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Network Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

LRS Consulting Services is seeking an Associate Network Engineer for a contract to hire opportunity with our client in Central, IL. LRS Consulting Services has been delivering the highest quality ...

... Associate Cisco Certified Network Professionals Network design experience - LAN, WAN and Wireless Advanced understanding and experience with Enterprise Network Infrastructure and Topology o WAN, LAN ...

... Certified Network Associate => Cisco Certified Network Professionals => Network design experience - LAN, WAN and Wireless => Advanced understanding and experience with Enterprise Network ...

CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate (required). * CCNP - Cisco Certified Network Professional (preferred). Preferred/Desired Skills: Exposure to network automation tools, including: * Ansible ...

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or working toward certification * HPE Aruba: Exposure to Aruba networking solutions or entry-level certifications Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA) or ...

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Network Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$37.3K

$64.7K

$117.3K

How much do network associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for network associate in Illinois is $64,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a network associate?

A network associate is responsible for supporting and maintaining computer networks, including installing, configuring, and troubleshooting network hardware and software. They often work with network protocols, security measures, and monitoring tools to ensure network performance and security. Certification such as CompTIA Network+ can be beneficial for this role.

What are some typical challenges a Network Associate may face during network troubleshooting, and how can they be addressed?

Network Associates often encounter issues such as intermittent connectivity, hardware failures, or configuration errors. These challenges require strong analytical skills to diagnose the root cause, as well as familiarity with common network diagnostic tools and protocols. Collaborating with senior network engineers and documenting troubleshooting steps are effective strategies to resolve problems efficiently and prevent recurrence. Staying current with emerging technologies and regular training can also help Network Associates handle complex issues more confidently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Network Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Associate, you need foundational knowledge of networking concepts, troubleshooting, and security, typically backed by a degree in information technology or a related field. Familiarity with network hardware, Cisco or Juniper devices, and certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in supporting users and collaborating with IT teams. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable network performance, minimize downtime, and contribute to overall organizational productivity.

What is the difference between Network Associate vs Network Technician?

AspectNetwork AssociateNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (preferred)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (preferred)
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, network support rolesFieldwork, on-site troubleshooting
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with network setup, monitoring, and basic troubleshootingInstalling, maintaining, and repairing network hardware and connections

Both roles often require similar certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA. Network Associates typically work in office environments supporting network operations, while Network Technicians often perform hands-on hardware installation and repairs on-site. The roles are closely related, with Network Associates focusing more on support and monitoring, and Network Technicians on physical network infrastructure maintenance.

What are Network Associates?

Network Associates are IT professionals responsible for helping design, implement, manage, and troubleshoot computer networks within an organization. They support network infrastructure such as routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points, ensuring reliable connectivity and network performance. Network Associates often monitor network activity, assist with network security, and resolve connectivity issues. This entry-level role is key for organizations to maintain efficient and secure communication systems.

What is the highest paying networking job?

The highest paying networking jobs typically include roles such as Network Architect, Senior Network Engineer, or Network Security Manager, which require advanced skills, certifications like Cisco CCNP or CCIE, and extensive experience. These positions often offer six-figure salaries, especially in large organizations or specialized industries.

What entry level jobs can you get with Network+?

Network+ certification qualifies individuals for entry-level roles such as network technician, help desk technician, or IT support specialist. These positions involve troubleshooting network issues, maintaining hardware, and supporting network infrastructure, often requiring familiarity with networking tools and protocols.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as senior network engineers, cybersecurity consultants, and IT project managers, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. These positions typically involve complex technical skills, leadership responsibilities, and sometimes consulting or contract work in high-demand industries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Network jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Network Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Network Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Associate job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,733 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Associate Network Engineer

LRS

Urbana, IL

$30 - $45/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Description LRS has prospered for over 30 years because our corporate philosophy embraces honest, ethical and hard-working people. If that describes your approach to IT consulting, we need to talk. LRS Consulting Services is seeking an Associate Network Engineer for a contract to hire opportunity with our client in Central, IL.

LRS Consulting Services has been delivering the highest quality consultants to our clients since 1979. We've built a solid reputation for dealing with our clients and our consultants with honesty, integrity, and respect. We work hard every day to maintain that reputation, and we're very interested in candidates who can help us.

If you're that candidate, this opportunity is made for you. POSITION SUMMARY Under general direction, the Network Engineer Associate is responsible for triaging trouble tickets and work orders, troubleshooting and resolving network access and performance problems, making basic configuration changes to routers, switches, and wireless access points, performing routine network closet inspections and maintenance, and assisting the Network Engineers with projects and infrastructure upgrade deployments. SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS Knowledge of methods and techniques used to configure and troubleshoot Cisco, HP/Aruba, and other brands of network equipment.

Ability to prioritize tickets/work requests and gather all necessary information needed to troubleshoot issues. Ability to respond to all inquiries in a timely manor. Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.

Ability to read and understand maintenance manuals and to work from sketches, drawings, and diagrams. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and vendors. Ability to carry-out maintenance plans and repair schedules.

Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational skills, and customer service skills. Ability to lift, carry, and install network equipment and UPS equipment into racks and cabinets. Assist Network Engineers with tasks as needed.

ESSENTIAL STANDARD JOB FUNCTIONS Act as first responder to network trouble tickets including: LAN switching, WAN connectivity, wireless networking, client VPN access, and network performance issues Perform routine troubleshooting, installation and maintenance on switches, routers, wireless equipment, network cabling, and UPS's Respond to network monitoring alerts to proactively solve problems Assist with documentation of network designs and configurations Enter all information and details of work performed into trouble ticket system The base range for this contract position is $30.00 - $45.00 per hour, depending on experience. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires of this position across all US locations

Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. LRS is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for employment will receive consideration without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, gender identity, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship, status or protected veteran status.

In some cases, LRS Consulting uses generative artificial intelligence ("AI") in support of our hiring processes. LRS takes steps to ensure the use of AI does not result in discrimination based on protected class(es). AI may be used in the hiring process solely in support of the assessment of candidate qualifications.

All decisions in the hiring process are made by LRS employees. If AI will be used in the hiring process for the position for which you are applying, you will be notified and will have the opportunity to opt out. If you have any questions, please contact us by clicking here.