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Network Engineer Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Start is a paid internship program with the goal of developing students for future technical and ... We stimulate the economy through our network of recycling operations and mills, operating ten mills ...

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Network Engineer Internship information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$108.1K

$156.6K

How much do network engineer internship jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for network engineer internship in Virginia is $108,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,200.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Network Engineer Intern, you typically need foundational knowledge of networking concepts, protocols (such as TCP/IP), and a relevant degree pursuit in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with network simulation tools (like Cisco Packet Tracer), basic command-line interface skills, and exposure to certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork set standout interns apart. These skills are crucial for diagnosing network issues, supporting infrastructure projects, and contributing to reliable, secure network operations.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a Network Engineer Intern?

As a Network Engineer Intern, you’ll typically assist with configuring and maintaining network equipment, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and monitoring network performance. You may also be involved in documenting network layouts, supporting senior engineers with hardware or software upgrades, and participating in security audits. Interns often work closely with IT support and other engineering teams, gaining hands-on experience with real-world network infrastructures. This exposure not only helps you develop technical skills but also provides valuable insight into collaborative problem-solving in a professional environment.

What does a Network Engineer Intern do?

A Network Engineer Intern assists with the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of computer networks within an organization. They work under the supervision of experienced network engineers to learn about configuring routers, switches, and firewalls, as well as monitoring network performance and security. Interns may also help document network configurations and support end-users with connectivity issues. This role provides valuable hands-on experience with network infrastructure and technologies, helping interns build foundational skills for a career in network engineering.

What Are Network Engineer Internship Opportunities?

If you are a network engineering, computer science, or information security student, you can get a network engineer internship with a variety of companies in industries ranging from retail sales to software development. As an intern, your duties and responsibilities vary. You may assist in responding to help desk issues, managing a lab, maintaining an inventory of hardware, deploying and configuring networking equipment, and documenting configuration changes. You can also help evaluate and support the organization’s data and infrastructure security efforts, providing analysis of logs and monitoring network status. In some jobs, you also support and troubleshoot email systems and voice over IP phone systems and install and configure software according to company policy.

What is the difference between Network Engineer Internship vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetwork Engineer InternshipNetwork Administrator
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in IT or related fieldRelevant certifications like Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, learning-focused, supervised by senior staffFull-time role managing network operations, troubleshooting, and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in tech companies, telecom, or IT departmentsBusinesses, organizations, and service providers managing networks

The main difference is that a Network Engineer Internship is an entry-level, learning position designed for students or recent graduates, while a Network Administrator is a full-time role responsible for ongoing network management and troubleshooting. Internships provide hands-on experience, whereas administrators handle daily network operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Network Engineer Internship jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Network Engineer Internship job openings:
Junior Software Engineer Internship

Junior Software Engineer Internship

Clarity Innovations

Herndon, VA

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Our work focuses on creating software and data engineering platforms for customers throughout the DoD, IC and Federal Agency communities. We bring in students to work directly on our projects so that they can learn the basics of supporting CI/CD production and also the more complex nuances of government contracts. 

Program Goals

  • Learn: Professional growth during your internship can be exposure to the Cyber Operations domain, learning a new programming language, or perfecting a new tradecraft technique. 
     
  • Contribute: There is a seat at the table for every one of our interns from day one. It is our goal that by the time you leave, your fingerprint is on a true operational contribution. 
     
  • Have Fun: Your time in our program may be limited, but the memories will last. It is our goal that you enjoy your time here and want to come back.
     
  • Hire: The road doesn't end at just the internship! Our end state is to bring on former interns full time after completing their school work.

Role Expectations 

  • Pursuing a BS in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance (US Citizenship is required to get your clearance)
  • Experience with Go or Python (in the classroom or from another internship)
  • Understanding of network programming fundamentals, particularly with networking, data structures, and data models
  • Comfortable in a high-trust, adaptable team environment
  • Works to deliver on day-to-day objectives that may have a direct impact on the achievement of results for the team.  
  • Checks and makes minor adjustments to work methods to solve problems that are routine and typically exist in current work processes and systems. 
  • Communicates with contacts typically within the job area on matters that involve obtaining or providing information requiring some explanation or interpretation in order to reach agreement.
  • Requires basic job knowledge of systems and procedures obtained through prior work experience or education.
Additional Qualifications
  • Experience with CI/CD tools (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Experience building microservices (REST-based or otherwise)
  • Completion of CTF or other Hackathon challenges
  • Experience working in a professional environment