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New Grad Network Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

IMC

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

... new services, and troubleshoot issues. Requirements: * 8+ years of dedicated network engineering ... experience * Exceptional troubleshooting capabilities across Ethernet LAN, unicast/multicast ...

1 point system

Network Engineer

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

We are seeking a Sr-Level Network Engineer to support Exelon's network refresh programs across multiple projects, including branch refreshes and real estate/customer initiatives (e.g., new site ...

Abacus Technology

Network Engineer

Belleville, IL · On-site

Provide network analysis and design services to engineer, evaluate, and recommend new technologies to meet new contract requirements and optimize network/system performance. * Assist the Government ...

Abacus Technology

Network Engineer

Belleville, IL · On-site

Provide network analysis and design services to engineer, evaluate, and recommend new technologies to meet new contract requirements and optimize network/system performance. * Assist the Government ...

IMC

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

... new services, and troubleshoot issues. Requirements: * 8+ years of dedicated network engineering ... experience * Exceptional troubleshooting capabilities across Ethernet LAN, unicast/multicast ...

IMC

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

... new services, and troubleshoot issues. Requirements: * 8+ years of dedicated network engineering ... experience * Exceptional troubleshooting capabilities across Ethernet LAN, unicast/multicast ...

Abacus Technology

Network Engineer

Belleville, IL · On-site

Provide network analysis and design services to engineer, evaluate, and recommend new technologies to meet new contract requirements and optimize network/system performance. * Assist the Government ...

Wolverine

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... New Jersey area data centers. What You'll Do * Design, engineer, and implement low-latency network ... solutions based on requirements from business stakeholders * Own and manage strategic projects to ...

Talentporte

Network Engineer

Edwardsville, IL

$45 - $50/hr

Network Engineer Position: Contract (12 months) conversion or other projects unknown after ... Lead collaboration sessions between customers and OEM partners to develop new design solutions.

NextRow Digital

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

NextRow is looking to hire a Network Engineer (contract role). Any experience in Hospitality ... Design, implement and support new and existing services for customers and business partners. • ...

Wolverine

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

... New Jersey area data centers. What You'll Do * Design, engineer, and implement low-latency network ... solutions based on requirements from business stakeholders * Own and manage strategic projects to ...

Wolverine Worldwide

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

The candidate is expected to be local to the Metropolitan Chicago area and will periodically travel to Chicago and New Jersey area data centers. * Design, engineer, and implement low-latency network ...

NextRow Digital

Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

NextRow is looking to hire a Network Engineer (contract role). Any experience in Hospitality ... Design, implement and support new and existing services for customers and business partners.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsNew Grad Network Engineer JobsNew Grad Network Engineer Jobs in Illinois

New Grad Network Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$105.7K

$153.1K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for new grad network engineer in Illinois is $105,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,200.00 and $129,400.00 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 Illinois?

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

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

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

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

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

New Grad Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Grad Network Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,662 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Network Engineer

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

Sonoma Consulting Inc.
Business Management Consulting • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Sonoma Consulting Inc.external

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Halo Group places technology experts within the teams of the world's leading companies to help our customers stay one step closer to their customers and one step ahead of the competition.

Job Description

Seeking an experienced Cisco Certified Network Professional who has a hands on understanding of complex L2/L3 network topologies. Having an in depth knowledge of wireless local area networks and WLAN project experience is preferred. This individual must be able to interact well in a team environment, be able to follow a detailed work flow process and comply with all change management procedures and policy. As a network engineer at United you will need to be available for after hour project implementations, hardware installations, and configuration changes. This position reports to the Manager of Network Engineering and will be assigned to 2017 capital initiatives and core support activities.

Qualifications

Experience in Routing Protocols OSPF, BGP, & EIGRP and different platform of Cisco routers ASR1002, 7600, 7200, 3800, 2800 etc.
Expert in Switching L2/L3 and different platforms of Cisco switches Nexus, 6500, 4500, 4900, 3700, 3500, etc. and HPE/Aruba 3810 and 5412z switchesExperience in Wireless LAN technology and understanding of Aruba Access Points and Controllers.
Expert with troubleshooting and hands on for routing & switching
Knowledgeable with Security technologies i.e. Firewalls, VPN, IDS, IPS, 802.1x, Internet Proxy etc.
Experience with different OS and server technologies is a plus.
Team player and inclined towards taking on new challenges.
Be able to deliver detailed design diagrams, complete technical documentation, and develop change scripts, using various tools such as? HP NA, MS Excel, MS Power Point, and MS Visio.



Additional Information

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

Network Engineer

Must be CCNP or higher.

Experience: 7-9 years applicable experience in network engineering.

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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

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