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New Grad Network Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill ... The aircraft is the Navy's new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a ...

## Software Engineer, New Grad### San Mateo, CAIXL Learning, developer of personalized learning products used by millions of people globally, is seeking New Grad Software Engineers who have a passion ...

New

Network Engineer The Opportunity: A well-designed network is critical to move data and enable ... new capabilities and technologies. Your knowledge of network protocols, equipment, emerging ...

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill ... The aircraft is the Navy's new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a ...

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill ... The aircraft is the Navy's new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a ...

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill ... The aircraft is the Navy's new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill ... The aircraft is the Navy's new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

... network engineering and firewall engineering. 3+ years of experience building, provisioning ... Working with customers to establish extranet connections through new and existing firewalls in ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

TARGET SALARY $125,000.00 As the Network Engineer, your tasks will include ... Plan for new initiatives and expand the existing network infrastructure. Understand the diversity ...

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$93K - $100K/yr

Perform network integration, testing, validation, and troubleshooting activities to support new and ... Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams, customers, and stakeholders to resolve ...

Showing results 21-40

New Grad Network Engineer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$107.6K

$155.9K

How much do new grad network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for new grad network engineer in California is $107,612.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $131,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a new grad network engineer do?

A New Grad Network Engineer is an entry-level professional responsible for helping design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks for organizations. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced engineers to ensure network reliability, security, and performance. Their tasks may include configuring routers and switches, monitoring network activity, assisting with network upgrades, and resolving connectivity issues. New Grad Network Engineers often work with IT teams to support daily network operations and may also help document network configurations and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a New Grad Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, protocols (such as TCP/IP), and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with network hardware, configuration tools, and certifications like Cisco's CCNA are highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring reliable network performance, troubleshooting issues efficiently, and collaborating within IT teams.

What are some common challenges new grad network engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to real-world network environments?

New grad network engineers often find the transition to professional settings challenging due to the complexity and scale of enterprise networks compared to academic lab environments. Real-world networks involve working with legacy systems, adhering to strict security protocols, and troubleshooting issues that may not have clear documentation. Additionally, new grads must quickly adapt to working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, such as security analysts and systems administrators, while managing multiple priorities and responding to unexpected network incidents. However, these challenges offer valuable learning opportunities and pave the way for rapid skill development.

What is the difference between New Grad Network Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectNew Grad Network EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; certifications like Cisco CCNAHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications like CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot network systems; often in office or data center settingsInstall, maintain, and repair network hardware; on-site or fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageIT firms, telecom companies, large corporationsTelecom providers, IT support companies, small businesses

While both roles involve networking skills, a New Grad Network Engineer focuses on designing and planning networks, often requiring a degree and certifications. In contrast, a Network Technician primarily handles installation and maintenance tasks, typically with less formal education. Understanding these differences helps new professionals choose the right career path in the networking industry.

Are network engineers in demand right now?

Network engineers are in high demand due to increasing reliance on network infrastructure, cybersecurity needs, and cloud technologies. Employers seek professionals skilled in network design, troubleshooting, and certifications like Cisco or CompTIA, with job growth expected to remain strong in the coming years.

How to get into a New Grad Network Engineer role with no experience?

To enter a New Grad Network Engineer role with no experience, focus on obtaining relevant certifications such as Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+, gain hands-on experience through internships, labs, or personal projects, and develop foundational skills in networking protocols, hardware, and troubleshooting. Demonstrating a strong understanding of networking concepts and practical skills can help offset limited work experience when applying for entry-level positions.

What are popular job titles related to New Grad Network Engineer jobs in California?

For New Grad Network Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Grad Network Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for New Grad Network Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for New Grad Network Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most New Grad Network Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various New Grad Network Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,612 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

$91K - $130K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Frontier Technology Inc. is seeking a self-directed and motivated individual to join our team as a network engineer in support of an important and highly visible DoD program. Primary work location is at Naval Information Warfare Center, Pacific in San Diego, CA with additional ability to perform some aspects of the position remotely. This position requires a DoD Secret clearance. In this role, you will provide network engineering support to NIWC Pacific Code 55111 to fulfill PMA-268 Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) requirements, focused on developing features and capabilities for the tactical wideband IP networking solution for communication between the air vehicle and the ground station.  As a Network Engineer on our team, you will build solutions to perform routing, switching, firewall filtering, and/or in-line network encryption for on-aircraft in-flight and ground-based networking and data transport equipment. This includes developing configurations for Cisco-based routers and switches, TACLANE Type-1 encryptors, and Linux-based firewalls, participating in design reviews and peer reviews, and verifying designs in both informal and formal qualification test events.

The aircraft is the Navy’s new unmanned drone, the MQ-25A Stingray, still in development, with a primary mission of aerial refueling and a secondary capability to provide Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) all while being launched and recovered from an aircraft carrier. The team and system you will be joining is called the Advanced Networking Tactical System (ANTS) and Ashore Routing Communications System (ARCS).


  • Develop and implement router, switch, iptables, and/or in-line network encryptor configurations for network transport equipment in accordance with sponsor interface control documents and network architecture standards.
  • Diagnose, troubleshoot and resolve network problems and anomalies.
  • Write formal documentation for all network functions.
  • Evaluate and test emerging network technologies to ensure compatibility with existing designs.
  • Participate in design reviews and peer reviews and contribute technical feedback to peers throughout each development Sprint.
  • Develop test cases for all network functions and write test plans and reports to demonstrate functionality of design.
  • Support ANTS/ARCS user requests for assistance as assigned.
  • Participate in technical exchanges and develop solutions to integrate with aircraft and ground control station vendor systems.
  • Report status and recommendations to the ANTS/ARCS Network Lead.

Required

  • Minimum of two (2) years of exposure to the following networking protocols: OSPF, PIM, IGMP, VRRP, and IPSec (as implemented with HAIPE devices)
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance. 
  • An understanding of network security best practices
  • An understanding of RHEL iptables
  • An understanding of the use and configuration of encryption devices (KG-175D, KG-175F, KG-175N)
  • Cisco CCNA certification
  • Hold active CompTIA Security+
  • Ability to work independently with little to no supervision on assigned tasks.
  • Effective communication and writing skills

Preferred

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field
  • Experience in DoD engineering support, ADNS, or Naval aviation
  • Experience with Juniper routers and virtual routing
  • Knowledge of Next Generation Firewalls
  • Experience with network automation tools (e.g. Ansible, Jenkins)
  • Experience with Python or bash shell scripting
  • Experience with unmanned or unattended system use cases or environments
  • Experience with Agile Scrum development framework
  • Familiarity with software-defined networks or SD-WAN architectures
  • Familiarity with ACAS scanning tool
  • Familiarity with resolving networking DISA STIG findings
  • Familiarity with Spirent TestCenter traffic generation tool

For this role, the compensation range for candidates in California is $91K- $130K.  Note: Starting pay will be based on a number of factors and commensurate with qualifications & experience. FTI has a location based compensation structure; there may be a different range for candidates in other locations.

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