Executive Wireless Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Who is Trace3?
Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate.
Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it!
Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco.
Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology?
Come Join Us!
Street-Smart - Thriving in Dynamic Times
We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the "big picture." We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems.
Juice - The "Stuff" it takes to be a Needle Mover
We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentally mapping out every checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like.
Teamwork - Humble, Hungry and Smart
We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it's due and demonstrate transparency. We "bring the weather" by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures - not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us.
About the Role:
Under the general direction of the Manager, Professional Service, the Engineer will provide clients with remote and on-site support services across North America (and international locations, as applicable) in a wide range of client environments. Physical Infrastructure design/Installation, wireless design, and hardware configuration are standard tasks the Engineer will perform. Environments can include, but are not limited to, traditional data center facilities, warehouses, office buildings, MDF/IDF closets, headends, and remote outdoor facilities.
*** This is a 100% Onsite requirement with heavy travel***
What You'll Do:

• Accurately document network infrastructure and design.
• Perform systems engineering, design, analysis, and experimentation of wireless networks.
• Plan, design, engineer, configure, maintain, defend, troubleshoot, and repair classified and unclassified wireless LANs, including wireless access points and their interconnection to the wired infrastructure.
• Provide recommendations for wireless network optimization, additions, and upgrades to meet requirements.
• Perform RF coverage studies, throughput testing,g and wireless site surveys.
• Conduct a root cause analysis of communication issues.
• Lead/assist with proof-of-concept trials with new technologies.
• Develop and maintain standards, reports, and various other types of documentation.
• Determine Wireless Access Point (WAP) placement to optimize coverage across various client environments.
• Conduct client-facing meetings (in person/virtual) in a professional manner.
• Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Identify building structural components to safely and securely accommodate wall-mounted infrastructure.
• Installation and decommission of all types of enterprise-level equipment and infrastructure in various types of environments.
• Configure various devices (laptops, desktops, servers, switches) with static IP addresses, subnets, gateways, and DNS servers.
• Research /resolve unforeseen problems with little to no consultation.
• Provide guidance and shadowing opportunities for lower-level technicians to ensure adherence to best practices.
• Perform firmware and/or BIOS updates on server, storage, and networking hardware platforms.
• Support lower-level peers in performing crisis management in the event of critical situations or major service outages.
• Provide remote console access to various devices via WebEx, Teams, or Zoom screen sharing.
• Perform basic or pre-defined tasks as directed by the team lead.
• Actively participate during the service transition phase to perform knowledge transfer and documentation.
• Review, report, and maintain accurate records, document all issues/concerns, and submit to the client.
• Assist in performing root cause analysis.
• Determine when/if escalation to leadership is necessary.
• May perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Follow the company's best practices and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Travel is required for physical network installation and configuration.

Qualifications & Interests:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in enterprise-level network design and support, including: IEEE 802.1, WAN/LAN, optimization, load balancing, routing, switching, QOS, TCP/IP, P2P, and P2MP wireless equipment, with hands-on experience administering Cisco wireless access points and controllers.
• A valid Driver's Licence is required.
• Prior MSP experience desired.
• Thorough understanding of Ekahau Pro Suite and Sidekick functionality.
• CompTIA A+ certification preferred.
• CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA certifications (or equivalent experience preferred).
• Ability to conduct clear and concise communication in English (written and verbal).
• Fundamental understanding of all Office365 products and their operation.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Thorough understanding of subnetting (Ex, 255.255.255.0 = /24)
• Thorough understanding of console connectivity and OOB management.
• Ability to identify power circuits and circuit breakers.
• Ability to properly identify various device port assignments.
• Ability to identify various power receptacle types (NEMA 5-15, C13/14/15, C19/20, L5-20, L6-30, etc.).
• Ability to properly identify various device port types (RJ45-Console, DB9, SFP, RJ45 Ethernet).
• Ability to properly identify various fiber optic cables and optics (LC, SC, FC, Single Mode, Multimode, SR vs LR Optics).
• Ability to properly terminate and test CAT5 and CAT6 cables (Keystones, punch down panels, and ends).
• Ability to properly run power/data cables, label and dress to Trace3 standards.
• Thorough comprehension of fiber and copper patch panel function and A-Z port identification.
• Ability to travel domestically up to 85% - 90% of the time.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This role blends active movement with desk-based responsibilities. Candidates should be comfortable with:

• Standing and walking for long stretches across different areas of the facility.
• Lifting items-sometimes heavy, up to 65 to 200 pounds (assisted)-including navigating stairs and placing objects overhead.
• Occasionally, working from ladders when tasks require elevation.
• Performing physical motions such as bending, crouching, and reaching on a regular basis.
• Sitting for extended periods while handling administrative or computer-related tasks.
• Reading printed documents and screens with clarity, including close-up work and adjusting focus as needed.
• Communicating effectively in person and by phone, with clear hearing and speech.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• The job takes place in environments where animals are present, which may involve exposure to pet dander, medical tools, and related substances.
• Travel by car and air (up to 75%) is required.
• Employees will often be surrounded by coworkers and clients, with frequent conversations happening nearby.
• Noise levels and indoor temperatures may fluctuate depending on the setting.

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ. Certain positions may also be eligible for variable incentive compensation, such as bonuses or commissions, that is not included in the base salary.
Estimated Pay Range
$85,000-$95,000 USD
The Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
• Competitive Compensation
• Training and development programs
• Major offices stocked with snacks and beverages
• Collaborative and cool culture
• Work-life balance and generous paid time off

Our Commitment
At the core of Trace3's DNA is our people. We are a diverse group of talented individuals who understand the importance of teamwork and demonstrating leadership, character, and passion in all that we do.
We're committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to grow. We recognize that embracing diversity drives innovation, improves outcomes, fosters collaboration, boosts teammate satisfaction, and builds a more inclusive culture.
As an equal opportunity employer, Trace3 bases all employment decisions based on individual qualifications, merit, and business requirements. We do not engage in discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Any demographic information provided is strictly voluntary, kept confidential in accordance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regulations, and will not be used in employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, or mentorship programs. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process or participate in an interview, please email recruiting@trace3.com.
***To all recruitment agencies: Trace3 does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to our careers email addresses, Trace3 employees or any other company location. Trace3 is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.