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Junior Networking Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Basic understanding of networking concepts and technologies. * Familiarity with network monitoring ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$33 - $38/hr

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the ... This position offers hands-on experience in networking, while working under Senior Network ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the ... This position offers hands-on experience in networking, while working under Senior Network ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$33 - $38/hr

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the ... This position offers hands-on experience in networking, while working under Senior Network ...

SDI Presence

Junior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

Summary The Junior Network Engineer Junior is an entry level role focused on supporting the ... This position offers hands-on experience in networking, while working under Senior Network ...

Joliet Junior College

Network Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

Joliet Junior College is an AA/EO employer and strongly encourages applications from candidates who ... networking certification. 3. Cisco, Microsoft or related experience. 4. Three (3) plus years of ...

paradigm

IT Network Engineer III

Lombard, IL · Hybrid

Remain current on networking, firewall, and security technologies and recommend improvements ... Provide guidance and mentorship to junior network engineers. * Collaborate closely with server ...

paradigm

IT Network Engineer III

Lombard, IL · Hybrid

Remain current on networking, firewall, and security technologies and recommend improvements ... Provide guidance and mentorship to junior network engineers. * Collaborate closely with server ...

Paradigm Corp.

IT Network Engineer III

Lombard, IL · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Remain current on networking, firewall, and security technologies and recommend improvements ... Provide guidance and mentorship to junior network engineers. * Collaborate closely with server ...

Nexuscomm LLC

Be Seen First

Ubiquiti UniFi Network & ICT Systems Technician

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

Act as the "Unifi Networking wizard" by troubleshooting intricate network issues and applying ... Mentor junior network engineers and technicians, sharing best practices, advanced troubleshooting ...

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All JobsNetworking JobsJunior Networking JobsJunior Networking Jobs in Chicago, IL

Junior Networking information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$74K

$112.8K

How much do junior networking jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior networking in Chicago, IL is $73,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $82,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior networking professional?

Junior Networking professionals are entry-level IT specialists who assist with the setup, management, and troubleshooting of computer networks. They work under the supervision of more experienced network engineers or administrators to ensure that an organization’s network infrastructure operates efficiently and securely. Their responsibilities often include monitoring network performance, configuring hardware such as routers and switches, and addressing basic connectivity issues. This role provides foundational experience for advancing to more senior networking positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior networking professional?

To thrive as a Junior Networking professional, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, TCP/IP protocols, and basic troubleshooting skills, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with network devices (routers, switches), network monitoring tools, and operating systems such as Windows and Linux is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring reliable network performance, quickly resolving issues, and supporting organizational IT infrastructure.

What are some typical challenges that junior networking professionals face in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Networking professionals often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex connectivity issues, navigating unfamiliar network hardware, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. It's common to feel overwhelmed when learning to configure devices and manage network security protocols in a real-world environment. To overcome these challenges, new professionals should seek mentorship from experienced team members, take advantage of on-the-job training, and regularly review documentation and best practices. Building strong communication skills is also crucial, as networking roles often require collaboration with IT support, system administrators, and other technical staff.

What is the difference between Junior Networking vs Network Technician?

AspectJunior NetworkingNetwork Technician
CertificationsEntry-level certifications like CompTIA Network+Often requires similar certifications, sometimes more specialized
Work EnvironmentSupportive, entry-level roles in IT teamsHands-on troubleshooting and maintenance in various settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with network setup, basic troubleshootingConfiguring, repairing, and maintaining network hardware and software

Junior Networking and Network Technician roles overlap in certifications and work environments, but Network Technicians typically perform more hands-on troubleshooting and hardware maintenance. Junior Networking roles often serve as entry points into networking careers, focusing on learning and support tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Networking jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Networking jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Junior Networking jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Junior Networking job openings:

Junior Networking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Networking job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,964 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Jr. Cisco Network /Security Engineer (L1)[Onsite]

Chicago, IL • On-site

SmartIPlace
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about SmartIPlaceexternal

Contractor

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position: Jr. Cisco Network /Security Engineer (L1)
Location: Chicago, IL - Hyde Park (On-Site)
Duration: 6-month C0ntract W/Contact to Hire option
Visa Status: GC/GC-EAD/USC
 
Job Description:
 
*** Strongly prefer someone with Consulting or PS experience "
 
Overview:
The JR. Cisco Network Security Engineer is an some experienced technical networking & security experience for  end-to-end solutions to complex business networking and communications problems for new and existing clients.   The jr. Network Security Engineer is responsible for supporting the current engagement (planning to close) to which they have been assigned. They will participate in evaluation, testing, selection, and deployment of network elements for a network buildout that ensures that solutions adhere to defined security standards and best practices and/or assist in the development of these standards and best practices.  The Jr. Network Engineer will staging network & security hardware.  
 
Requirements:
Must have 2-4 yr min of hands-on experience providing assistance to managed service customers within the agreed upon SLAs in our managed service contracts; inclusive of Installing, configuring, and troubleshooting security/network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers on Cisco routers, switches, wireless devices and firewalls inclusive of:
  • Cisco ACI;
  • Cisco ISE. (802.1x,MAB,Guest,BYOD
  • PaloAlto
  • Cisco Firepower Next-Generation firewalls
  • Cisco
  • Cisco TrustSec
  • Cisco SD-Access
  • DNA Center
  • Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC)
  • Cisco AnyConnect Security Mobility Client
 
Must have 2-4 years assisting perimeter and data security solutions including firewalls, intrusion detection / prevention, VPN’s, remote access and monitoring tools and be well-versed around Cisco and/or Palo Alto’s security portfolio. 
Expertise around the specific product list is preferred: Cisco ASA, Cisco FirePower (SourceFire), Cisco ISE, Palo Alto specially:
 
  • Experience designing and implementing policy-based (access control) for next-generation firewalls
  • Experience designing and implementing VPN (site-to-site, remote access, etc.)
  • Experience designing and implementing intrusion detection and intrusion prevention (SNORT rules)
 
3. Solid Experience with routing/switching protocols (EIGRP, BGP, HSRP, STP, LACP etc.), IP addressing and protocols (TCP/UDP)
4. Solid Experience with Cisco Nexus 5K, Fabric Extenders (2K) and NX-OS
5. Solid Experience with Site-to-Site VPNs, Remote Access VPNs and DMVPN
6. Solid Experience with Cisco ASA firewalls (site-to-site VPN and remote access VPN)
7. Solid Experience with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers (WLC), FlexConnect, high-availability and antennas.
8. Experience with WAN deployments including design, implementation and troubleshooting of various types of circuits (T-1, DS-3, MPLS, ELAN, DIA etc.).
9. Strong understanding TCP/IP, SNMPv2c/v3, NTP, AAA, TACACS, SSHv2, RADIUS, DNS, DHCP, LDAP and other standard protocols.
10. Professional networking certifications a plus (i.e. CCNA, CCNP, ACCP, or equivalent)
 
  • Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
  • Communication Skills
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Time Management and Prioritization
  • Attention to Detail Logistics and Accuracy
  • Customer Service and Support
  • Troubleshooting and Debugging
Smart-iPlace logo

About Smart-iPlace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SMART-iPLACE provides innovative staffing and consulting solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives. We can understand and support all areas of your IT systems from back-end infrastructure to front-end personal productivity. Our goal is create innovative IT solutions that enable your business to be more agile and competitive.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

2021

Social media

Facebook

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