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Network Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities * Provide network analysis and design services to engineer, evaluate, and ... Review configurations, operating, and troubleshooting procedures to include routers, switches ...

Network and System Administrator

Quincy, IL · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

... network resources. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES System Administration ... Installs and configures server operating systems, operating system upgrades, and operating system ...

IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

The Network Administrator supports daily IT operations by managing networks, troubleshooting issues ... Operating systems programming * System security policy procedures * Web strategy and operations

Network and System Administrator

Quincy, IL · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

... network resources. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES System Administration ... Installs and configures server operating systems, operating system upgrades, and operating system ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Plans and implements wide area network configuration and associated hardware and software ... Extensive knowledge of computer architecture, operating systems and computer languages. * Extensive ...

Role: Network Administrator Location: Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Duration: 6+ months Project work will ... GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: • Knowledge of multiple operating systems and related ...

Showing results 41-60

Network Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$17

$26

How much do network operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for network operator in Illinois is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.34 and $18.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a network operator?

Network operators are professionals responsible for managing, monitoring, and maintaining computer networks to ensure their smooth and secure operation. They oversee network infrastructure, handle troubleshooting, and respond to outages or performance issues. Network operators may work with both local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs), ensuring connectivity and reliability for organizations or service providers. Their role is crucial for keeping communication systems and IT services running efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a network operator?

To thrive as a Network Operator, you need solid knowledge of network protocols, troubleshooting, and infrastructure management, often supported by a degree in IT or a related field. Familiarity with network monitoring tools like Wireshark, Cisco equipment, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring network reliability, quick problem resolution, and maintaining secure and efficient operations.

What are some common challenges faced by network operators, and how can they be addressed?

Network Operators frequently encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex connectivity issues, managing network security threats, and ensuring minimal downtime during maintenance. Staying up-to-date with evolving technologies and protocols is essential, as networks often integrate new devices and services. Effective communication with other IT teams and end-users also plays a key role in quickly resolving incidents. Regular training, adopting automated monitoring tools, and following established incident response procedures can help address these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Network Operator vs Network Technician?

AspectNetwork OperatorNetwork Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications like CompTIA Network+ are commonUsually requires an associate degree or technical certification; certifications like Cisco CCNA are common
Work EnvironmentOperates in data centers, network operations centers, or on-site at client locationsWorks in similar environments, often performing maintenance and troubleshooting
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitors network performance, manages network operations, and ensures uptimeInstalls, maintains, and troubleshoots network hardware and software issues

Both roles are essential in maintaining network infrastructure, with Network Operators focusing on overseeing network performance and operations, while Network Technicians handle hands-on hardware and software troubleshooting. They often work together to ensure seamless network functionality.

How much does a network operator make?

A network operator's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in environments requiring technical skills and troubleshooting expertise.

Is networking a high paying job?

Network operators typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may have moderate pay, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications like Cisco or CompTIA can earn higher wages. Overall, networking can be a well-paying career path within the IT industry.
Infographic showing various Network Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,590 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Network Architect

Phase2 Technology

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site

$105.60 - $176/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Network Architect

A well-designed network is critical to move data and enable the Department of Defense (DoD) to achieve their missions, but how can an organization make sure their network will fit their evolving needs? Crafting the right network with the right equipment and software requires a combination of technical skill and careful planning. That's why we need a seasoned Network Engineer like you who knows how to develop the exact network the DoD needs.

As a Network Engineer on our team, you'll use your experience in network design and architecture, system interoperability, OSI model, network transport layers, multi-protocol label switching, gateway protocol, and virtual routing and forwarding to support the nation's defense and respond to evolving adversaries. You'll develop enterprise-wide infrastructure design, troubleshoot and resolve complex network issues, analyze current working infrastructures, and increase security, reliability, and availability for critical network systems. You'll apply your expertise in routing and switching, network design and architecture, system interoperability, IP engineering, network transport layers, multi-protocol label switching, gateway protocol, and virtual routing and forwarding as you guide our team of problem-solvers to help the DoD evolve and deploy new capabilities and technologies. Your knowledge of enterprise-level network protocols, equipment, emerging technology, and configurations will come in handy as you optimize client operations and modernization.

Using your experience in software and hardware firewalls, Cisco hardware, Palo Alto firewalls, Juniper hardware, and optical infrastructure networking, you'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients on critical projects. Using your technical curiosity and knowledge of industry standards, you'll make an impact on national security missions.

You Have
  • 5+ years of experience designing, deploying, and supporting network and security architectures within DoD hybrid environments, including implementing Zero Trust principles
  • 2+ years of experience implementing and configuring network segmentation or micro segmentation solutions, including SoftwareDefined Networking (SDN) technologies, SD-WAN, container networking, or virtualization platforms
  • 2+ years of experience documenting complex network and security architectures, procedures, and troubleshooting workflows, including Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) implementations and detailed documentation of BGP policy behavior, NGFW IDS/IPS configurations, or NAT and SNAT translation flows
  • 2+ years of experience with security, routing, and switching protocols, including BGP, IS-IS, OSPF, MPLS, LDP, RSVP, VPLS, STP, or L3VPNs
  • Ability to effectively engage and collaborate with senior leadership
  • Secret clearance
  • HS diploma or GED
Nice If You Have
  • Experience supporting and operating DoD networks
  • Experience developing enterprise-level architectures
  • Experience deploying, upgrading, and troubleshooting multivendor network and security platforms such as Cisco, Juniper, or Versa
  • Experience applying STIGs and performing system security hardening
  • Experience with commercial and DoD cloud networks
  • Bachelor's degree in CS or Engineering
  • CCNP or JNCP Certification
Clearance

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $77,600.00 to $176,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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