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Network Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Lab Operations Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$103K - $201K/yr

Apple's silicon engineering labs are where breakthrough ideas meet rigorous validation. As a Lab ... network analyzers and optical systems - enabling the teams around you to gain confidence in results ...

Calpine

Process Control Engineer III

Middletown, CA

$109K - $139K/yr

... Control Engineer for Calpine Geysers - Primarily responsible for work on balance of plant and ... Support OT systems as required, including working with virtual servers and network. * Lead informal ...

Calpine

Process Control Engineer III

Middletown, CA · On-site

$109K - $139K/yr

... Control Engineer for Calpine Geysers - Primarily responsible for work on balance of plant and ... Support OT systems as required, including working with virtual servers and network. * Lead informal ...

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All JobsNetwork Engineer JobsNetwork Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Network Engineer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$33.9K

$119.2K

$172.7K

How much do network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for network engineer in Santa Rosa, CA is $119,216.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,300.00 and $146,000.00 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.
More about Network Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Network Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Network Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Network Engineer job openings:
Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Network Engineer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,216 per year, or $57.3 per hour.
Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Viavi Solutions

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Summary:

VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications.
We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company - to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.

Duties & Responsibilities:

The Role

VIAVI Solutions manufactures advanced optical thin-film and pigment coating products across a 24/7 production environment in Santa Rosa, CA, with additional sites in China and Arizona. This Controls Engineer position balances two priorities: keeping automation running in an active manufacturing operation, and leading new capital project work - machine installations, system upgrades, and next-generation automation platforms. For the right candidate, this role has a clear path into engineering leadership and management of VIAVI's Automation Controls group.

Manufacturing Support

  • Resolve PLC/HMI faults rapidly to restore production

  • Support planned maintenance windows and change deployments

  • Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions

  • Improve control logic, alarming, and system reliability

  • Partner closely with maintenance and operations teams

🔧 New Capital Projects

  • Own automation scope on new machine installations

  • Define PLC/HMI/network architecture for new systems

  • Manage vendors, FAT/SAT, and project documentation

  • Commission and validate systems into Operations

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain PLC and HMI systems for manufacturing equipment

  • Commission new automation hardware and software; integrate with existing infrastructure

  • Configure and commission motor drives, motion systems, and closed-loop control systems

  • Design and administer SQL databases; manage industrial networks (Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC)

  • Maintain source control, documentation, and change records for all control system work

  • Lead or contribute to capital project scoping, scheduling, and execution

  • Mentor junior engineers; collaborate across Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams

  • Demonstrate communication and leadership skills aligned with future management growth

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, Automation, or equivalent experience

  • 5+ years in industrial controls/automation in a manufacturing environment

  • PLC programming: Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal or Mitsubishi GX Developer

  • Experience supporting automation in 24/7 or continuous production environments

  • Programming with Visual Studio, C#

  • End-to-end ownership of capital project automation scope

  • HMI development, industrial networking, SQL databases, source code management

  • Strong troubleshooting skills; ability to read electrical schematics and P&IDs

  • Excellent communication skills; occasional international travel required

Preferred Skills

  • Allen-Bradley / Rockwell or Honeywell PLC platforms

  • LabVIEW, Wonderware System Platform, Oracle, Linux, Windows administration

  • Vision systems, vacuum coating processes, optics knowledge

  • Prior team-lead experience

Leadership & Management Growth Path - High performers will have the opportunity to eventually lead the Controls team technically and move into formal management of VIAVI's Automation Controls Engineering group. Growth is supported through stretch assignments, leadership visibility, and formal development planning.

If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.

VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer - minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.

Job Posting Pay Range:

134,400

to

249,600

Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.

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