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Network Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$78K - $128K/yr

Experience designing and operating network segmentation strategies (VLANs, micro-segmentation, firewall zones, east-west controls). * Understanding and ability to troubleshoot and/or support ...

Network Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site +1

$78K - $128K/yr

Experience designing and operating network segmentation strategies (VLANs, micro-segmentation, firewall zones, east-west controls). * Understanding and ability to troubleshoot and/or support ...

Perform upgrades of network equipment operating systems and firmware in accordance with program and customer directives. * Install, test, and verify network equipment ensuring US BICES-X networks ...

Network Engineer

Virginia, MN · On-site

$37.96/hr

Train customer design, implementation, and support teams to configure and operate Juniper products. Assist in developing network and equipment operating procedures. Support production environments ...

... Manage operating systems such as Windows Server and Linux Perform system updates, patches, and ... networking (TCP/IP, VLANs, firewalls, DNS, DHCP) Ability to troubleshoot hardware and software ...

Network Engineer II

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

The Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the bank's LAN/WAN ... Routing, Operator Connect, and Calling Plans) and related voice services. * Design, upgrade ...

Participates in the upgrading of operating systems and design of network enhancements. * Provides input for documentation on new or existing networks. * Develops and conducts tests to ensure networks ...

Senior Network Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

Maintains contact and builds relationships with the operating businesses, IT management, IT vendors ... Networking expertise across a Hybrid Cloud Environment (On-Premise, Azure, AWS, OCI)

Network Engineer Senior

Rochester, MN · On-site

$93K - $108K/yr

Participates in the upgrading of operating systems and design of network enhancements. * Provides input for documentation on new or existing networks. * Develops and conducts tests to ensure networks ...

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Network Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$18

$29

How much do network operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for network operator in Minnesota is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.88 and $20.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior network engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in network architecture, and certifications such as CCIE can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large corporations. These roles often involve managing complex infrastructure, security, and large-scale systems, and may include bonuses and stock options that contribute to total compensation.

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.

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.

Will AI replace CCNA jobs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace network operator roles that require hands-on management, troubleshooting, and configuration of network infrastructure. Instead, AI tools are expected to assist network operators by automating routine tasks, allowing them to focus on complex problem-solving and system design. Certification such as CCNA remains valuable for understanding networking fundamentals and operating in evolving technological environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Network Operator, and why are they important?

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 network operators?

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.

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 can earn higher wages, especially in industries with high demand for network infrastructure expertise.

What is a network operations job?

A network operations job involves monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks to ensure reliable data communication. Professionals in this role often use network management tools, follow security protocols, and may hold certifications like CCNA or Network+ to manage network infrastructure effectively.
Sr Engineer - Network Operating Systems

Sr Engineer - Network Operating Systems

Target

Minneapolis, MN • Hybrid

$98K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Target rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6,880 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

The pay range is $98,000.00 - $176,000.00

Pay is based on several factors which vary based on position.These include labor markets and in some instancesmay include education, work experience and certifications. In addition to your pay, Target cares about and invests in you as a team member, so that you can take care of yourself and your family. Target offers eligible team members and their dependents comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more, to help you and your family take care of your whole selves.Other benefits for eligible team members include 401(k), employee discount, short term disability, long term disability, paid sick leave, paid national holidays, and paid vacation.Find competitive benefits from financial and education to well-being and beyond at https://corporate.target.com/careers/benefits.

About us:

Working at Target means helping all families discover the joy of everyday life. We bring that vision tolife through our values and culture.Learn more about Target here.


As a Senior Engineer, you will build and debug software across the Linux stack (kernel and user space), contribute to SONiC builds that produce full Linux OS images, and work with hardware interfaces such as I2C and networking ASICs. Develop and support container-based workflows using Docker, troubleshoot issues across systems, networking, and infrastructure, and collaborate with teammates while supporting and mentoring others as needed.


Use your skills, experience, and talents to contribute to innovative thinking and forward-looking goals. As a Sr. Engineer, you will lead by applying deep technical expertise to evaluate and adopt current and emerging technologies, considering factors such as viability, maintainability, and total cost of ownership. You will drive research and proof-of-concept efforts, lead service design and lifecycle management, and guide architecture and design discussions using system and process insights. You will also lead code reviews, testing, optimization, and implementation activities, ensuring solutions meet architectural and operational best practices. In this role, be comfortable debugging complex hardware and software issues, work effectively both independently and collaboratively, communicate clearly across diverse perspectives, mentor and support teammates, and operate successfully within Agile/Scrum environments.

Core responsibilities of this job are described within this job description. Job duties may change at any time due to business needs.

About you:
4-year degree or equivalent experience
5+ years of software development experience

Programming

  • Strong experience in C /C++ in a Linux environment
  • Working knowledge of Python and scripting (bash or similar)
  • Familiarity with common tools like git, make, and basic build systems
  • Linux operating system services (e.g. systemd).

Containers & Build Environments

  • Experience using Docker and understanding how containers work
  • Familiarity with build tools and package management (apt, pip, etc.)
  • Basic understanding of handling certificates, credentials, and secure access

Networking Fundamentals

  • General understanding of networking concepts:
    • Ethernet basics (Interfaces copper and optical, MAC addressing etc.)
    • Layer 2 / Layer 3 concepts (switching vs routing)
  • Experience with protocols including ARP, ICMP, BGP, LACP, STP, LLDP, VLANs, etc.
  • Awareness of infrastructure components like DNS, firewalls, and TLS

Hardware / Embedded Exposure

  • Experience or familiarity with:
    • I2C devices and communication
    • Network switch architecture
    • Switching ASIC concepts
    • Low-level concepts like memory-mapped I/O or interrupts

This position will operate as a Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement based on Target's needs. A Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement means the team member's core role will need to be performed both onsite at the Target HQ MN location the role is assigned to and virtually, depending upon what your role, team and tasks require for that day. Work duties cannot be performed outside of the country of the primary work location, unless otherwise prescribed by Target. Click here if you are curious to learn more about Minnesota.

Benefits Eligibility

Please paste this url into your preferred browser to learn about benefits eligibility for this role: https://tgt.biz/BenefitsForYou_D

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

In compliance with state and federal laws, Target will make reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to candidate.accommodations@HRHelp.Target.com. Non-accommodation-related requests, such as application follow-ups or technical issues, will not be addressed through this channel.


What Target employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Target logo

About Target

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We're here to help all families discover the joy of everyday life. Target is a general merchandise retailer with stores in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. 75% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Target store. We employ 400,000+ Our tagline is "Expect More. Pay Less." We've been using it since 1994! The Target Corporation also owns Shipt and Roundel. More to love! Target is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, its hometown since the first Target store opened in 1962 under The Dayton Company.

Industry

Retail and scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US