1

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

Senior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Applies network engineering methodologies for the implementation, optimization, and support of enterprise-level IT infrastructure solutions. Strategic Leadership & Innovation * Act as a visionary and ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Applies network engineering methodologies for the implementation, optimization, and support of enterprise-level IT infrastructure solutions. Strategic Leadership & Innovation * Act as a visionary and ...

Senior Network/Security Engineer

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$59.50 - $77.75/hr

Senior Network/Security Engineer REPORTS TO: Director, Network/Security Services LOCATION: Chicagoland DATE: November 2025 Meridian IT Inc. is an award-winning MSP focused on Infrastructure and ...

Senior Network Engineer

Rolling Meadows, IL

$104K - $143K/yr

Candidate will primarily act in a Tier 3 engineering support role for the enterprise data network platforms performing various activities. Such activities include troubleshooting performance issues ...

Senior Network/Security Engineer

Deerfield, IL · Hybrid

$59.50 - $77.75/hr

Senior Network/Security Engineer REPORTS TO: Director, Network/Security Services LOCATION: Chicagoland DATE: November 2025 Meridian IT Inc. is an award-winning MSP focused on Infrastructure and ...

Senior Network Engineer - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Merge IT is seeking a Senior Network Engineer to join their enterprise-level client in Chicago, IL. The role involves reviewing and updating network configurations, identifying risks, and ...

Sr. Network Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60.25 - $78.75/hr

As a Sr. Network Engineer, you will design and implement network security solutions for hybrid-cloud infrastructure, ensuring critical services for staff and customers. Responsibilities : • Develop ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.8K

$127.6K

$180.4K

How much do senior network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior network engineer in Chicago, IL is $127,618.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,200.00 and $146,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior network engineer?

Senior Network Engineers are experienced IT professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex computer networks within organizations. They oversee network infrastructure, troubleshoot issues, ensure network security, and optimize performance. Typically, they lead network projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with other IT teams to support business operations. Their expertise covers a range of technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, and cloud networking.

What does a senior network engineer do?

A senior network engineer builds and maintains data communication networks for a company or organization. As a senior network engineer, you have several years of industry experience and lead a team of junior network engineers and network administrators to ensure both the local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) are functioning properly. Your job duties include installing software and hardware, creating a layout plan for cables, and troubleshooting and solving problems that arise with the networks for which you are responsible.

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

To excel as a Senior Network Engineer, you need a deep understanding of network architecture, protocols, security, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise in configuring and troubleshooting routers, switches, firewalls, and experience with tools like Cisco IOS, Juniper, or cloud networking platforms, along with certifications such as CCNP or CCIE, are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and leadership are crucial for designing solutions and collaborating with IT teams. These competencies ensure reliable, secure, and scalable network infrastructures that support critical business operations.

What are some common challenges faced by senior network engineers when managing large-scale network infrastructures?

Senior Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies into legacy systems, ensuring network security across a growing number of devices, and maintaining high availability while performing upgrades or troubleshooting. Balancing the demands of multiple stakeholders—like IT, security, and business units—can also be complex. Staying updated with evolving protocols and proactively identifying potential performance bottlenecks are crucial parts of effectively managing large-scale environments.

What is the difference between Senior Network Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectSenior Network EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNP, CCIE, Cisco certificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot complex networksMaintain and support existing network infrastructure
ResponsibilitiesNetwork architecture, advanced troubleshooting, project leadershipNetwork setup, monitoring, routine maintenance

While both roles involve network management, a Senior Network Engineer focuses on designing and implementing complex network solutions, often leading projects. In contrast, a Network Administrator primarily maintains and supports existing networks, ensuring smooth daily operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Senior Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Senior Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,618 per year, or $61.4 per hour.

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Execute physical builds, network installations, and site commissioning for NaaS deployments.

  • Implement network configurations on-site, troubleshoot issues, and perform connectivity validation.

  • Produce installation documentation, maintain records, and assist in process improvements.


Job description

The Role

We are hiring a Field Network Engineer to be our on-site network expert for NaaS deployments. You will execute the physical builds, network installations, and site commissioning that bring new customer sites online. You are comfortable working with your hands in the field — cabling, racking, mounting, aligning — and you understand networking well enough to implement configurations and troubleshoot issues on-site. Our Senior Network Engineer provides remote engineering support; you are the technical presence and on the ground. Customer service, attention to detail and consistency are our key attributes.

What You'll Own Field Installation & Physical Build
  • Execute physical rack and stack of server and network hardware at field deployment sites
  • Install, run, and terminate structured cabling and patch panels to specification
  • Mount, align, and commission wireless access points and antenna systems
  • Deploy and commission 60GHz backhaul radio links — alignment, link budget validation, performance testing
  • Assist with solar and power system installation and commissioning at off-grid sites
Network Configuration & Commissioning
  • Implement network configurations designed by the Senior Network Engineer — switching, VLANs, routing, firewall rules
  • Perform on-site NaaS site commissioning including connectivity validation and handoff testing
  • Contribute to NaaS network architecture for new deployment types
  • Troubleshoot on-site network and connectivity issues; elevate to Cody Jones for remote engineering support
  • Configure and validate enterprise wireless access points and RF systems
Documentation & Handoff
  • Produce as‑built network diagrams and installation documentation for every deployment
  • Complete formal site handoff documentation per the company's 12-phase deployment framework
  • Maintain accurate records of hardware, cabling, and configuration for all active sites
  • Assist in improving processes to provide learning opportunities to both internal and external personnel
What We’re Looking For Required
  • 3+ years in a field engineering, network installation, or systems integration role
  • Solid networking fundamentals — VLANs, routing, switching, IP addressing, subnetting
  • Hands‑on structured cabling experience — pulling, terminating, testing Cat5e/Cat6
  • Experience configuring enterprise switches, routers, or wireless access points in the field
  • Comfortable working in varied physical environments — rooftops, equipment rooms, outdoor installations, elevated structures
  • Strong documentation habits — as‑built drawings, installation checklists, site records
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; able to travel frequently
  • Ability to work at heights — climbing experience or willingness to obtain certification
  • Attention to detail when performing repetitive tasks and the ability to multitask
Preferred
  • Experience with 60GHz, 5GHz, or microwave point‑to‑point/point‑to‑multipoint wireless systems
  • RF fundamentals — link budgets, Fresnel zones, interference analysis, antenna alignment
  • Solar and off‑grid power system installation experience
  • Wireless site survey experience
  • Fiber optic splicing and termination
Details
  • Location: Field-based — Chicago, IL preferred; deployment locations vary nationally
  • Travel: 50–75% — this is a field-based role
  • Employment type: Full-time
#J-18808-Ljbffr