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Networking Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

LRS Consulting Services is seeking an Associate Network Engineer for a contract to hire opportunity ... LAN switching, WAN connectivity, wireless networking, client VPN access, and network performance ...

... Associate Cisco Certified Network Professionals Network design experience - LAN, WAN and Wireless Advanced understanding and experience with Enterprise Network Infrastructure and Topology o WAN, LAN ...

... Certified Network Associate => Cisco Certified Network Professionals => Network design experience - LAN, WAN and Wireless => Advanced understanding and experience with Enterprise Network ...

Enterprise Administrator Expert. • Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA). • Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA). • Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA). • VMware ...

This position requires strong hands-on Cisco networking experience, familiarity with change request ... CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate (required). * CCNP - Cisco Certified Network Professional ...

Enterprise Administrator Expert. • Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA). • Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA). • Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA). • VMware ...

Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA). VMware Certified Associate (VCA). Summary Pay Range The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $38.80 - $45.59. The pay range listed ...

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Networking Associate information

What is a networking associate?

Networking Associates are entry- to mid-level professionals responsible for supporting, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks within an organization. They assist in configuring network hardware, monitoring network performance, and providing technical support to end users. Networking Associates often work with routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking devices to ensure smooth and secure communication across the organization's systems. Their role is vital in maintaining uptime and resolving connectivity issues promptly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a networking associate?

To thrive as a Networking Associate, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, such as TCP/IP, routing, and switching, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in IT or related fields. Familiarity with network hardware, Cisco or Juniper devices, and certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help you troubleshoot issues and support users efficiently. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining secure, reliable network operations and enabling smooth business connectivity.

How does a networking associate typically collaborate with other IT professionals within an organization?

Networking Associates work closely with system administrators, security teams, and technical support staff to ensure the smooth operation of an organization's network infrastructure. They often participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss network needs, assist with troubleshooting connectivity issues, and coordinate upgrades or maintenance tasks. This role requires effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset, as Networking Associates frequently provide input on network designs and help implement best practices across teams.

What is the difference between Networking Associate vs Network Technician?

AspectNetworking AssociateNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (preferred)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (preferred)
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, client sites, support rolesOn-site troubleshooting, hardware setup, maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, telecom companies, service providersIT support firms, enterprise networks, telecom
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Networking Associate and a Network Technician lies in their focus. Networking Associates often handle support, planning, and coordination tasks, while Network Technicians focus more on hardware installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but their day-to-day responsibilities differ slightly based on their specific job functions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Networking jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Networking jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Networking Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Networking Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Networking Associate job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Associate Network Engineer

LRS

Urbana, IL

$30 - $45/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description LRS has prospered for over 30 years because our corporate philosophy embraces honest, ethical and hard-working people. If that describes your approach to IT consulting, we need to talk. LRS Consulting Services is seeking an Associate Network Engineer for a contract to hire opportunity with our client in Central, IL.

LRS Consulting Services has been delivering the highest quality consultants to our clients since 1979. We've built a solid reputation for dealing with our clients and our consultants with honesty, integrity, and respect. We work hard every day to maintain that reputation, and we're very interested in candidates who can help us.

If you're that candidate, this opportunity is made for you. POSITION SUMMARY Under general direction, the Network Engineer Associate is responsible for triaging trouble tickets and work orders, troubleshooting and resolving network access and performance problems, making basic configuration changes to routers, switches, and wireless access points, performing routine network closet inspections and maintenance, and assisting the Network Engineers with projects and infrastructure upgrade deployments. SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS Knowledge of methods and techniques used to configure and troubleshoot Cisco, HP/Aruba, and other brands of network equipment.

Ability to prioritize tickets/work requests and gather all necessary information needed to troubleshoot issues. Ability to respond to all inquiries in a timely manor. Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.

Ability to read and understand maintenance manuals and to work from sketches, drawings, and diagrams. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and vendors. Ability to carry-out maintenance plans and repair schedules.

Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational skills, and customer service skills. Ability to lift, carry, and install network equipment and UPS equipment into racks and cabinets. Assist Network Engineers with tasks as needed.

ESSENTIAL STANDARD JOB FUNCTIONS Act as first responder to network trouble tickets including: LAN switching, WAN connectivity, wireless networking, client VPN access, and network performance issues Perform routine troubleshooting, installation and maintenance on switches, routers, wireless equipment, network cabling, and UPS's Respond to network monitoring alerts to proactively solve problems Assist with documentation of network designs and configurations Enter all information and details of work performed into trouble ticket system The base range for this contract position is $30.00 - $45.00 per hour, depending on experience. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires of this position across all US locations

Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. LRS is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for employment will receive consideration without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, gender identity, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship, status or protected veteran status.

In some cases, LRS Consulting uses generative artificial intelligence ("AI") in support of our hiring processes. LRS takes steps to ensure the use of AI does not result in discrimination based on protected class(es). AI may be used in the hiring process solely in support of the assessment of candidate qualifications.

All decisions in the hiring process are made by LRS employees. If AI will be used in the hiring process for the position for which you are applying, you will be notified and will have the opportunity to opt out. If you have any questions, please contact us by clicking here.