1

Network Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research and recommend advanced technologies such as software defined networking and infrastructure as code. * Provides technical expertise in the management of a public and/or private network such ...

Research and recommend advanced technologies such as software defined networking and infrastructure as code. * Provides technical expertise in the management of a public and/or private network such ...

Research and recommend advanced technologies such as software defined networking and infrastructure as code. * Provides technical expertise in the management of a public and/or private network such ...

Network Engineer III

Springfield, VA · On-site

$107K - $117K/yr

Research and implement enterprise-wide solutions and enhancements against mission objectives ... Network analysis tooling - Network Automation/Node Manager, Juniper Secure Analytics, Infoblox, or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Network Research information

See salary details

$37.5K

$80.1K

$115.5K

How much do network research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for network research in the United States is $80,093.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is network research?

A Network Research job involves studying, analyzing, and improving computer networks to enhance performance, security, and efficiency. Professionals in this field conduct experiments, develop new networking protocols, and evaluate emerging technologies. They often work with academic institutions, research labs, or tech companies to innovate in areas like cybersecurity, data transmission, and wireless communication. The role requires strong analytical skills, programming knowledge, and familiarity with networking concepts.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in network research?

Network Research professionals are responsible for investigating and developing new networking technologies, protocols, and security solutions through experiments, simulations, and data analysis. Their daily tasks might include designing test networks, analyzing network performance, publishing technical reports, and collaborating with software engineers or network architects. Many roles involve both independent research and cross-functional teamwork, as findings often drive improvements in products or infrastructure. Staying current with industry trends is also a key part of the job, ensuring solutions remain innovative and effective.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in network research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Network Research, you need a solid understanding of computer networking principles, data analysis, and research methodologies, often supported by a relevant degree such as computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with network analyzers, simulation tools, programming languages (like Python or C++), and certifications such as CCNA or CompTIA Network+ is valuable. Analytical thinking, curiosity, effective communication, and collaboration skills help researchers both interpret complex data and present findings clearly. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation and solving real-world networking challenges in dynamic, team-oriented environments.

How do I become a network researcher?

To become a network researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles. Skills in network protocols, data analysis, programming, and familiarity with network analysis tools are essential, along with experience in research methodologies and problem-solving. Certifications like Cisco's CCNA or CompTIA Network+ can also enhance qualifications.

Is networking a high paying job?

Network research jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for roles requiring specialized skills in network analysis, security, and infrastructure. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, and location, but generally, network research positions are considered well-paying within the IT industry.
More about Network Research jobs
Infographic showing various Network Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,093 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Senior Research Scientist - Cyber Network Security

Peraton

College Park, MD • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Additional Helpful Skills
  • Experience with embedded systems development, Linux kernel or device driver development, or the desire and drive to acquire skills in this area.
  • Familiarity with machine learning, neural networks or advanced AI techniques, or the motivation to acquire and apply these skills, is a plus.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Research and develop network-based prototypes including the creation of software, scripts and documentation to demonstrate capabilities in new network technology areas (e.g., high speed networking, wireless networks).
  • Research and develop state-of-the-art large-scale prototypes involving virtualized environments, including but not limited to cloud infrastructure, containers, and network function virtualization (NFV).
  • Provide technical leadership working with government PMs to help shape and guide their research program, explain technical details to customer stakeholders, and work alongside other contractors to create prototypes.
  • Work in a fast-paced dynamic environment acquiring expertise as needed and demonstrating capabilities in software development, networking, data collection/monitoring, reverse engineering, etc.

Requires BS w/ 12 YOE, MS w/ 10 YOE, or Ph.D. w/ 7 YOE to satisfy government contractor requirements. Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field is preferred.

Candidates should have proficiency in skills in the following list, which outline the breadth of work available (expertise in all areas is not required):

  • Software development skills in one or more languages (Python, Go, Java), DevOps experience for team development, CICD and version management.
  • Experience with network and system automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Helm, Puppet).
  • Virtualization and container technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, Vagrant, etc.) experience.
  • Ability to quickly acquire knowledge in new technologies, redirect research, quickly prototype solutions, suggest new lines of research and help shape the customer’s research programs.
  • Experience and understanding of network protocols, automation and devices (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls).
  • Experience with reverse engineering tools, such as Ghidra, IDA Pro, for system and malware analysis when needed.
  • Ability to clearly document and describe research to the government customer and their stakeholders so that you can demonstrate expertise and expand roles with the customer.
  • Experience working with members of the IC and related DOD customers.
  • Desire to work at customer research sites (primarily located in College Park, Md.) collaborating with government PMs and contractors to design working research prototypes.
  • Current/Active TS/SCI w/ Poly required for this role

#MDPM

Peraton Labs is seeking a highly motivated individual to support and enhance development of classified and unclassified network research prototypes for a government research customer. Candidates will work in a dynamically changing environment and expected to be able to acquire and adapt new technologies to create state-of-the-art prototypes. We are seeking an individual with a combination of skills and flexibility to help make a difference in mission-oriented research prototypes. Not all of the skills listed below are required, but the candidate should be motivated, willing, and excited about learning and adopting new technologies. Self-starters who have the drive to acquire expertise on their own and who thrive in a dynamic environment will excel in this position. Network expertise is part of the heritage of Peraton Labs, with its lineage stretching back to Bell Labs, Bellcore and Telcordia. We are seeking motivated individuals to join the team who want to move forward with the next generation of network research.

This role requires on-site work out of College Park, MD or Laurel, MD

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Peraton logo

About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017