1

Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (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 ...

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 ...

The Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, automating, monitoring, and supporting complex multi-vendor network environments across campus, SD-WAN, wireless, and cloud platforms ...

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 ...

The Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, automating, monitoring, and supporting complex multi-vendor network environments across campus, SD-WAN, wireless, and cloud platforms ...

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

Network Engineer Location : Franklin Park, IL Job Type : Permanent Full Time Experience working with Nexus 5K, 7K switches Experience with ASA firewall Experience with F5 loadbalancer CCNA or CCNP ...

Proactively monitor the network and provide capacity planning * Participate in the on-call support rotation and some weekend work * Mentor junior engineers from a technical perspective Requirements

next page

Showing results 1-20

Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$112.4K

$162.9K

How much do network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for network engineer in Chicago, IL is $112,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $137,600.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Network Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Network Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,415 per year, or $54 per hour.
Network Engineer

Network Engineer

Apex Informatics

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Client: Northern Trust Bank
Location: Hybrid onsite in Chicago (local only)
Interview Mode: Virtual Interview
Type: Contract
Work authorization: Cannot work with OPT or CPT
Rate: 50/hr W2
Focus is on data and network, Layer Systems and Cisco
Local to Chicago
Must be onsite (3 days a week, could be 5 at times)
Senior Network Engineer-
-focus on data and network, Layer Systems and Cisco
Project Overview: The Contractor will have experience of working in high impact, mission critical environments where service matters and exceeding expectations is the norm.
Contractor' Role: 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 design, implementation and support of network engineering changes; you will be expected as well to provide support to the network management and performance operations team with complex troubleshooting of issues as required.
Key responsibilities
The Senior Network Engineer's primary areas of responsibility include ensuring there are defined standards in place, manage the technical lifecycle of products and services and deliver change/transformation against created designs; always ensuring a smooth transition/handover to Network Operations.
Qualifications:
• 10+ years hands on experience as a network engineering lead within a global enterprise scale organization (5,000-50,000 users) with both traditional Datacenter and Cloud (Azure/AWS).
• You will have considerable first-hand experience of design engineering and building resilient and scalable engineering solutions, ideally within finance or investment banking.
• Strong background in Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Aruba, SDWAN, routing switching, datacentre infrastructure and technologies.
• Solid knowledge of configuration automation tools such as Ansible, Yaml, Chef, Puppet, Terraform.
• In depth knowledge of Layer 2, Layer 3, TCP/IP, and network protocols such as Ether-Channel (LACP,MC-LAG), Virtual Chassis, STP and SNMP.
• Solid understanding of routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, RIP, MBGP, VXLAN, TCP/IP and IPv6.
• Solid understanding of Datacenter Spine/leaf architectures using Cisco ACI or Arista spine/leaf, or others.
• Familiarity with SDWAN infrastructure such as Silverpeak.
• Familiarity with Layer 3, 4 and 7 load balancing methodologies and protocols as well as experience with highly available network and system architectures.
• Knowledge of 801.11a/g/n/ac Cisco WLC, WLAN, CAPWAP,LWAPP and other Wireless technologies.
• Experience with Cisco IOS/NX-OS/ASA-OS, JunOS, ArubaOS and/or Arista
• Solid knowledge in the use of various monitoring tools and packet capture tools such as Solarwinds Orion NCM/NPM, Wireshark, Gigamon, Netscout, Cisco DNA, etc.
• Good in software development lifecycle, ITIL, Agile, Kanban process
• You will be familiar with a variety of testing tools, networking technologies and techniques to accurately troubleshoot and resolve complex technical problems associated with the service, application and network hardware and software.
• Cisco Routing & Switching. Juniper, Arista, Aruba, Silverpeak.
• BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, Layer2/Layer 3, STP, SNMP.
• Solarwinds Orion NCM/NPM, Netscout, Gigamon and Wireshark.
• Cloud automation Azure/AWS
• Ansible and/or Puppet automation tools. Python scripting.
• Workflow automation
• Layer 2 and Layer 3 and Layer 4-7 protocols
• WAN Optimization
• DNS, IPAM and DHCP
Personal Attributes
• You will be highly organized and have proven ability to operate well under pressure, working to tight deadlines
• You will have good problem management and customer service skills.
• You will have a positive attitude and be capable of remaining positive even when under immense pressure.
• You will be able to work with global teams to deliver projects, often at pace and under challenging circumstances.
• You are someone with high professional standards, who never accepts the status-quo; who challenges why things are done the way they are.
• You will be a strong communicator, both written and verbal
• You discourage hero culture and ensure the team always comes before the individual, although always ensuring for the welfare of staff at all times.
• You will always act with integrity and embrace the philosophy of treating our customers fairly (compulsory)
• You will work effectively as one IT community across the regions and the business
• You will embrace the philosophy and principles of group IT
• You understand and apply Northern Trust's working practices, policies and procedures
Nice to haves:
• Cisco ACI
• CCIE
• Wireshark and high skilled troubleshooting tools.
• JNCIA-Junos
• CWNA
• ITILv3 foundation or higher
• Cisco CCNP Networks
Tasks & Responsibilities
• Responsible for defining and documenting Network Engineering Standards
• Responsible for the creation of Low Level Design documents to meet requirements outlined in the High Level Design
• Responsible for the creation of detailed Implementation Plans for all engineering related activity
• Responsible for Procurement activities relating to build and delivery of new services (Project)
• Responsible for ensuring the smooth Transition/Handover to Operations in line with agreed Operational Acceptance Process
• Responsible for managing Technical Lifecycle Management for all Network & Communications services
• Responsible for supporting Architecture in creation and upkeep of a Delivery Roadmap for Network Engineering
• Responsible for supporting the Architecture in scoping activities required to produce the High Level Design
• Responsible for supporting Architecture in undertaking Proof of Concept activities
• Responsible for ensuring skillsets are relevant and up to date in order to deliver change and provide a high level of support
• Responsible for providing escalation support to Operations with complex troubleshooting of Major Incidents as required
• Provide on call escalation support (rota basis) and work extended hours as and when required