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2 Caltech Network Engineer Jobs Hiring Near You

Senior Network Design Engineer

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$138.30K - $160.30K/yr

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Job Summary Provide top-level network architecture, design, install and provide operational support ...

Caltech Jobs Information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Network Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of network protocols, routing and switching, and typically hold a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco IOS, network monitoring software, and certifications such as CCNA or CCNP are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure set top performers apart. These skills ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of network infrastructure, which is critical for organizational connectivity and security.

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

Network Engineers working with large-scale enterprise networks often encounter challenges such as ensuring network security across multiple locations, minimizing downtime during upgrades or maintenance, and troubleshooting complex connectivity issues. They may also need to balance high availability with performance, manage diverse hardware and software, and coordinate with cross-functional teams like cybersecurity and IT support. Staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies and addressing scalability concerns are key aspects of the role.

What does a Network Engineer do?

A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video, and wireless network services. They ensure network reliability and performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize network security. Network Engineers work with hardware and software, coordinate with other IT professionals, and often manage upgrades or expansions to meet an organization's needs.

What is the difference between Network Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetwork EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting network infrastructureManaging and maintaining existing network systems
ResponsibilitiesNetwork design, configuration, and optimizationMonitoring, maintaining, and supporting network operations
Industry UsageIT, telecommunications, large enterprisesCorporate, small to medium businesses, educational institutions

While both roles involve working with networks, Network Engineers focus on designing and building network systems, whereas Network Administrators manage and support existing networks. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their network needs.

What are the most popular categories at Caltech?
Infographic showing various Network Engineer job openings at Caltech in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Senior Network Design Engineer

Senior Network Design Engineer

Caltech

Pasadena, CA โ€ข On-site

$138.30K - $160.30K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
Provide top-level network architecture, design, install and provide operational support for a wide variety of networking technologies, including routing and switching, firewalls, wireless and optical networks.
Job Duties
  • Design, Install, troubleshoot, upgrade, maintain and troubleshoot network devices (switches, routers, wireless access points, etc.) on campus.
  • Ability to use network traces to analyze, correlate and diagnose application and network problems and behavior. Includes expertise in TCP, HTTP, DNS, DHCP.
  • Ability to analyze network performance through ongoing monitoring and using troubleshooting tools. Recommend enhancements, upgrades and changes to achieve optimum performance levels.
  • Provide technical support and solutions to other IT departments.
  • Interact with campus Internet providers CENIC and Los Nettos, including reporting and troubleshooting upstream network issues. May also attend and participate in technical committee meetings.
  • Participate in Facilities design and construction meetings, and provide input on the infrastructure required in main and intermediate distribution facilities.
  • Maintain awareness with new network technologies and determine their suitability for Caltech's environment.
  • Strong documentation skills, develop network maps, troubleshooting guides, and operational procedures.
  • Able to mentor to the junior team members.
  • Active participation in the design and implementation of an integrated infrastructure supporting the convergence of voice and data services.
  • Work on special projects as needed.
  • Monitor and update our internal trouble ticket system on a daily basis.
Basic Requirements
  • BS/BA degree or a minimum of 3 to 5 years experience as a network engineer.
  • Experience in cross platform network automation and writing scripts using Ansible, Python and Jinja.
  • Solid understanding of TCP/IP, OSI layer and operational experience of network routing protocols including BGP and OSPF.
  • Ability to learn any network operating system including but not limited to Cisco, Arista, Aruba, Ciena and PaloAlto.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills including developing, writing, and reviewing technical documents.
  • Excellent team player, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously and set priorities.
  • Be customer-oriented and comfortable working with a user base with widely varying computer skills and support needs.
  • Be able to respond to off-hours incidents as necessary.
  • Able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
  • Some travel in-state and nationally may be required.
  • Experience in deploying BGP VXLAN and EVPN control plane is a must.
Preferred Qualifications
  • BS degree in Computer Science or a related field.
  • CCNP, CCIE or equivalent certification.
  • Practical knowledge of optical transport systems not limited to Cisco and Ciena.
  • Experience working in Linux operating system, good understanding of network performance testing tools and identifying network bottlenecks is a plus.
  • Experience designing and implementing 100/400Gbps backbone in a multi-vendor environment.
  • Knowledge of Caltech campus environment.

Hiring Range
$138,300 to $160,300 per year
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Disability Accommodations
Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.
If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.