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Network Security Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Information Security Engineer

Munster, IN · On-site

$43.26 - $66.17/hr

The Information Security Engineer has a thorough understanding of network defense technologies, TCP/IP networking, Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, network security monitoring tools, secure engineering ...

Security Engineer About Us: On a mission to deliver affordable, delightful healthcare for all ... Support cloud security initiatives including identity management, logging, monitoring, network ...

Network Engineer Descriptions: Will work with Infrastructure leadership, other IS teams and ... Experience working with SDN solutions such as Cisco ACI, VMware VNX Knowledge of network security ...

Showing results 21-40

Network Security Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21.6K

$128.7K

$172K

How much do network security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for network security engineer in Chicago, IL is $128,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $147,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a network security engineer do?

As a network security engineer, your job duties include configuring routers, switches, firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and other network monitoring tools against intrusions. You need technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills to carry out your network security tasks. Your job is to ensure that your company’s internal networks are protected from potential online threats, like hackers and malware that can steal or corrupt sensitive data from websites, computer programs, databases, and servers. You need to remain current with new developments in the field to master fast-evolving network security technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by network security engineers in maintaining secure and efficient networks?

Network Security Engineers often encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats, ensuring minimal downtime during security upgrades, and balancing strong security measures with network performance. Additionally, they must work closely with IT teams and end-users to implement security policies without disrupting daily operations. Keeping up with compliance standards and effectively communicating risks and solutions to non-technical stakeholders are also important aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Network Security Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking protocols, firewall management, vulnerability assessment, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools like IDS/IPS, SIEM systems, and certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for safeguarding organizational data, identifying security threats, and ensuring robust network protection.

Are network security engineers in demand?

Network security engineers are in high demand due to increasing cybersecurity threats and the need for organizations to protect their digital assets. The role requires skills in firewalls, intrusion detection, and security protocols, and often benefits from certifications like CISSP or CEH. Job growth in this field is expected to remain strong as cybersecurity becomes a top priority for businesses across industries.

What is a network security engineer?

Network Security Engineers are IT professionals responsible for protecting an organization's computer networks from security threats and unauthorized access. They design, implement, and maintain security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols. Their role involves monitoring network traffic, responding to security incidents, and ensuring compliance with security policies and regulations. Network Security Engineers also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and work to keep systems up to date against evolving cyber threats.

What is the difference between Network Security Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectNetwork Security EngineerSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCCNA, CISSP, CompTIA Security+CISSP, GIAC Security Essentials, CompTIA Security+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining security infrastructureMonitoring, analyzing, and responding to security incidents
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, cybersecurity firms, large enterprisesCorporate security teams, government agencies, financial institutions

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Network Security Engineers primarily design and implement security systems, whereas Security Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. They often work together to ensure comprehensive protection of organizational networks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Network Security Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Network Security Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Network Security Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Security Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $128,715 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Urgent On-Site Opening for Jr. Network Security Engineer (L1)/Network Engineer - Chicago, IL.

SmartIPlace

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Note:

  • There will be 2 rounds of interview, 1st round will be on video and 2nd would be Coffe (local) meet and greet.
  • First Priority on Locals.

Position Overview :

*** Strongly prefer someone with Consulting or PS experience "

Overview:

  • The JR. Cisco Network Security Engineer is some experienced technical networking & security experience for end-to-end solutions to complex business networking and communications problems for new and existing clients.
  • The jr. Network Security Engineer is responsible for supporting the current engagement (planning to close) to which they have been assigned.
  • They will participate in evaluation, testing, selection, and deployment of network elements for a network buildout that ensures that solutions adhere to defined security standards and best practices and/or assist in the development of these standards and best practices. 
  • The Jr. Network Engineer will be staging network & security hardware.  

Requirements:

Must have 2-4 yr min of hands-on experience providing assistance to managed service customers within the agreed upon SLAs in our managed service contracts; inclusive of Installing, configuring, and troubleshooting security/network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers on Cisco routers, switches, wireless devices and firewalls inclusive of:

  • Cisco ACI;
  • Cisco ISE. (802.1x,MAB,Guest,BYOD
  • PaloAlto
  • Cisco Firepower Next-Generation firewalls
  • Cisco
  • Cisco TrustSec
  • Cisco SD-Access
  • DNA Center
  • Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC)
  • Cisco AnyConnect Security Mobility Client

Must have 2-4 years assisting perimeter and data security solutions including firewalls, intrusion detection / prevention, VPN’s, remote access and monitoring tools and be well-versed around Cisco and/or Palo Alto’s security portfolio. 

Expertise around the specific product list is preferred: Cisco ASA, Cisco FirePower (SourceFire), Cisco ISE, Palo Alto specially:

  • Experience designing and implementing policy-based (access control) for next-generation firewalls
  • Experience designing and implementing VPN (site-to-site, remote access, etc.)
  • Experience designing and implementing intrusion detection and intrusion prevention (SNORT rules)

3. Solid Experience with routing/switching protocols (EIGRP, BGP, HSRP, STP, LACP etc.), IP addressing and protocols (TCP/UDP)

4. Solid Experience with Cisco Nexus 5K, Fabric Extenders (2K) and NX-OS

5. Solid Experience with Site-to-Site VPNs, Remote Access VPNs and DMVPN

6. Solid Experience with Cisco ASA firewalls (site-to-site VPN and remote access VPN)

7. Solid Experience with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers (WLC), FlexConnect, high-availability and antennas.

8. Experience with WAN deployments including design, implementation and troubleshooting of various types of circuits (T-1, DS-3, MPLS, ELAN, DIA etc.).

9. Strong understanding TCP/IP, SNMPv2c/v3, NTP, AAA, TACACS, SSHv2, RADIUS, DNS, DHCP, LDAP and other standard protocols.

10. Professional networking certifications a plus (i.e. CCNA, CCNP, ACCP, or equivalent)

  • Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
  • Communication Skills
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Time Management and Prioritization
  • Attention to Detail Logistics and Accuracy
  • Customer Service and Support
  • Troubleshooting and Debugging
     

Smart-iPlace logo

About Smart-iPlace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SMART-iPLACE provides innovative staffing and consulting solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives. We can understand and support all areas of your IT systems from back-end infrastructure to front-end personal productivity. Our goal is create innovative IT solutions that enable your business to be more agile and competitive.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

2021

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