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Graduate Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Substitution Graduate study in the designated fields may be substituted for experience on a year ... Additional professional experience in network design, installation and maintenance may be ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Substitution Graduate study in the designated fields may be substituted for experience on a year ... Civil service status as a Network Engineer. Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater ...

Network Architecture

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$65.75 - $88.25/hr

... graduate-level coursework 2. Minimum of eight plus years of network support and systems-level programming 3. Cisco Certified Engineer strongly preferred 4. Experience with EMC storage arrays ...

Reverse-engineer and stress-test network and systems programming technologies in order to understand them better than the manufacturers. * Collaborate closely with Traders and with the Hardware and ...

Reverse-engineer and stress-test network and systems programming technologies in order to understand them better than the manufacturers. * Collaborate closely with Traders and with the Hardware and ...

Reverse-engineer and stress-test network and systems programming technologies in order to understand them better than the manufacturers. * Collaborate closely with Traders and with the Hardware and ...

As a Hardware Developer-New Graduate, you will work in our Chicago office, both independently and ... Your scope of responsibilities will span the entire network stack, from packet processing in FPGA ...

Reverse-engineer and stress-test network and systems programming technologies in order to understand them better than the manufacturers. * Collaborate closely with Traders and with the Hardware and ...

As a Hardware Developer-New Graduate, you will work in our Chicago office, both independently and ... Your scope of responsibilities will span the entire network stack, from packet processing in FPGA ...

Our new graduate hires work alongside experienced engineers and learn advanced skills in C ... Interest in using knowledge from several areas -- such as hardware, networking, OS design -- to ...

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or related field and a minimum of 6 years of prior relevant experience, or Graduate degree and ...

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Graduate Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$112.3K

$162.8K

How much do graduate network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate network engineer in Chicago, IL is $112,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate network engineer?

A Graduate Network Engineer is an entry-level role focused on designing, implementing, and maintaining network systems. They assist senior engineers with troubleshooting, configuring network devices, and ensuring network security and efficiency. Typically, they work with routers, switches, firewalls, and various networking protocols. This role provides hands-on experience and builds a foundation for career growth in networking and IT infrastructure.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a graduate network engineer?

As a Graduate Network Engineer, your daily tasks often include monitoring network performance, assisting with troubleshooting connectivity issues, configuring new hardware devices, and supporting senior engineers on larger projects such as network upgrades or migrations. You may also be involved in documenting network changes, responding to support tickets, and learning about emerging technologies relevant to the organization. Working closely with IT teams, you’ll collaborate to maintain overall system security and efficiency. The role provides ongoing learning opportunities and helps you build a strong foundation for future specialization or advancement in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the graduate network engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking concepts, troubleshooting skills, and a relevant degree such as computer science, information technology, or network engineering. Familiarity with networking hardware, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork abilities help you adapt and solve problems effectively in collaborative environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring reliable network performance, supporting colleagues, and advancing within rapidly evolving IT infrastructures.

Are graduate network engineers still in demand?

Graduate network engineers are still in demand as organizations continue to expand and upgrade their network infrastructure. Skills in network configuration, security, and certifications like Cisco CCNA can enhance job prospects in this field.
Infographic showing various Graduate Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,327 per year, or $54 per hour.

Network Engineer

MWRD

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Under supervision, designs, installs, maintains, troubleshoots and tests District Wide and Local Area data and telecommunications networks, or, under general supervision, assists in the development, monitoring and enforcement of the computer security program.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

  • Plans, designs, procures, installs and tests the performance of the Wide/Local Area network configurations and associated hardware and software.
  • Plans, designs, procures, installs and tests the performance of voice communications system hardware and software.
  • Assists in the planning, design, procurement, installation and performance monitoring of Windows client/server based systems.
  • Maintains and supports voice and data communications network hardware and software.
  • Under supervision, troubleshoots and resolves Wide/Local Area network and voice communication issues and anticipates and resolves potential future problems.
  • Assists in analyzing technology risks and security risks and notifies supervisor if warranted.
  • Assists in implementing policies, programs and procedures of a District-wide computer security program.
  • Assists in the review of new computer applications, network modifications and expansions for compliance with established policies and assists in the development of recommendations for security components.
  • Monitors and analyzes use of the computer network and conducts related investigations as assigned.
  • Assists in the development of security standards and procedures and conducts security testing and reviews as assigned.
  • Assists in the development and presentation of a computer training program in relation to computer security.
  • Provides technical support to other Information Technology Department staff as required and assists with account administration.
Other Job Functions
  • Assists in the review of products and resolution of problems with outside vendors and technical personnel.
  • Assists in the planning and implementation of network configurations and associated hardware and software.
  • Supports the data network including the installation, maintenance, and design of Wide/Local Area network.
  • Assists in maintenance and support to voice communications network hardware and software.
  • Provides after hours and weekend support when required.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Environmental Conditions

Work is performed in a typical office environment and requires the use of standard office equipment including computers.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of local area networks, wide area networks and distributed database systems.
  • Knowledge of communications equipment and associated operating systems.
  • Knowledge of computer architecture, operating systems and computer languages.
  • Knowledge of computer security principles, systems procedures and methodologies as well as security-related hardware and software.
  • Some knowledge of computer operating systems, programming languages and database management systems.
  • Interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform technical studies and to coordinate activities relating to planning, developing, implementing, controlling and revising the District’s networks.
  • Ability to review and recommend security systems for a variety of inter- and intra-departmental computer applications.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Graduation from a four-year accredited college or university majoring in information technology, computer science or a closely related field and two years of experience in the design, installation and maintenance of network communications including LAN/WAN systems.

Substitution

Graduate study in the designated fields may be substituted for experience on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years. Additional professional experience in network design, installation and maintenance may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. A Cisco CCNA certification may be substituted for one year of the required education or experience.

Promotional Requirement
  • Two years of service with the District as a Network Analyst or an IT Support Coordinator or four years of such service as an IT Support Analyst II.
  • Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications.
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater ChicagoNetwork Engineer (#20004115)General StatementUnder supervision, designs, installs, maintains, troubleshoots and tests District Wide and Local Area data and telecommunications networks, or, under general supervision, assists in the development, monitoring and enforcement of the computer security program.Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

  • Plans, designs, procures, installs and tests the performance of the Wide/Local Area network configurations and associated hardware and software.
  • Plans, designs, procures, installs and tests the performance of voice communications system hardware and software.
  • Assists in the planning, design, procurement, installation and performance monitoring of Windows client/server based systems.
  • Maintains and supports voice and data communications network hardware and software.
  • Under supervision, troubleshoots and resolves Wide/Local Area network and voice communication issues and anticipates and resolves potential future problems.
  • Assists in analyzing technology risks and security risks and notifies supervisor if warranted.
  • Assists in implementing policies, programs and procedures of a District-wide computer security program.
  • Assists in the review of new computer applications, network modifications and expansions for compliance with established policies and assists in the development of recommendations for security components.
  • Monitors and analyzes use of the computer network and conducts related investigations as assigned.
  • Assists in the development of security standards and procedures and conducts security testing and reviews as assigned.
  • Assists in the development and presentation of a computer training program in relation to computer security.
  • Provides technical support to other Information Technology Department staff as required and assists with account administration.
Other Job Functions
  • Assists in the review of products and resolution of problems with outside vendors and technical personnel.
  • Assists in the planning and implementation of network configurations and associated hardware and software.
  • Supports the data network including the installation, maintenance, and design of Wide/Local Area network.
  • Assists in maintenance and support to voice communications network hardware and software.
  • Provides after hours and weekend support when required.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Environmental Conditions

Work is performed in a typical office environment and requires the use of standard office equipment including computers.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of local area networks, wide area networks and distributed database systems.
  • Knowledge of communications equipment and associated operating systems.
  • Knowledge of computer architecture, operating systems and computer languages.
  • Knowledge of computer security principles, systems procedures and methodologies as well as security-related hardware and software.
  • Some knowledge of computer operating systems, programming languages and database management systems.
  • Interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform technical studies and to coordinate activities relating to planning, developing, implementing, controlling and revising the District’s networks.
  • Ability to review and recommend security systems for a variety of inter- and intra-departmental computer applications.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Graduation from a four-year accredited college or university majoring in information technology, computer science or a closely related field and two years of experience in the design, installation and maintenance of network communications including LAN/WAN systems.

Substitution

Graduate study in the designated fields may be substituted for experience on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years. Additional professional experience in network design, installation and maintenance may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. A Cisco CCNA certification may be substituted for one year of the required education or experience.

Promotional Requirement
  • Two years of service with the District as a Network Analyst or an IT Support Coordinator or four years of such service as an IT Support Analyst II.
  • Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications.
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