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Network Research Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Lead Network Architect

Durham, NC · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Role Summary The Network Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for designing ... Conduct research, evaluation, and integration of emerging network technologies to enhance security ...

212406 Network Security Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

Research attempted or successful efforts to compromise systems security and design countermeasures. * Maintain hardware, software and network firewalls and encryption protocols. * Manage security ...

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and ... We are also very proud of our Women's Initiative Network (WIN), whose purpose is to motivate ...

Working alongside a diverse network of R&D, engineering, testing, and product development professionals, you will play a key role in accelerating innovation and enabling smarter, more efficient ...

Working alongside a diverse network of R&D, engineering, testing, and product development professionals, you will play a key role in accelerating innovation and enabling smarter, more efficient ...

Working alongside a diverse network of R&D, engineering, testing, and product development professionals, you will play a key role in accelerating innovation and enabling smarter, more efficient ...

New

Software Cloud Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$53 - $69/hr

You will be part of our employee-owned international research and engineering company. ARA is ... We are also very proud of our Women's Initiative Network (WIN), whose purpose is to motivate ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and ... We are also very proud of our Women's Initiative Network (WIN), whose purpose is to motivate ...

Strong cybersecurity foundation, including threat modeling, adversary simulation, exploit or vulnerability research, malware analysis, network defense, threat hunting, detection engineering, digital ...

Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Engineering Research Administration About the Department The ... Collectively, this distributed network manages an exceptional volume of activity across all ...

Strong cybersecurity foundation, including threat modeling, adversary simulation, exploit or vulnerability research, malware analysis, network defense, threat hunting, detection engineering, digital ...

New

Strong cybersecurity foundation, including threat modeling, adversary simulation, exploit or vulnerability research, malware analysis, network defense, threat hunting, detection engineering, digital ...

Strong cybersecurity foundation, including threat modeling, adversary simulation, exploit or vulnerability research, malware analysis, network defense, threat hunting, detection engineering, digital ...

Engineering & Science Job Schedule: Full time Remote: No Research Scientist - Power Systems The ... Network in the company and actively distribute your knowledge and expertise. * Collaborate with ...

Showing results 41-60

Network Research Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$30.1K

$106K

$153.6K

How much do network research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for network research engineer in Raleigh, NC is $105,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a network research engineer?

A Network Research Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and tests new network technologies and protocols. They work on improving network performance, security, scalability, and reliability, often collaborating with academic, industry, or government research teams. Their responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings to advance the field of networking. They typically have a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering and stay updated on the latest advancements in networking technologies.

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

To thrive as a Network Research Engineer, you need a strong background in computer networking, network protocols, and advanced problem-solving skills, usually supported by a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with network simulation tools (such as NS-3 or GNS3), programming languages (like Python or C++), and relevant certifications (such as CCNA or CCNP) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help set professionals apart in collaborative research environments. These skills are vital for innovating and developing cutting-edge network solutions that address complex technical challenges.

What are some typical challenges faced by network research engineers when working on experimental networking projects?

Network Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating novel protocols with existing network infrastructure, balancing innovation with stability, and validating experimental solutions in real-world environments. Collaborating with cross-functional teams—including software developers, hardware engineers, and academic researchers—can also present coordination hurdles, especially when timelines and goals differ. Overcoming these challenges requires strong troubleshooting skills, adaptability, and effective communication to ensure research outcomes are both practical and scalable.

What is the difference between Network Research Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectNetwork Research EngineerNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field; certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNPBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic settings, or corporate innovation teamsNetwork operation centers, IT departments, or enterprise network teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, universities, and R&D divisions of telecom firmsTelecom providers, large corporations, IT service providers, and enterprise networks

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, a Network Research Engineer focuses on developing new networking technologies and conducting research, often in labs or academic settings. In contrast, a Network Engineer implements, maintains, and troubleshoots existing network infrastructure within organizations. The roles are complementary but differ mainly in their focus on innovation versus operational support.

Infographic showing various Network Research Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,995 per year, or $51 per hour.

Lead Network Architect

Durham, NC • On-site

GDH
IT Services • 201 - 500 employees

$60 - $65/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Role Summary
The Network Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing complex network projects that meet stringent security and compliance standards. This role combines strategic planning with technical execution and requires a deep understanding of federal cybersecurity policies, frameworks, and protocols. The position involves developing scalable, secure, and future-ready network infrastructures aligned with industry best practices and government regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and execution of comprehensive network strategies and technical frameworks tailored to organizational needs.
  • Collaborate closely with stakeholders to assess requirements, analyze existing network systems, and design detailed network blueprints supporting current and future initiatives.
  • Originates and independently develops network project plans, incorporating innovative approaches and technological advancements.
  • Provide technical leadership and guidance for deploying secure network architectures aligned with cybersecurity policies and federal security standards, including FISMA, NIST 800-53, TIC 3.0, and FedRAMP.
  • Ensure network solutions comply with federal mandates, Zero Trust Architecture principles, and IPv6 adoption initiatives.
  • Support and coordinate security audits, architecture reviews, and Authority to Operate (ATO) activities, ensuring adherence to all applicable security requirements.
  • Oversee security aspects of network deployments, maintaining security oversight and control.
  • Conduct research, evaluation, and integration of emerging network technologies to enhance security, performance, and scalability.
  • Evaluate and recommend third-party vendors and solutions, overseeing integration to ensure compatibility and value.
  • Act as a thought leader by promoting innovative network strategies and guiding the organization in adopting new technologies.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; equivalent experience accepted.
  • Proven experience in designing and implementing complex network infrastructures, with a focus on security and compliance.
  • Strong knowledge of federal cybersecurity standards, including FISMA, NIST 800-53, TIC 3.0, Zero Trust Architecture, and FedRAMP.
  • Experience with IPv6 network deployment and implementation.
  • Ability to develop detailed network blueprints and frameworks from requirements analysis.
  • Demonstrated success in leading network security projects, including architecture reviews and security audits.
  • Excellent research, evaluation, and vendor management skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Effective communication skills for collaboration with technical teams and stakeholders.
  • Ability to travel as needed.
  • In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship, now or in the future.

Publishing Pay Range: $60.00 - $65.00 USD Hourly

This position is based in office and requires employee to work on-site.