1

Dark Fiber Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an Inspector to support the construction of a dark fiber conduit line across Alabama. This job will be working in tandem with a Construction Manager and a Resident Manager. The ...

We are looking for an Inspector to support the construction of a dark fiber conduit line across Alabama. This job will be working in tandem with a Construction Manager and a Resident Manager. The ...

We are looking for an Inspector to support the construction of a dark fiber conduit line across Tennessee. This job will be working in tandem with a Construction Manager and a Resident Manager. The ...

Fiber Design Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

FirstLight offers a robust suite of advanced telecommunications products featuring a comprehensive portfolio of high bandwidth connectivity solutions including Ethernet, wavelength, and dark fiber ...

New

Fiber Design Technician

Altoona, PA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

FirstLight offers a robust suite of advanced telecommunications products featuring a comprehensive portfolio of high bandwidth connectivity solutions including Ethernet, wavelength, and dark fiber ...

New

FirstLight offers a robust suite of advanced telecommunications products featuring a comprehensive portfolio of high bandwidth connectivity solutions including Ethernet, wavelength, and dark fiber ...

New

Sales Engineer

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Work across two of the fastest-growing corners of enterprise tech: network transport (Dark Fiber, Wavelength, Ethernet, DIA) and cybersecurity (MDR, XDR, SIEM, SASE/SSE) -- building fluency that ...

Sales Engineer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Work across two of the fastest-growing corners of enterprise tech: network transport (Dark Fiber, Wavelength, Ethernet, DIA) and cybersecurity (MDR, XDR, SIEM, SASE/SSE) -- building fluency that ...

Showing results 21-40

Dark Fiber information

See salary details

$15

$27

$45

How much do dark fiber jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for dark fiber in the United States is $27.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges do dark fiber technicians face, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Dark fiber technicians often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, troubleshooting physical network issues in varied environments, and keeping up with evolving industry standards. The work can involve outdoor installation, maintenance in adverse weather, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To prepare, job seekers should develop strong problem-solving skills, familiarize themselves with fiber optic technologies, and be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team. Gaining relevant certifications and hands-on experience with fiber splicing and testing equipment can also be highly beneficial.

What is dark fiber?

Dark fiber refers to unused or 'unlit' optical fiber cables that have been laid but are not currently in service. Organizations can lease or purchase dark fiber to create their own private, high-capacity network infrastructure. This allows for greater control, scalability, and security compared to using traditional telecommunications services. Dark fiber is commonly used by businesses, data centers, and internet service providers to meet high bandwidth demands and ensure reliable connectivity.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work with dark fiber?

To excel as a Dark Fiber Network Engineer, you need a strong background in fiber optic networking, telecommunications infrastructure, and typically a degree in electrical engineering or related fields. Familiarity with fiber testing equipment, GIS mapping systems, and industry certifications such as CFOT (Certified Fiber Optic Technician) are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating with teams and clients. These skills ensure reliable network deployment, minimize downtime, and support efficient expansion of high-speed fiber infrastructure.

What is the difference between Dark Fiber vs Network Technician?

AspectDark FiberNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsFiber optic certification, technical knowledgeNetworking certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+), technical skills
Work EnvironmentFiber optic infrastructure, data centers, telecom sitesData centers, office environments, on-site installations
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom, internet service providers, data centersIT companies, telecom, enterprise networks
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding fiber infrastructure rolesNetworking and infrastructure roles

Dark Fiber professionals focus on installing, maintaining, and managing unlit fiber optic cables, often working in telecom and data centers. Network Technicians handle network hardware, troubleshooting, and configuration across various IT environments. While both roles require technical skills, Dark Fiber specialists concentrate on fiber infrastructure, whereas Network Technicians work with broader network systems.

More about Dark Fiber jobs
What cities are hiring for Dark Fiber jobs? Cities with the most Dark Fiber job openings:
What states have the most Dark Fiber jobs? States with the most job openings for Dark Fiber jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dark Fiber job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,818 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Fiber Inspector/OSP Inspector

Avcend

Roanoke, VA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

We are looking for an Inspector to support the construction of a dark fiber conduit line across Alabama. This job will be working in tandem with a Construction Manager and a Resident Manager. The Inspector should be based out of the Roanoke, AL area and expect to travel to the construction sites across Alabama roughly 80% of their time. The following are the primary role and responsibilities:

  • Responsible for all audits in assigned construction segment
  • Will perform an audit on 10% of hand-holes and splice cases
  • Conduct site audits according to requirements (1FA to co-develop with customer)

Deliverables

Regular deliverables expected of the Inspector:

  • Audit Procedure
  • Audit Schedule
  • Audit Result & Mitigation Tracker
  • Audit Mitigation Resolution Tracker