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Network Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Network Manager, the Senior Network Engineer is seen as a technical expert in Network Engineering infrastructure. This is a technical and hands on role, with a primary focus on ...

IMC is seeking experienced Network Engineers who are passionate about building and operating cutting-edge, high-performance networks. You'll work closely with traders, developers, quants, and ...

We''re now looking for a talented Network Engineer to join their team, a spot that''s opened up because the person who held it just got promoted. That''s not a coincidence, it''s a pattern. If you ...

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Network Engineer to support and enhance enterprise networking operations in Chicago, Illinois. This role focuses on building reliable, secure connectivity across on ...

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

IMC is seeking experienced Network Engineers who are passionate about building and operating cutting-edge, high-performance networks. You'll work closely with traders, developers, quants, and ...

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 ...

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

IMC is seeking experienced Network Engineers who are passionate about building and operating cutting-edge, high-performance networks. You'll work closely with traders, developers, quants, and ...

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Network Engineer to provide comprehensive network support across multiple customer sites. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with LAN and ...

Abacus Technology is seeking a Network Engineer to provide infrastructure support of data networks for an enterprise program at Scott AFB. This is a full-time position. * Provide network analysis and ...

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Network Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the Client's network ...

Network Engineer

Edwardsville, IL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Network Engineer Position: Contract (12 months) conversion or other projects unknown after assignment. Location: Edwardsville, IL. Pay: $45.00 to $50.00 an hour (depending on experience). Hours: 7:30 ...

Overview Abacus Technology is seeking a Network Engineer to provide infrastructure support of data networks for an enterprise program at Scott AFB. This is a full-time position. Responsibilities

NextRow is looking to hire a Network Engineer (contract role). Any experience in Hospitality industryis a big plus. This role has both operational and strategic responsibilities, along with ...

Overview Abacus Technology is seeking a Network Engineer to provide infrastructure support of data networks for an enterprise program at Scott AFB. This is a full-time position. Responsibilities

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Showing results 1-20

Network Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$105.7K

$153.1K

How much do network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for network engineer in Illinois is $105,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,200.00 and $129,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What exactly do network engineers do?

Network engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They troubleshoot network issues, configure hardware and software, and ensure network security, often using tools like routers, switches, and firewalls. Certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ are commonly required for this role.

What does a Network Engineer do?

A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video, and wireless network services. They ensure network reliability and performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize network security. Network Engineers work with hardware and software, coordinate with other IT professionals, and often manage upgrades or expansions to meet an organization's needs.

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

To thrive as a Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of network protocols, routing and switching, and typically hold a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco IOS, network monitoring software, and certifications such as CCNA or CCNP are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure set top performers apart. These skills ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of network infrastructure, which is critical for organizational connectivity and security.

What Does a Network Engineer Do?

Network Engineers support and optimize all processes for maintaining a company’s computer network, selecting and deploying software and hardware and making local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs) accessible, and making sure that company personnel can securely access the internet to complete work. Network Engineers also analyze network performance, configure network features based on client needs, and develop guidelines for acceptable network use.

Is AI going to replace network engineers?

AI is unlikely to fully replace network engineers, as their role involves complex problem-solving, system design, and troubleshooting that require human expertise. Instead, AI tools are expected to augment their work by automating routine tasks, allowing engineers to focus on more strategic and advanced network management. Continuous learning and certifications in networking and automation are important for staying relevant in this evolving field.

What is the difference between Network Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetwork EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting network infrastructureManaging and maintaining existing network systems
ResponsibilitiesNetwork design, configuration, and optimizationMonitoring, maintaining, and supporting network operations
Industry UsageIT, telecommunications, large enterprisesCorporate, small to medium businesses, educational institutions

While both roles involve working with networks, Network Engineers focus on designing and building network systems, whereas Network Administrators manage and support existing networks. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their network needs.

Are network engineers still in demand?

Network engineers are still in demand due to ongoing growth in IT infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity needs. They typically require skills in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ to stay competitive in the job market.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior network engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications (such as CCIE), and expertise in areas like cybersecurity or large-scale infrastructure can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living regions or executive roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

What are some common challenges Network Engineers face when managing large-scale enterprise networks?

Network Engineers working with large-scale enterprise networks often encounter challenges such as ensuring network security across multiple locations, minimizing downtime during upgrades or maintenance, and troubleshooting complex connectivity issues. They may also need to balance high availability with performance, manage diverse hardware and software, and coordinate with cross-functional teams like cybersecurity and IT support. Staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies and addressing scalability concerns are key aspects of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Network Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Network Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,662 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Location: ONSITE- Chicago or Remote
Duration: 6 months
Role: Network Engineer
Descriptions:
Will work with Infrastructure leadership, other IS teams and business units to engineer, recommend, plan technical projects to meet network reliability, tactical, performance, or controls needs.
Analyzes business needs; gather requirements, designs, installs, troubleshoots, and supports technical solutions in a world-class infrastructure.
Develops and documents models, plans, diagrams, illustrations, and procedures in support of engineering activities and network related business initiatives.
Participates in regular meetings and conference calls with customers and IT staff to help qualify opportunities and technical solutions.
Creates capital expenditure (CAPEX) requests and tracks the progress of hardware & software orders.
10+ year's experience in network engineering. Experience network engineering and operation with an enterprise organization preferred.
5+ years of experience leading project teams and/or mentoring junior engineers.
In depth knowledge and understanding of networking technologies, design principles, and the practical application of routers, switches, virtualization, storage, storage networking virtualization/zoning, load-balancers and network security.
Experience working with SDN solutions such as Cisco ACI, VMware VNX Knowledge of network security solutions such as firewalls, VPNs, Intrusion detection/prevention, and web application firewalls.
Strong technical knowledge and experience in several of the following (certification a plus):
Cisco Routing/Switching, spine/leaf architecture
F5 LTM/GTM
Cisco UCS & Nexus
Cisco ACI
Cisco WAAS, WCCP
Cisco security solutions
Cisco ISE
Palo Alto Networks firewalls and security solutions QoS, prioritization of voice and video Network automation Proven understanding of network segmentation/isolation, encryption architectures Strong documentation skills and experience generating technical documents, diagrams, solutions specifications, guidelines, processes, and procedures.
Scripting skills are a plus
Excellent communications and customer service skills with proven ability to communicate professionally in a corporate environment.
Experience in standardizing and automating network configuration and deployment Experience with software and hardware troubleshooting and system monitoring.
Ability to work nights and weekends as needed for implementations and being a point of escalation
Keyword:
Skills: Palo Alto~Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure(ACI)~CNS_Network Security_Cisco Experience Required: 6-8