ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Kraft Heinz Company

Lead OT Network Systems

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage an engineering team with crucial engineering processes and contribute to strategic decisions ... This is a builder's role: balancing strategic design with tactical execution, introducing standards ...

Uber Freight

Lead Logistics Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... tactical decisions through rigorous analysis, modeling, and collaboration. The ideal candidate ... Logistics Engineering & Network Optimization * Analyze and optimize freight routing, capacity ...

Uber Freight

Lead Logistics Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... tactical decisions through rigorous analysis, modeling, and collaboration. The ideal candidate ... Logistics Engineering & Network Optimization * Analyze and optimize freight routing, capacity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTactical Network Engineer JobsTactical Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tactical Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$112.3K

$162.8K

How much do tactical network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical 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 a tactical network engineer?

A Tactical Network Engineer is a specialized IT professional who designs, implements, and maintains communication networks for military or emergency response operations. These engineers ensure secure, reliable connectivity in challenging environments, often supporting mobile or rapidly deployable units. Their work involves configuring network hardware, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and integrating advanced technologies such as satellite, radio, and wireless systems. Tactical Network Engineers play a crucial role in mission-critical operations, ensuring teams can communicate effectively under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tactical network engineer?

To thrive as a Tactical Network Engineer, you need expertise in network architecture, troubleshooting, and security, typically backed by a degree in information technology or a related field and relevant network certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with tactical communications equipment, radio frequency systems, and military-specific networking tools such as Cisco routers and tactical data links is essential. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication skills are crucial for operating in dynamic and high-pressure environments. These competencies ensure reliable, secure mission-critical communications and rapid response to operational challenges in the field.

What are some typical challenges a tactical network engineer might face when deploying networks in the field?

Tactical Network Engineers often encounter unpredictable environments, including limited connectivity, harsh weather, and rapidly changing mission requirements. Adapting network configurations to support secure, reliable communication with minimal resources is a common challenge. Flexibility, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work closely with field teams and command staff are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring mission-critical systems stay online.

What is the difference between Tactical Network Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectTactical Network EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Security+CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense, field operations, tactical settingsCorporate, enterprise, data centers, office settings
Industry UsageDefense, government, military operationsTelecommunications, IT, corporate networks
Job FocusSecure, mobile, and tactical communication networksDesign, implement, and maintain general network infrastructure

The main difference between a Tactical Network Engineer and a Network Engineer lies in their work environment and focus. Tactical Network Engineers specialize in secure, mobile communication networks used in military and defense settings, often requiring specific certifications and experience in tactical operations. Network Engineers work primarily in corporate and enterprise environments, focusing on designing and maintaining standard network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications but serve different industry needs and operational contexts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tactical Network Engineer jobs near you

Senior Systems Engineer

Kranze Technology Solutions, Inc

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description:
KTS develops complex, cutting-edge avionics and ground hardware and software solutions supporting digital interoperability, survivability, situational awareness, and data collection.  We have a proven track record of delivering high quality products throughout the defense industry.
KTS is seeking a senior systems engineer to develop requirements, create algorithms, perform system design, and integrate and test KTS products with a focus on tactical networking. A strong knowledge of networking fundamentals is required. This is a full-time position at the KTS facility in Des Plaines, IL.
Responsibilities:
  • Work with system architects to develop and evaluate networking algorithms optimized to work in a tactical networking environment
  • Perform modeling and simulation to evaluate networking algorithm performance and support software development of a virtual routing environment tool
  • Develop systems requirements, test procedures and automated tools to evaluate system performance
  • Evaluate new tactical networking radios and communications systems to characterize their networking design and optimize integration with KTS products
  • Rapidly prototype and integrate new tactical radios and communication systems into existing networking designs
  • Assist with system integration, verification and validation, and effectiveness analysis
  • Support demonstration and test events with customers and Warfighters

Required Qualifications & Skills:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering or related field with 10+ years of experience
  • Experience in networking and routing protocols
  • Experience with Linux operating systems and networking stack
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving skills with experience in algorithm design
  • Hands-on hardware and software troubleshooting skills
  • Comfortable with C/C++ or scripting language programming
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to travel
  • Ability to obtain Security Clearance, for which the United States Government requires United States citizenship

Other Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with tactical MANET radios and HAIPE encryptors
  • Technical and integration background with a solid understanding of developing battlespace CONOPS and mission-oriented solutions

We recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company.  As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure we are able to attract the best candidates.  As required by law in this state, the estimated salary range for this position is $100,000-$150,000 and represents our good faith estimate as to what our ideal candidates are likely to expect.  We tailor our offers within the range based on organizational needs, internal equity, market data, geographic zone, and the selected candidate’s experience, education, industry knowledge, location, technical and communication skills, and other factors that may prove relevant during the selection process.
Benefits
Kranze Technology Solutions is proud to provide extremely competitive benefits to all full time employees including:
  • Comprehensive Leave Plan (Paid Time Off)
  • Comprehensive Health Care package including Medical, Vision, Dental, Health Savings Account (HSA), and more
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid Overtime
  • Flex Time and Flexible Scheduling
  • Opportunities to travel
  • Tuition Reimbursement options
  • Casual work environment

About Kranze Technology Solutions
We are part of SPX Technologies’ Communication Technologies platform in the Detection & Measurement business segment. KTS is focused in the defense industry specializing in Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) systems, digital interoperability and networking, and program support for the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command.    We provide hardware and software product development, systems integration, system test and evaluation support, modeling and simulation analysis, and other engineering services to support the Warfighter.
Each team member has significant opportunities to solve a variety of complex technical challenges in small teams while working hand in hand with our defense customers.
KTS is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.  All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other segmenting characteristics protected by law.
If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to:
Human Resources
847-737-7299
resumes@kranzetech.com
 

Powered by JazzHR

FE7UvcIgNc