in designing, developing, and optimizing solutions while executing technical projects. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience while collaborating with seasoned experts. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical foundation, excellent problem-solving abilities, and the capability to work effectively across teams to drive innovation. You will also provide input to senior staff in preparing work plans, quality assurance project plans (QAPPs), health and safety plans, and reports for projects performed by ERG.

Job Description:
  • Assist in designing, developing, and testing new processes or experiments under the guidance of senior engineers, scientists, or technicians
  • Support the preparation of technical reports, data analysis, and project documentation
  • Troubleshoot, maintain, calibrate, and repair laboratory and field equipment
  • Execute technical projects under the direction of senior staff
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement innovative engineering or scientific solutions
  • Follow all safety protocols and requirements in laboratory and field settings, ensuring compliance with company policies
  • Contribute to ongoing projects by collecting data, performing tests, and compiling results
  • Assist in preparing project plans, schedules, and materials needed for project execution
  • Present technical findings, project progress, and results under the guidance of senior staff to leadership, clients, or at conferences as appropriate
  • Work closely with senior staff to gain hands-on exposure to project management, design processes, and technical problem-solving
Qualifications and Skills:
  • B.S. degree in Environmental, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field
  • Relevant experience in lieu of a degree will be considered
  • Strong analytical, mechanical, and problem-solving skills
  • Demonstrated aptitude and interest in science, technical work, mechanical equipment, chemistry, and air quality
  • Hands-on experience in a laboratory, technical setting, or engineering project (academic or professional)
  • Experience in mechanical work, laboratory research, or field science preferred
  • Knowledge of EPA source test methods/procedures, air quality or emissions monitoring equipment, and related techniques preferred
  • Ability to travel as needed for field projects across the country
  • Ability to pass background checks and initial and random drug screenings
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred, or equivalent experience hauling trailers over long distances
$50,000 - $60,000 a year
ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience. 
  
ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  
   
Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. 
  
If you're a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG's online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at [email protected] or call (781) 674-7293. 
  
ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization. 
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