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Opt Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NO SPONSORSHIP - NO OPT SIEM Engineer II SALARY: $149k - $166K plus discretionary bonus LOCATION ... Security Knowledge Understanding of common log sources, including endpoint, network, identity ...

... J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa) Must-Have * 5+ years in cloud infrastructure or SRE with Azure (networking, compute, storage, identity, security). * Hands-on with ACA (Azure ...

... J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa) Must-Have * 5+ years in cloud infrastructure or SRE with Azure (networking, compute, storage, identity, security). * Hands-on with ACA (Azure ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role so candidates on OPT, F1 Visas and the like cannot ... As an Electrical Engineer, they will be expected to take ownership of their projects with a ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role so candidates on OPT, F1 Visas and the like cannot ... As an Electrical Engineer, they will be expected to take ownership of their projects with a ...

Showing results 21-40

Opt Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$112.3K

$162.8K

How much do opt network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for opt network engineer in Chicago, IL is $112,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Opt Network Engineer?

Opt Network Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting optical networks, which use light to transmit data over fiber optic cables. They work with technologies such as Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), Optical Transport Network (OTN), and other fiber optic systems to ensure high-speed, reliable network connectivity. Their responsibilities include configuring network hardware, optimizing performance, performing maintenance, and resolving technical issues related to optical transmission. Opt Network Engineers play a critical role in telecommunications, data centers, and large enterprises that require robust, high-capacity network infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Opt Network Engineer?

To thrive as an Opt Network Engineer, you need a strong understanding of optical networking principles, fiber optic technologies, and network design, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical transmission systems (such as DWDM/OTN), network management software, and relevant certifications like Cisco or Juniper are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of high-capacity optical networks, which are vital for reliable data transmission and network performance.

What are some common challenges Opt Network Engineers face when managing large-scale optical networks?

Opt Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining signal integrity over long distances, troubleshooting fiber optic faults, and minimizing network downtime during upgrades or repairs. They must work closely with cross-functional teams to coordinate network expansions and ensure minimal disruption to ongoing services. Keeping up with rapidly evolving optical technologies and implementing new solutions while adhering to industry standards is also a key aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Opt Network Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectOpt Network EngineerNetwork Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in IT or related field, certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+Often requires a high school diploma or associate degree, certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and managing network infrastructure in enterprise or data center settingsMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing network hardware and connections on-site or in labs
Employer & IndustryUsed by ISPs, large corporations, data centersCommon in telecom companies, small businesses, and service providers

Opt Network Engineers focus on designing and managing complex network systems, requiring advanced certifications and education. Network Technicians handle hands-on maintenance and troubleshooting, often with fewer credentials. Both roles are essential in network operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Opt Network Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Opt Network Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Opt Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,327 per year, or $54 per hour.

Technical Support Engineer, Distributed Infrastructure (D-IT)

Woodridge, IL • On-site

Eaton Corporation
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$69K - $101K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Eaton rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 231 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

What you’ll do:

The Technical Support Engineer provides expert technical support for power and connectivity-related equipment, including charging solutions, UPS systems, digital signage solutions, network switches, racks and cooling solutions. The role involves assisting customers with troubleshooting, diagnosis, and application assistance via phone, email and chat. Technical support ranges from basic and routine to moderately complex issues, requiring long-term troubleshooting and follow-up. The Technical Product Support Engineer will respond to customer inquiries by following troubleshooting steps, referring to published materials, secondary sources or seeking assistance from senior staff. Detailed records of inquiries, complaints and actions taken must be maintained using various technologies. Technical aptitude is essential.

  • Provide post‑sales technical support to customers, including troubleshooting, investigating and resolving technical problems during and after product installation on a wide range of power protection and data center products
  • Accurately document service request activities and troubleshooting steps
  • Effectively communicate product value propositions and product line strategies
  • Assist the team in improving business processes and electronic tools
  • Serve on special teams and work on projects to enhance team performance and customer satisfaction
  • Help the team meet or exceed team metrics and accomplish complex tasks using a variety of resources
  • Leverage information to provide professional customer support
  • Work rotational 8‑hour shifts between the hours of 7:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m.
Qualifications:

Required (Basic) Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum one (1) year of hands‑on electrical industry experience
  • Relocation assistance is not available. Candidates must currently reside within a 50 mile radius of Woodridge, IL to be considered.
  • Eaton will not consider applicants for employment immigration sponsorship or support for this position. This means that Eaton will not support any CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT plans, F‑1 to H‑1B, H‑1B cap registration, O‑1, E‑3, TN status, I‑485 job portability, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with test equipment (multimeter, ammeter, network sniffer, etc.)
  • Knowledge or experience using Linux operating systems
  • Prior customer facing experience
Skills:

Position Criteria:

  • Possess excellent communication skills
  • Possess excellent time management and organization skills
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
  • Team player and positive attitude
  • Strong professional presence

The expected annual salary range for this role is $69000 - $101000 a year. Salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job‑related reasons regardless of an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Eaton believes in second‑chance employment. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction history will be considered regardless of their arrest or conviction history, consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act and other local laws.

To request a disability‑related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please call us at 1‑800‑836‑6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number.

Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work.

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About Eaton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US