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Networking Software Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced ...

Senior Network Software Engineer

Shiloh, IL · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

This position is ideal for a networking professional with software development experience looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced and technically ...

Senior Network Software Engineer

Shiloh, IL

$96K - $132K/yr

This position is ideal for a networking professional with software development experience looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced and technically ...

This position combines in-depth knowledge about networking protocols and access control algorithms with extensive software engineering practice and the ability to implement reliable software modules ...

This position combines in-depth knowledge about networking protocols and access control algorithms with extensive software engineering practice and the ability to implement reliable software modules ...

Network Software Engineer Lead

Shiloh, IL

$94K - $130K/yr

This position is ideal for a networking professional with software development experience looking to expand their level of responsibility and showcase their skills in a fast paced and technically ...

Network Software Engineer Lead

Shiloh, IL · On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

This position is ideal for a networking professional with software development experience looking to expand their level of responsibility and showcase their skills in a fast paced and technically ...

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Networking Software information

What is networking software?

Networking software refers to programs and applications that manage, monitor, and facilitate communication between computers and devices over a network. It includes operating systems, protocols, utilities, and tools that support tasks such as sharing files, managing network traffic, and ensuring security. Networking software is essential for both small local networks and large-scale enterprise environments, enabling reliable data exchange and connectivity. Examples include network operating systems, firewalls, routers' firmware, and network management tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a networking software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Networking Software Engineer, you need a strong grasp of computer networking concepts, programming languages (like C/C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with network protocols, packet analyzers (such as Wireshark), and certifications like Cisco's CCNA or CompTIA Network+ are highly valuable. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and troubleshooting network issues. These skills and qualifications ensure the reliable development and maintenance of robust networking solutions in dynamic technical environments.

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

Professionals in Networking Software often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex network issues, keeping up with rapidly evolving protocols, and ensuring software compatibility across diverse hardware environments. Addressing these requires strong analytical skills, continuous learning through certifications or industry updates, and effective collaboration with hardware engineers and IT teams. Many teams operate in agile environments, so clear communication and adaptability are also key to overcoming obstacles and delivering robust networking solutions.

What is the difference between Networking Software vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetworking SoftwareNetwork Administrator
Primary RoleDesigning, developing, and managing network software and toolsManaging and maintaining physical and virtual network infrastructure
Required SkillsProgramming, software development, network protocolsNetwork configuration, troubleshooting, hardware management
CertificationsNetwork+, CCNA (software focus), Cisco certificationsNetwork+, CCNA, CompTIA certifications
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, IT departmentsData centers, corporate IT departments, onsite and remote

Networking Software professionals focus on creating and maintaining network-related software tools, while Network Administrators manage and troubleshoot the actual network infrastructure. Both roles require networking certifications and often work within the same industry environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Is networking a software job?

Networking is a field that involves designing, implementing, and managing computer networks, often requiring knowledge of networking protocols, hardware, and software tools. Jobs in networking software focus on developing and maintaining network management applications, security tools, and automation scripts, often requiring skills in programming, scripting, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+.

Is networking software a high paying job?

Networking software roles, such as network engineers or software developers specializing in networking, tend to offer above-average salaries compared to many other IT positions. Factors like experience, certifications (e.g., Cisco, CompTIA), and technical skills influence earning potential, with senior roles often earning six-figure salaries. Entry-level positions typically have lower pay but can increase significantly with expertise and specialization.

What careers are there in networking software?

Careers in networking software include roles such as network software engineer, network administrator, network security analyst, and systems architect. These positions typically require knowledge of networking protocols, programming skills, and familiarity with tools like Cisco, Wireshark, or network simulation software. Certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+ can enhance job prospects.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Networking Software jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Networking Software job openings:

Infographic showing various Networking Software job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Network Software Engineer

Leidos

Shiloh, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 500 rated business services


Job description

Leidos' Digital Sector/Global Solutions Management-Operations II (GSMO-II) contract has an opening for a Network Software Engineer located in the Scott AFB, IL area. The Network Software Engineer will work as part of a team to support the development and release of new software tools using the Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) platform, Python, and other software languages to sustain and manage a Carrier-class Wide Area Network for the Defense Information Systems Agency under the Department of War. Additionally, the position will offer the candidate an opportunity to engage in network engineering using knowledge of routing and system fundamentals in an ISP level network environment. This position is ideal for a networking professional with a few years of experience in software tool creation looking to develop and expand their abilities and showcase their skills in a fast paced and technically challenging role.

Primary Responsibilities-

  • Design, develop, document, test and release software written in Python, XML, and other languages for use with the Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) platform.
  • Integrate software with network devices, including Cisco ASR9K and Juniper MX series routers.
  • Perform engineering tasks related to the design, implementation, and integration of network changes and sustainment of customer systems in a Wide Area Network environment.
  • Conduct planning and performance of analytical research, design development, and other tasks to align with customer specifications.
  • Ensure efficient delivery of contract capabilities using industry standards and repeatable processes.
  • Mitigate risks, control costs and schedule variance, and effectively manage large scale, integrated projects.
  • Perform a variety of analytical tasks which include hardware and software design and implementation.
  • Proactively identify, report, monitor, and mitigate technical risks.
  • Frequently communicate and collaborate with other team members to ensure successful completion of project objectives.

Basic Qualifications-

  • Currently possess an active DoD Secret clearance or higher
  • Currently possess DoD 8750 certification at IAT level II, Security+ CE or equivalent to meet requirement.
  • Python software development experience that includes REST api development, as well as the parsing, generation and validation of JSON.
  • Experience with distributed version control software such as Git and Bitbucket.
  • Experience developing software on a Linux platform.
  • Experience troubleshooting and configuring IP networks using at least one of the following routing methods: BGP, ISIS, OSPF, and/or Static routing.
  • Experience with either service provider or enterprise IP networks using an interface on Cisco (ESR and ASR) and/or Juniper routers.
  • Strong communication skills that enable proactive and effective collaboration with a team.
  • Knowledge of and ability to apply principles, theories, and concepts of Software Engineering.

Preferred Qualifications-

  • Proficient in Juniper and Cisco configuration, troubleshooting, and design.
  • Experience with Cisco IOS XR, JUNOS, and Cisco IOS codes.
  • Network configuration experience, specifically with Juniper or Cisco routers, to include protocols such as BGP, MPLS, VPLS, Pseudowires and QoS.
  • Certifications with major network system vendors such as Cisco are a strong plus
  • Experience developing XML and/or object-oriented programming.
  • Experience developing software using SDN modeling languages and protocols such as YANG, NETCONF and RESTCONF.
  • Full software lifecycle experience (design, development, test, deployment), including deployment to a production environment.
  • Experience developing software including the ability to quickly learn new technologies.
  • Experience creating software design artifacts, including the creation of functional, technical, and architectural design documentation as well as test cases and installation, deployment and configuration documentation.
  • Software Defined Networking experience, particularly experience with Cisco NSO.
  • Possessing project, technical, interpersonal, presentation and problem management skills.

Required Education and Experience-

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline, plus 2-4 years of prior relevant experience or a Master's degree with less than 2 years of prior relevant experience.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:July 23, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $69,550.00 - $125,725.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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