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Junior Level Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

1 point system

Network Engineer

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

We are seeking a Sr-Level Network Engineer to support Exelon's network refresh programs across multiple projects, including branch refreshes and real estate/customer initiatives (e.g., new site ...

City Of Gary

JR. Network Engineer

Gary, IN · On-site

$56K/yr

Chief Innovation Officer Status: Full-Time The Jr. Network Engineer reporting to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is responsible for the provisioning, installation, configuration, operation, and ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$33 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the installation and maintenance of our client's network infrastructure. This position offers hands-on ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the installation and maintenance of our client's network infrastructure. This position offers hands-on ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$33 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the installation and maintenance of our client's network infrastructure. This position offers hands-on ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the installation and maintenance of our client's network infrastructure. This position offers hands-on ...

IPsoft Inc.

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL

Our large portfolio of clients allows engineers to gain exposure to a wide variety of network ... higher level. Ability to mentor and train junior team members is strongly desired. Rockstar ...

TransMarket Group

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL

Design network solutions for TMG's automated trading infrastructure * Implement and maintain a high ... Mentor junior engineers from a technical perspective Requirements * Seasoned engineer, ideally with ...

Cboe Global Markets

Network Engineer - Operations

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a hands-on engineering role for experienced network technologists with deepexpertisein routing, MPLS, firewalls, and packet-level troubleshooting, combined with working knowledge of cloud ...

Ascend Technologies

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$86K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

NETWORK ENGINEER This is a fully remote position; however, occasional travel may be required ... Work with vendors for support case resolution. * Assist in mentorship/training of junior engineers.

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All JobsLevel Network Engineer JobsJunior Level Network Engineer JobsJunior Level Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Junior Level Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$67.1K

$95.8K

How much do junior level network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior level network engineer in Chicago, IL is $67,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $79,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by junior level network engineers in their first year on the job?

Junior Level Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar network issues, adapting to rapidly changing technologies, and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. They may also need to quickly learn how to document network changes accurately and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical team members. Gaining hands-on experience with complex equipment and navigating enterprise-level networks can be daunting initially, but these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help build a strong foundation for career growth.

What is a junior level network engineer?

Junior Level Network Engineers are entry-level professionals responsible for assisting in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network hardware and software. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to troubleshoot connectivity issues, monitor network performance, and ensure the security and reliability of network systems. These roles are ideal for those starting their careers in networking, as they provide foundational experience with routers, switches, firewalls, and various networking protocols. Junior engineers may also assist with documentation, user support, and the implementation of network upgrades as directed by senior staff.

What is the difference between Junior Level Network Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectJunior Level Network EngineerNetwork Technician
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (preferred)
ResponsibilitiesDesign, configure, troubleshoot network systems, assist in planningInstall, maintain, and repair network hardware and connections
Work EnvironmentOffice, data centers, network labsOn-site, hardware installation sites, support centers
Industry UsageIT companies, telecom providers, enterprise networksTelecom, IT support, hardware vendors

The main difference is that Junior Level Network Engineers focus on designing and troubleshooting network systems, often requiring some planning and configuration skills, while Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior level network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Level Network Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of networking concepts, troubleshooting, and basic security principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with network hardware, Cisco IOS, and certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help you effectively resolve issues and support users. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining network reliability, ensuring security, and enabling seamless connectivity within an organization.

What are popular job titles related to Junior Level Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Junior Level Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Level Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Level Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Junior Level Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Level Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,100 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Network Engineer

1 point system

Oakbrook Terrace, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:

  • We are seeking a Sr-Level Network Engineer to support Exelon’s network refresh programs across multiple projects, including branch refreshes and real estate/customer initiatives (e.g., new site builds). This role will be primarily focused on configuring and supporting Cisco routers and switches in a hybrid environment, with opportunities to work alongside senior engineers on large-scale deployments.
  • This position requires strong hands-on Cisco networking experience, familiarity with change request processes, and exposure to modern automation tools such as Ansible and Python.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

  • Configure, deploy, and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches in support of branch refresh and new site initiatives.
  • Assist with network refresh program execution, including staging, equipment shipping, and on-site coordination.
  • Submit and track change requests through ticketing systems, ensuring compliance with Exelon’s processes.
  • Collaborate with engineers, project stakeholders, and real estate teams to deliver on customer initiatives.
  • Participate in Agile processes (no daily standups; two-week sprint structure).
  • Document configurations, changes, and procedures for operational teams.
  • Provide support in analyzing and resolving network performance issues.
  • Contribute to team efforts in automation and infrastructure-as-code where applicable.

Required Qualifications:

  • 6–8 years of experience (only if with degree requirement in Computer Science or related, no degree = 8-10 yrs proven exp) as a Network Engineer in a Cisco environment.
  • Hands-on experience with Cisco routers and switches (configuration, deployment, and support).
  • Familiarity with SD-WAN technologies (exposure level acceptable).
  • Experience with ticketing/change request processes in enterprise environments.
  • Strong stakeholder communication and collaboration skills.

Certifications:

  • CCNA – Cisco Certified Network Associate (required).
  • CCNP – Cisco Certified Network Professional (preferred).

Preferred/Desired Skills:

Exposure to network automation tools, including:

  • Ansible (well-versed in YAML).
  • Python scripting.

Familiarity with Agile project methodologies.

Ability to work independently while supporting large, cross-functional teams.

Education exp – bypass

Background – Enterprise focus

Exp Utility sector a Plus

Fortune 200-500 a plus exp+