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Network Operations Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities Network Operations & Automation * Implement, maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot enterprise LAN, WAN, wireless, SD-WAN, and cloud network infrastructure. * Support Cisco and ...

Key Responsibilities Network Operations & Automation * Implement, maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot enterprise LAN, WAN, wireless, SD-WAN, and cloud network infrastructure. * Support Cisco and ...

Provide operational support for wireless technologies in warehouse and operational settings. * Day-to-Day Network Operations : Manage daily network activities at supported customer sites, including ...

IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

The Network Administrator supports daily IT operations by managing networks, troubleshooting issues, coordinating with vendors, guiding staff, and assisting with systems projects, quality reviews ...

Showing results 41-60

Network Operations information

See Illinois salary details

$48.9K

$115.6K

$156.5K

How much do network operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for network operations in Illinois is $115,590.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,100.00 and $156,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is network operations?

Network Operations refers to the processes and activities involved in managing, monitoring, and maintaining computer networks to ensure they run efficiently and securely. Professionals in network operations, often working in a Network Operations Center (NOC), are responsible for troubleshooting network issues, performing regular maintenance, and ensuring network uptime. They also monitor network performance, address security vulnerabilities, and implement necessary updates to keep the network running smoothly. Effective network operations are crucial for organizations that rely on continuous and secure data communication.

Is networking a high paying job?

Network operations roles often offer competitive salaries, especially for those with certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP and experience with network infrastructure, security, and troubleshooting. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and company size, but generally, networking jobs are considered well-paying within the IT industry.

What are some common challenges faced in a network operations role and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Network Operations often encounter challenges such as network outages, performance bottlenecks, and security incidents. These issues require quick troubleshooting, effective communication with cross-functional teams, and the use of monitoring tools to identify root causes. Regular training, clear escalation processes, and thorough documentation help teams manage these challenges efficiently. Additionally, staying updated on the latest network technologies and best practices is crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth network operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in network operations?

To thrive in Network Operations, you need a solid understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with network monitoring tools, firewalls, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure network reliability, quick resolution of issues, and efficient collaboration with technical teams.

What is the difference between Network Operations vs Network Support Specialist?

AspectNetwork OperationsNetwork Support Specialist
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentMonitoring, managing network infrastructure, troubleshooting issuesProviding technical support, resolving user network problems
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, service providers, large organizationsHelp desks, IT support teams, managed service providers

Network Operations professionals focus on maintaining, monitoring, and managing entire network systems, ensuring optimal performance. In contrast, Network Support Specialists primarily assist users with network issues and troubleshoot specific problems. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same industry environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Operations jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Network Operations jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Network Operations jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Network Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Operations job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,590 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Network Engineer, Automation

Brookfield Properties

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Brookfield Properties rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 202 rated real estate companies


Job description

Location
GGP Chicago - 350 N Orleans Street, Suite 300
Business
Headquartered in Chicago, IL, GGP is a leading retail real estate company with a portfolio of 95+ high-performing retail assets, encompassing over 95 million square feet of space across the United States. As an owner-operator, we're committed to creating vibrant destinations that bring people and brands together. With a team of 1,200+ employees and a legacy of leadership in retail real estate, we're shaping the future of the industry by delivering exceptional value to our partners and the communities we serve
If you're ready to be a part of our team, we encourage you to apply.
Job Description
Position Summary
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 in a high-volume, ticket-driven environment. This role operates at the intersection of network engineering, cybersecurity vulnerability remediation, and automation - building and maintaining enterprise-grade infrastructure while advancing GGP's network operations maturity through scripting, tooling, and observability solutions.
Success in this role is measured by the reliability and security of the network infrastructure maintained, the quality and reusability of automation solutions developed, and the speed and accuracy of vulnerability remediation delivered across a multi-site, multi-vendor environment.
Key Responsibilities
Network Operations & Automation
  • Implement, maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot enterprise LAN, WAN, wireless, SD-WAN, and cloud network infrastructure.
  • Support Cisco and Arista switching environments including deployment, configuration, optimization, code upgrades, and vulnerability remediation.
  • Support Prisma SD-WAN, Aruba Central, Aruba wireless infrastructure, and Aruba ClearPass including 802.1X, guest access, device profiling, and role-based access policies.
  • Provide operational support in a ticket-based environment using ServiceNow with compliance to company standards and operational procedures.
  • Participate in on-call rotation (1 week per month), after-hours maintenance windows, and occasional travel to retail centers, commercial properties, and remote office locations as needed.
  • Develop and maintain automation solutions using Python, Ansible, and PowerShell to support configuration management, compliance validation, provisioning, operational tasks, and CI/CD-based network deployments.
  • Create reusable automation frameworks and operational runbooks for vulnerability remediation and other projects.

Cybersecurity & Vulnerability Remediation
  • Identify, prioritize, and remediate cybersecurity vulnerabilities through firmware upgrades, secure configuration standards, patch management, NAC, segmentation, and Zero Trust initiatives.
  • Implement secure network configurations and hardening standards aligned with enterprise security policies.
  • Participate in security assessments, penetration test remediation, and risk mitigation activities.
  • Maintain documentation of remediation activities, patch compliance, and security exceptions.

Aruba Wireless & NAC
  • Administer, configure and support Aruba Central cloud-managed environments and Aruba wireless infrastructure including APs and controllers.
  • Manage Aruba ClearPass policies including but not limited to NAC authentication, Role-based access, Guest access, Device profiling, and 802.1X integration.
  • Support secure wired and wireless access initiatives.

Documentation & Collaboration
  • Maintain technical documentation, network diagrams, operational procedures, and remediation records while participating in incident response, root cause analysis, and problem management activities.
  • Collaborate with vendors, property management teams, cybersecurity, architecture, systems, and application teams on operational and project initiatives.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications and Technical Skills
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum 5 years of enterprise network engineering experience, including hand-on work in multi-vendor, multi-site environments.
  • Hands-on experience with Cisco switching and routing (IOS, NX-OS), and Cisco Catalyst Center.
  • Experience with network automation and network operations practices, including scripting with Python, Ansible, and/or PowerShell for configuration management, compliance validation, and CI/CD-based deployments.
  • Experience with cybersecurity vulnerability remediation, patch management, and secure network configuration standards.
  • Strong working knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS/DHCP, VLANs, and network security principles.
  • Experience with enterprise wireless networking and NAC solutions.
  • Proficiency with network diagnostic and monitoring tools including Wireshark, SNMP, Syslog, and NetFlow.
  • Strong technical writing skills, including the ability to produce clear operational runbooks, network diagrams, and remediation documentation.

Preferred Qualifications and Technical Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Industry certifications such as Cisco Systems CCNA, CCNP, CISSP, Arista Networks ACE.
  • Experience with ITIL operational practices, Agile or network operations methodologies.
  • Experience supporting retail, commercial real estate, or property management environments.
  • Familiarity with project management systems including Monday.com.
  • Knowledge of operating and network management systems including, but not limited to, Arista EOS, Arista Cloud Vision, Aruba Central, ClearPass, Prisma SD-WAN, and Cisco SD-WAN (not Meraki).

Travel
  • Up to 5% travel required.

Compensation
  • Salary type: Exempt
  • Pay Frequency: Bi-weekly
  • Annual Base Salary Range: $105,000 - $135,000
  • Annual Bonus: 10%

Benefit Information
  • Competitive compensation
  • Medical, Dental and Vision beginning day 1
  • 401(k) Company matching
  • 401(k) Vests on Day 1
  • Career development programs
  • Charitable donation matching
  • Generous paid time off (i.e., vacation, personal holidays, paid sick time)
  • Paid Volunteer Hours
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Family planning assistance including IVF, surrogacy, and adoption options
  • Wellness and mental health resources
  • Pet insurance offering
  • Childcare Assistance
  • Commuter benefits
  • A culture on our values of Act with Integrity, Build Mutual Trust, Take Initiative and Win Together.

We are proud to create a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are grateful for your interest in this position, however, only candidates selected for pre-screening will be contacted.
#GGP

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