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Mid Level Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Atria Group LLC

Mid Level Java Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... networking, and communications infrastructures. Our honest and realistic approach to recruiting dictates that AG does not entice or lure engineers from their employers. We represent only high caliber ...

Apex Informatics

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... of Low Level Design documents to meet requirements outlined in the High Level Design • ... Roadmap for Network Engineering • Responsible for supporting the Architecture in scoping ...

Wolverine

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Network Engineer Department: Technology Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago, IL ... Carry out high-level analysis and troubleshooting of the network infrastructure * Respond to ...

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All JobsMid Level Network Engineer JobsMid Level Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mid Level Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$112.3K

$162.8K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for mid level 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 does a mid level network engineer do?

A Mid Level Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting an organization's computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other data communication systems. They usually work with both hardware and software to ensure network reliability, security, and performance. Their role often involves configuring routers and switches, monitoring network traffic, and resolving technical issues to keep systems running smoothly. Mid level engineers may also assist with network upgrades and documentation, and often work closely with senior engineers and IT support teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mid level network engineer?

To thrive as a Mid Level Network Engineer, you need solid knowledge of networking protocols, troubleshooting, and infrastructure management, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field and industry certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with network monitoring tools, firewalls, routers, switches, and configuration management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across teams help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital to ensure network reliability, resolve issues efficiently, and support organizational connectivity needs.

What are some common challenges faced by mid level network engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Mid Level Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex connectivity issues, managing network upgrades with minimal downtime, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong diagnostic skills, staying updated through continuous learning and certifications, and collaborating closely with team members in IT support, security, and systems administration. Effective communication and documentation are also key to resolving issues efficiently and ensuring network reliability.

What is the difference between Mid Level Network Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectMid Level Network EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, troubleshoot network solutionsMaintain, monitor, and support existing networks
ResponsibilitiesNetwork design, upgrades, performance optimizationNetwork setup, daily operations, issue resolution

While both roles require similar certifications and work in network environments, Mid Level Network Engineers focus on designing and improving networks, whereas Network Administrators primarily manage and support existing network systems.

Are mid level network engineers in demand in 2026?

Mid-level network engineers are expected to remain in demand in 2026 due to ongoing growth in network infrastructure, cybersecurity needs, and cloud computing. Skills in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ enhance job prospects in this field.

Can you become a mid level network engineer with no experience?

Becoming a mid-level network engineer typically requires some prior experience in networking, as this role involves managing complex network systems and troubleshooting. Entry-level positions or internships can help build the necessary skills, and obtaining certifications like Cisco CCNA can also improve prospects, but starting directly at mid-level without experience is uncommon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Mid Level Network Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Mid Level Network Engineer job openings:

Mid Level Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mid Level Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% 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.

Mid Level Network/Infrastructure Engineer- remote with Travel

Calance US

Northbrook, IL • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

We are hiring Mid Level Network/Infrastructure Engineer- remote with Travel for a Full Time position in chicago, IL
Network/Infrastructure Engineer
Company Overview
We are a pioneering Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) company, focusing on delivering High-Performance Computing (HPC) solutions. Our cutting-edge data centers form the core of our operations, empowering us to offer unmatched computational resources to our global clientele. In line with our growth and the expansion of our services, we are looking for a motivated Junior Network/Infrastructure Engineer to join and grow with our team.
Position Summary The Network/Infrastructure Engineer plays a hands-on role in deploying the compute and network infrastructure that powers our high-performance computing environments. This role centers on data center deployment work: installing and configuring Proxmox hypervisors and virtual machines, assisting with BGP router deployments, standing up out-of-band (OOB) management fabrics on Unifi or NVIDIA switching, and helping build RDMA compute fabrics (primarily RoCEv2, with potential InfiniBand exposure). You will work under the guidance of senior engineers and travel to US data center sites to support new deployments, troubleshooting, and bring-up activities. This is an ideal role for someone with homelab and/or internship experience who is eager to learn enterprise-scale infrastructure from the ground up.
Work Arrangement & Location:
Remote with required travel
25-50% travel (nationwide)
Travel lasts 2-3 weeks and is typically every 2-3 months
Key Responsibilities
Virtualization & Compute Deployment
Install, configure, and maintain Proxmox hypervisors on bare-metal servers during data center deployments
Provision and manage virtual machines, including resource allocation, templates, and standardized deployment profiles
Perform routine patching, upgrades, and lifecycle maintenance of hypervisor hosts and guest VMs
Assist with server imaging, initial configuration, and validation during site bring-up
Network Deployment & Operations
Assist senior engineers with the deployment and initial configuration of BGP routers at new data center sites
Rack, cable, and configure out-of-band (OOB) management fabrics using Unifi or NVIDIA switches
Assist in building and validating RDMA compute fabrics, primarily RoCEv2, with opportunities to gain InfiniBand experience
Perform basic switch and router configuration tasks (VLANs, IP assignments, port configuration) under senior guidance
Help with cable management, labeling, and physical layer troubleshooting during deployments
Learn and apply IP addressing, subnetting, and IPAM documentation practices
Monitor network and infrastructure health using observability tools and escalate issues appropriately
Participate in a supported on-call rotation after an onboarding/ramp-up period
Automation & Tooling
Assist in developing and maintaining automation using Python and/or Ansible for provisioning, configuration, and routine operational tasks
Contribute to infrastructure-as-code playbooks as skills develop
Identify repetitive manual tasks that are candidates for automation
Collaboration & Documentation
Travel to data center locations within the US to support deployments, troubleshooting, and site bring-up (regular travel expected)
Maintain accurate documentation including runbooks, network diagrams, deployment procedures, and configuration records
Work closely with deployment engineers and operations teams during infrastructure builds
Learn from senior engineers through mentorship, pairing, and hands-on deployment work
Safety & Compliance
Adhere to strict data center safety protocols and operational standards during all on-site activities
Follow security best practices for system and network configuration and access control
Participate in regular safety training and briefings
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field preferred or equivalent hands-on experience, homelab work, or certifications
Experience in IT infrastructure, networking, or systems administration; internship and homelab experience strongly valued
Hands-on exposure to virtualization through work, coursework, or personal projects Proxmox experience is a strong plus (KVM, ESXi, or Hyper-V also relevant)
Foundational networking knowledge: IP addressing, subnetting, VLANs, and routing fundamentals; awareness of BGP concepts is a plus
Familiarity with consumer/prosumer or enterprise network gear (Unifi, Cisco, Arista, NVIDIA/Mellanox, etc.)
Interest in high-speed interconnects (RoCEv2, InfiniBand) prior exposure is a bonus
Working knowledge of Linux fundamentals (file systems, services, basic shell commands)
Some scripting or automation experience with Python, Bash, or Ansible strongly preferred
Willingness and ability to travel regularly to US data center locations for deployments
Comfortable with physical deployment work: racking equipment, cabling, and labeling in a data center environment
Strong desire to learn, take direction, and grow into more advanced networking and HPC work
Good troubleshooting instincts and a methodical approach to problem-solving
Solid written and verbal communication skills with attention to documentation
Availability to participate in an on-call rotation after ramp-up
Preferred Certifications
CompTIA Network+, Linux+, or Server+
CCNA or equivalent entry-level networking certification
Red Hat RHCSA or equivalent Linux certification
Any relevant virtualization or cloud fundamentals certification
What We Offer
A vibrant and stimulating work environment with strong mentorship and clear paths for professional growth
A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
An inclusive, team-oriented culture that values innovation, efficiency, and collaboration
Hands-on experience deploying cutting-edge HPC infrastructure, including RDMA fabrics and NVIDIA networking
A direct growth path toward senior network and infrastructure engineering roles
Estimated Pay Range: $120-150K

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