1

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

C++ Developer

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$48.50 - $65.50/hr

NO SPONSORSHIP - NO OPT C++ DEVELOPER - Low Latency Trading Systems SALARY: $150k - $175k plus ... network socket programming. TCP/UDP Linux Unix. Knowledge of financial markets securities or ...

... 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 ...

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

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL

$58.75 - $78/hr

Advanced networking knowledge - including VPCs, subnets, DNS, load balancing, firewall rules, VPNs ... You can also opt into alegal plan,pet insurance, andtravel accident coverage. For Your Family

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58.75 - $78/hr

Advanced networking knowledge - including VPCs, subnets, DNS, load balancing, firewall rules, VPNs ... You can also opt into a legal plan, pet insurance, and travel accident coverage. For Your Family

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58.75 - $78/hr

Advanced networking knowledge - including VPCs, subnets, DNS, load balancing, firewall rules, VPNs ... You can also opt into a legal plan, pet insurance, and travel accident coverage. For Your Family

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL

$58.75 - $78/hr

Advanced networking knowledge - including VPCs, subnets, DNS, load balancing, firewall rules, VPNs ... You can also opt into alegal plan,pet insurance, andtravel accident coverage. For Your Family

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 Aug 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Opt Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Opt Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Opt Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Opt Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,327 per year, or $54 per hour.

Lead, Cyber Security Engineer

Northern Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Northern Trust rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Northern Trust
As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking services, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world's most successful individuals, families, corporations and institutions.
Since 1889, we have aligned our efforts with our three guiding Principles That Endure: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. Together, they reflect the three cornerstones of business conduct which we strive to instill in our employees, whom we call partners, and to provide to our clients and the communities we serve worldwide.
With more than 135 years of financial experience and over 24,000 partners, we serve the world's most sophisticated clients using leading technology and exceptional service.
Role Summary
Lead Cyber Security Engineer responsible for designing, implementing, upgrading, administering, and supporting enterprise Data Protection, Zscaler DLP, Encryption, API Security, and Broadcom Layer7 API Gateway solutions. Acts as a technical lead, drives cybersecurity initiatives, provides L3 production support, and partners with business and technology teams to deliver secure, scalable, and highly available solutions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead implementation and optimization of Zscaler DLP, Microsoft Purview DLP, CASB, Endpoint DLP, and data protection controls.
  • Lead Broadcom Layer7 API Gateway installation, configuration, upgrades, migrations, and administration across DEV, UAT, and PROD environments.
  • Design and support high-availability architectures including clustering, replication, failover, disaster recovery, and business continuity.
  • Design, deploy, and manage API security controls, gateway policies, and integration solutions.
  • Troubleshoot gateway, networking, database, security, and integration issues; perform root cause analysis.
  • Perform health checks, pre-upgrade assessments, post-deployment validation, and operational readiness reviews.
  • Monitor security events, investigate incidents, support threat detection and response activities, and provide production support.
  • Integrate security platforms with SIEM solutions and drive automation and DevOps opportunities.
  • Collaborate with infrastructure, network, database, cloud, and security teams.
  • Develop operational runbooks, technical documentation, upgrade procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Provide technical leadership, mentoring, engineering guidance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Required Technical Skills
  • Zscaler DLP, Microsoft Purview, Defender Suite, CASB, Endpoint DLP
  • Broadcom Layer7 API Gateway Administration, Upgrades, Migrations, and Policy Management
  • High Availability, Clustering, Replication, Disaster Recovery, and Business Continuity
  • Linux/Unix Administration and MySQL Administration
  • Network Security, SSL/TLS, DNS, Firewall Connectivity, and Networking
  • Threat Detection, Incident Response, Root Cause Analysis, and Production Support
  • Azure Security Services, SIEM Platforms, Automation, Scripting, CI/CD, and DevOps Practices
Preferred Skills
  • Kubernetes and Containerized Deployments
  • Helm Charts and YAML Configuration
  • Logging and Diagnostic Tools
  • Enterprise API Management Platforms
  • Experience working in regulated environments
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years of Cyber Security, Data Protection, Encryption, API Security, or Layer7 API Gateway experience.
  • CISSP, CISM, CISA, GIAC/SANS, or cloud security certifications preferred.
Leadership Scope
  • Lead medium-to-large cybersecurity initiatives and platform upgrades.
  • Serve as an escalation point for critical incidents and production issues.
  • Drive engineering standards, automation, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
  • Influence security architecture, technology roadmaps, and platform strategy.
  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders and communicate effectively with leadership.

Salary Range:
Salary range is a good faith estimate of base pay. Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits package including retirement benefits (401k and pension), health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts and disability), paid time off, parental and caregiver leave, life & accident insurance, and other voluntary and well-being benefits. Northern Trust also provides a discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component.
Work Authorization
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. Northern Trust will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa).
Working with Us
As a Northern Trust partner, you will be part of a flexible and collaborative work culture, which has a strong history of financial strength and stability. Movement within the organization is encouraged, senior leaders are accessible, and you can take pride in working for a company committed to an inclusive workplace and assisting the communities we serve.
Philanthropy is deeply rooted in Northern Trust's history and is an essential element of our culture. Employees around the world give their time and talent to work for the greater good of their communities.
Reasonable Accommodation
Northern Trust is committed to working with and providing adjustments to individuals with health conditions and disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email our HR Service Center at MyHRHelp@ntrs.com, or alternatively you can discuss your individual requirements with the recruiter you are working with.

What Northern Trust employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom