Job Title: Network Engineer
Primary Location: Hoffman Estates,  Hybrid in Chicagoland, or Remote—must be able to work within the Central Time Zone.
Position Type: Contract

Overview

We seek a highly skilled and motivated Store Network Engineer with hands-on experience in Cradlepoint, Cisco Meraki, VMware VeloCloud, and general networking technologies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, deploying, managing, and troubleshooting enterprise WAN/LAN networks, with a strong focus on SD-WAN and on-prem/cloud-managed infrastructure.

What You Bring to the Role.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 3+ years of experience in network engineering, including hands-on experience with:

  • Cradlepoint NetCloud and LTE/5G edge devices

  • Cisco Meraki (MX, MR, MS series)

  • VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN

• Strong knowledge of IP networking, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), VLANs, NAT, VPNs, and QoS.

• Experience with enterprise-level firewall and security appliances.

• Ability to troubleshoot complex network issues across different layers and vendors.

• Familiarity with monitoring tools (e.g., NetCloud Manager, Meraki Dashboard, VeloCloud Orchestrator, SolarWinds).

• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certifications such as:

  • Cradlepoint Certified Network Associate (CPNA/CPNE)

  • Cisco Meraki CMNA or CCNA/CCNP

  • VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud certification (VCP-NV)

• Experience with scripting and automation (Python, Ansible) is a plus.

• Knowledge of cloud networking (Azure, GCP) is a bonus.

What You'll Do. (Skills Used in this Position)

• Design, implement, and support network solutions using Cradlepoint, Cisco Meraki, and VMware VeloCloud.

• Configure and maintain network devices including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless controllers.

• Monitor network performance and troubleshoot network issues to ensure high availability and reliability.

• Implement and maintain secure network architectures that align with business and compliance requirements.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on network-related projects, including site deployments, migrations, and upgrades.

• Create and maintain detailed documentation including network diagrams, configurations, and standard operating procedures.

• Manage and optimize SD-WAN environments for performance, failover, and cost-efficiency.

• Provide Tier 2/3 support and escalation for network incidents and outages.

• Stay up to date with industry trends, new technologies, and best practices.

Compensation Information
The expected rate range for this position is $25 - 30 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. This role also qualifies for comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.

This role requires authorization to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship.

All offers are contingent upon the completion of a background check, which may include but is not limited to reference checks, education verification, employment verification, drug testing, criminal records checks, and any required certifications or compliance requirements based on the end client's background check policies and applicable laws.