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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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

We are looking for a Network Engineer who is energized by the challenge of building and running one of the fastest, most reliable networks in the business. Key Responsibilities * Design, implement ...

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

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 ...

Network Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $100K/yr

Must have experience in network engineering/support within enterprise environments * Strong knowledge of routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP, etc.) * Hands-on experience ...

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Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$112.4K

$162.9K

How much do network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 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 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.

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.

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 job categories do people searching Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,415 per year, or $54 per hour.

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client in Chicago, IL that is seeking a Network Engineer for a contract role. This is a collaborative team of 5 Network Engineers.
Overview:
We are seeking a Network Engineer for a long-term contract opportunity. This role requires the ability to work onsite across both the downtown Chicago and Lake Forest offices while partnering closely with a geographically distributed engineering team. The ideal candidate brings strong hands-on networking experience across routing, switching, and wireless technologies, along with some exposure to cloud environments.
Responsibilities:
* Design, implement, and support enterprise network infrastructure
* Perform routing and switching configuration, troubleshooting, and optimization
* Support and maintain network access points and wireless connectivity
* Partner with a remote network engineering team to support ongoing initiatives
* Assist with cloud networking and integrations within Azure and AWS environments
* Diagnose and resolve network-related incidents and requests
* Document configurations, changes, and procedures using ITSM and ticketing tools
* Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure stable, secure, and scalable network operations
REQUIREMENTS:
* Proven experience in network engineering roles supporting enterprise environments
* Strong hands-on experience with: Routing and switching; Network access points / wireless technologies
* Working knowledge of Azure and AWS networking concepts
* Ability to work onsite in Chicago and travel between downtown and Lake Forest offices
* Experience working in a team-based, cross-location environment
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.