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Network Security Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Network Security Strategy: Develop, implement, and maintain security strategies for perimeter security, network segmentation, network access control (NAC), cloud access security broker (CASB), and ...

Network Security Strategy: Develop, implement, and maintain security strategies for perimeter security, network segmentation, network access control (NAC), cloud access security broker (CASB), and ...

Network/Security Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

... network) • Experience Switching, Routing & Security products. Qualifications Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Senior Network/Security Engineer

Deerfield, IL · Hybrid

$59.50 - $77.75/hr

Senior Network/Security Engineer REPORTS TO: Director, Network/Security Services LOCATION: Chicagoland DATE: November 2025 Meridian IT Inc. is an award-winning MSP focused on Infrastructure and ...

Senior Network/Security Engineer

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$59.50 - $77.75/hr

Senior Network/Security Engineer REPORTS TO: Director, Network/Security Services LOCATION: Chicagoland DATE: November 2025 Meridian IT Inc. is an award-winning MSP focused on Infrastructure and ...

Role Description: We are looking for a highly qualified Senior Network Security Engineer to join our Network & Security Business Unit. The professional will be responsible for the design ...

Network Security Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Network Security Engineer III, Chicago, IL The Network Security Engineer III position is part of a collaborative team that provides technical solutions and support to caregivers and employees across ...

Role : SR. Network Security Engineer LOCATION : Schaumburg IL Duration : Fulltime Must be US citizen or Green Card holder. Plan, design, engineer, develop, implement, and troubleshoot infrastructure ...

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Network Security information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21.6K

$128.8K

$172.2K

How much do network security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for network security in Chicago, IL is $128,817.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,700.00 and $147,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do in network security?

A network security professional protects computer networks from cyber threats by implementing security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. They monitor network traffic, analyze vulnerabilities, and respond to security incidents to ensure data integrity and confidentiality. Certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are often valuable in this field.

Can I make $200 a year in cyber security?

Network security professionals typically earn significantly more than $200 annually, with entry-level positions often starting around $50,000 per year and experienced roles exceeding six figures. Achieving higher salaries generally requires relevant certifications, skills in security tools, and experience in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Network Security roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Network Security often encounter challenges such as staying updated with rapidly evolving cyber threats, managing complex security infrastructures, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. To address these, ongoing professional development and training are essential, as is fostering strong collaboration with IT and other security teams. Utilizing automated security tools and regularly reviewing security policies can also help mitigate risks and streamline daily operations. Being proactive and adaptable is key to success in this dynamic field.

Is 40 too old for cyber security?

Network security professionals can be successful at any age, as experience and skills are highly valued in the field. Many employers prioritize certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ and practical knowledge over age, making it possible to start or transition into cybersecurity at 40 or older.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Network security professionals can potentially earn $500,000 annually, especially at senior levels such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or in executive roles, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications like CISSP or CISM, and leadership responsibilities. High salaries are typically found in large organizations or specialized consulting roles, but such compensation is not common for entry- or mid-level positions.

What is network security?

Network security refers to the strategies, policies, and technologies used to protect computer networks from unauthorized access, misuse, or theft. It involves implementing measures such as firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and secure protocols to safeguard data and ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of network resources. Network security is essential for organizations to prevent cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security threats that can disrupt operations or compromise sensitive information.

What is the difference between Network Security vs Cybersecurity Specialist?

AspectNetwork SecurityCybersecurity Specialist
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentFocus on network infrastructure, firewalls, VPNsBroader security measures, including networks, applications, and data
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, network providers, enterprisesAll sectors, including finance, healthcare, government
Search & Comparison IntentSpecific to network protection rolesBroader security roles encompassing multiple domains

Network Security primarily concentrates on protecting network infrastructure, such as firewalls and VPNs, while Cybersecurity Specialists have a broader role, covering all aspects of digital security, including networks, applications, and data. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and work environment, with Network Security focusing more on network-specific tasks and Cybersecurity Specialists handling comprehensive security strategies across an organization.

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

To thrive as a Network Security professional, you need a solid understanding of network protocols, firewall management, vulnerability assessment, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools such as SIEM solutions, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals anticipate threats and convey risks to stakeholders. These skills are crucial for protecting organizational data, ensuring compliance, and minimizing potential security breaches.
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Security jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Network Security jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Network Security jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Network Security jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Network Security jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Network Security job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Security job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,817 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

$107K - $147K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Sonoma Consulting is one of the fastest growing national IT Consulting and Executive Search company in the United States, which was founded in 2011 by Mark McGee, the President and CEO. Sonoma Consulting has two business divisions - IT Consulting Services & Executive Search to serve its 150 national clients which range from entrepreneurial start-ups to Global Fortune 500.

Job Description

Overview The Network Security Engineer will have practical, hands-on experience with all aspects of network security and its management in an enterprise environment. This role is expected to provide strong leadership and relevant recommendations with regard to the design, implementation and support of the enterprise security environment including patch management process at client. This environment includes approximately 2000 staff members located in more than 50 offices across the globe.

  • The ideal candidate will possess a combination of technical expertise in some or all of the areas listed below combined with experience in managing third-party resources in order to successfully execute tasks:
  • Network Security Hardware & Software Management
  • Patch Management and Vulnerability Remediation
  • Security Information and Event Management

Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas will be strongly preferred:

  • Securing Cloud-based servers & applications
  • Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems
  • Network Event Correlation
  • Linux
  • Microsoft Azure
  • Understanding linkages between networks, applications and systems.
  • Our client currently utilizes a number of third-party organizations to provide Helpdesk and Level 1-3 support. The candidate will be expected to interact with these organizations on an on-going basis to ensure that as-implemented security does not negatively impact the business. The candidate will also be required to provide a high level of technical expertise and leadership on an as-needed basis when complex vulnerability and security-related issues and situations arise.
  • Working as a member of a core IT team based in Chicago, IL and reporting to the Manager of Global Infrastructure, the Network Security Engineer will have primary responsibility for all network security management processes design, implementations, maintenance and support throughout the client environment. Will provide leadership and direction to Network Operations Center (NOC) resources and serve as primary escalation point for all security incidents. Also they will be responsible for understanding Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE), determine whether identified CVEs apply to environment, design and implement patch process to address CVE.


Qualifications

Responsibilities

  • Core Responsibilities Documentation & management of enterprise security
    devices including but not limited to routers, firewalls, switches, and
    WAN accelerators.
  • Maintain currency of all network documentation.
  • Serve as primary Point of Contact (PoC)
    for Manager Network Monitoring Service vendor to assess, prioritize and
    implement recommended remediation to identified incidents.
  • Research of identified CVE for operating system platforms
  • Provide subject matter expertise on everything from host hardening to web application vulnerabilities.
  • Provide leadership in driving internal vulnerability and patch projects across platforms including but not limited to PCs, Servers and Network
  • Managing patch implementation across platforms including but not limited to PCs, Servers and Network.
  • Find and fix vulnerability issues and assist others to architect solutions with security in mind.
  • Assess and implement vendor vulnerability and patch solutions that support the business goals of the organization.
  • Prioritize work efforts based on intelligent assessment of risk.
  • Perform vulnerability assessments of a variety of applications and systems including but not limited to PCs, Servers, Network.
  • Where necessary, build internal tools to fill gaps in vendor provided tools.
  • Ability to create detailed and usable documentation of the patch processes.
  • Ability to read, analyzes, and interprets technical journals.
  • Ability
    to contribute to the development and refinement of client technology
    roadmaps by proactively assessing current technology capabilities
    against current and emerging business needs.
  • Ensure proper protection and use of software, including virus protection

The Person

  • Education B.S. in Computer Science or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience
    Possess a minimum of five (5) years' experience designing, implementing
    and managing complex network security environments.
  • Possess a minimum five (5) years' experience implementing and supporting vulnerability and patch management in enterprise environment.
  • Hands on practical experience working with key network & security hardware and software including Cisco, CheckPoint, Juniper.
  • Experience working with multiple operating systems with expert level knowledge of Linux, Microsoft Windows or OS X.
  • Strong well rounded background in host, network and application vulnerability and patch management.
  • Advanced knowledge of TCP/IP networking and network services such as DNS, SMTP, DHCP, etc.
  • Familiarity with regulatory and compliance requirements, such as SOX, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, etc.
  • Extensive knowledge of internet security issues and the threat landscape.
  • Experience in securing cloud applications, environments and servers.
  • Experience with shell scripting and one or more programming languages is strongly preferred.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.


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About Sonoma Consult

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonoma Consult is a California based C corporation helping companies bring products to the patient by working closely with the engineering teams and the clinicians. Our goal, no matter what stage of product development, is to create and execute a plan of action to move the product through the appropriate clinical and regulatory steps. Sonoma Consult works cohesively with the engineers and physicians to translate technologies to the clinic. Our goal is to help you get the very best product to the clinic and to the market. This includes planning, execution and ensuring critical data is delivered in the right format to ensure the feedback loop to the design team ultimately delivers the most advanced technology to the patient.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Sonoma, CA, US