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Entry Level Network Engineer Jobs in Columbus, OH

Network Apprentice

Columbus, OH · On-site

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

Under direct guidance and supervision, works toward acquiring the knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform entry-level duties with the Network Engineering: * Consults with customers and ...

Engineer Assc - Engineer

New Albany, OH · On-site

$74K - $128K/yr

Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus. Decision Making ... This is an entry level position. Engineer associate's have acquired a Bachelor's degree in ...

This role will support Client's manufacturing network by applying broad knowledge of pharmaceutical ... • Project Management of entry level engineers and contingent workers • Evaluation ...

Perform gas system network and hydraulic analysis * Understand and utilize station maintenance ... Provide guidance, instruction, and coaching to entry-level and other Engineers on team * Assist in ...

Perform gas system network and hydraulic analysis * Understand and utilize station maintenance ... Provide guidance, instruction, and coaching to entry-level and other Engineers on team * Assist in ...

Perform gas system network and hydraulic analysis * Understand and utilize station maintenance ... Provide guidance, instruction, and coaching to entry-level and other Engineers on team * Assist in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Network Engineer information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$29.1K

$102.4K

$148.4K

How much do entry level network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network engineer in Columbus, OH is $102,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, TCP/IP protocols, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Cisco IOS, network monitoring software, and entry-level certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring reliable network performance, troubleshooting issues efficiently, and collaborating with IT teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Network Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Network EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's/Bachelor's degree in IT or related field, certifications like CompTIA Network+High school diploma or equivalent, certifications like CompTIA Network+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot network systems; often involved in planning and configurationInstall, maintain, and repair network hardware and connections; more hands-on troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, telecom, and IT service providers; entry-level role for network design and supportCommon in retail, small business, and technical support roles; focus on hardware and connectivity issues

While both roles involve working with networks, Entry Level Network Engineers focus on designing and planning network systems, requiring more technical knowledge and certifications. Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and troubleshooting, often with less formal education. Both roles are essential in maintaining network infrastructure but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Can you become a network engineer with no experience?

Entry level network engineers can start without prior experience by gaining foundational knowledge through certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA, and developing skills in networking concepts, hardware, and troubleshooting. Internships, labs, and hands-on practice are also valuable for building relevant experience and improving job prospects.

Can you get an entry level job with CCNA?

An entry-level network engineer position often considers the CCNA certification as a valuable credential that demonstrates foundational networking knowledge. While some employers may require or prefer CCNA for entry-level roles, practical experience and other skills like troubleshooting and familiarity with Cisco devices also play important roles in hiring decisions.

What does an Entry Level Network Engineer do?

An Entry Level Network Engineer assists in the design, implementation, and maintenance of a company's computer networks. They support troubleshooting network issues, configuring network hardware, and monitoring network performance under the guidance of senior engineers. These professionals often work with routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment to ensure secure and efficient network operations. Entry level engineers also help with documentation and may participate in installing new technologies as the organization grows.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or certain senior network engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What entry-level jobs can you get with Network+?

Entry-level network engineers with a Network+ certification can qualify for roles such as network technician, help desk technician, or network support specialist. These positions typically involve troubleshooting, installing, and maintaining network hardware and software, and often require familiarity with networking tools and protocols.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level network engineer?

As an entry level network engineer, you will typically assist with configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls. You may also support more senior engineers in implementing network upgrades, performing routine maintenance, and responding to network outages or security incidents. Participating in documentation, inventory management, and helping to onboard new users are also common tasks. These responsibilities provide valuable hands-on experience and a strong foundation for career growth in network engineering.

What Does an Entry-Level Network Engineer Do?

An entry-level network engineer helps plan, build, install, and troubleshoot networks or technology systems for a customer. They commonly work under the supervision of a senior-level network engineer as they gain skills and experience. The responsibilities of an entry-level network engineer include working to troubleshoot customer issues, creating data backups, performing recovery operations, monitoring network performance, and performing network security measures such as examining hardware components that may need to be replaced and managing virus protection software. The minimum qualifications to become an entry-level network engineer include a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer engineering, or a similar discipline.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH? For Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Entry Level Network Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Entry Level Network Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Engineer job openings in Columbus, OH as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,418 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Network Apprentice

Ohio Department of Taxation

Columbus, OH • On-site

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

What You'll Do: 

Under direct guidance and supervision, works toward acquiring the knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform entry-level duties with the Network Engineering:  

  • Consults with customers and senior engineers to gather and evaluate functional requirements and translates these requirements into technical solutions. 
  • Assists assigned Unified Network Services(UNS) team with daily network maintenance tasks (e.g., network installations, device configurations, information gathering, and network monitoring) to provide support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure the continued operation of the Ohio One Network. 
  • Attends and completes training courses relevant to assigned UNS area.   

As a Network Apprentice, you will be learning and working under the guidance of more experienced professionals. Your job duties will involve supporting them in various tasks while gaining hands-on experience and knowledge in the field of network security:  

  • Consults with customers to gather and evaluate functional requirements and translates these requirements into technical solutions. 
  • Assists assigned Unified Network Services(UNS) team with daily network security tasks (e.g., device configurations, information gathering, research and apply security patches, and network monitoring) to provide support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure the continued operation of the Ohio One Network. 
  • Attends and completes training courses relevant to assigned Unified Network Services(UNS)  area. 

Minimum Qualifications

1 course or 2 months experience in Information Systems/Information Technology, or a related field including but not limited to: Software Engineering/Development, Data Analytics/Business Intelligence, Database Administration, Network, IT Security and Help Desk/Customer Support 
-Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications for Employment noted above. 
Job Skills: Information Technology


Knowledge: 

  • Computer hardware and software 

  • Ticketing software (e.g. Service Now) * 

  • Customer Service techniques and standards* 

  • State IT policies, procedures, and applicable laws * 

  • Operations and processes for diagnosing common or recurring system problems* 

  • Database procedures used for querying security tools to gather information * 

  • Electronic devices (e.g., computer systems/components, access control devices, digital cameras, electronic organizers, hard drives, memory cards, modems, network components, printers, removable storage devices, scanners, telephones. 

  • How traffic flows across the network (e.g., Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP), Open System Interconnection Model (OSI)* 

  • Incident response and handling methodologies* 

  • System and application security threats and vulnerabilities* 

  • Personally, Identifying Information (PII)  

  • System and application security threats and vulnerabilities* 

  • Operations and processes for diagnosing common or recurring system problems* 

  • Principal methods, procedures, and techniques of gathering information and producing, reporting, and sharing intelligence* 

  • Organization's core business/mission processes* 

Skills:  

  • Technical writing and documentation practices (e.g standard operating procedures, training documents, workflow diagrams) * 

  • Reading/verbal comprehension (i.e. comprehend and apply written & verbal instructions) 

  • Operating PC Hardware and Software (e.g. MS Word, Excel, PPT, Outlook) 

  • Critical thinking (i.e. impact analysis, troubleshooting) 

  • Conducting open-source research for troubleshooting network and client-server issues* 

  • Basic operation of computers 

  • Using network analysis tools to identify vulnerabilities* 

  • Preserving evidence integrity according to standard operating procedures or national standards*.

Abilities:  

  • Communication (e.g. Oral, Written, Active Listening) 

  • Problem sensitivity/problem solving 

  • Time Manage (e.g. organization and prioritization) 

  • Active learning 

  • Match the appropriate knowledge repository technology for a given application or environment* 

  • Accurately define incidents, problems, and events in the trouble ticketing system*

developed after employment *