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Dwdm Optical Network Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

Senior Network Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Experience supporting transport network technologies such as MPLS, DWDM, optical transport ... engineering, computer science, operations technology, or a related discipline preferred ...

Senior Network Engineer

Richmond, VA · Hybrid

$103K - $141K/yr

Experience supporting transport network technologies such as MPLS, DWDM, optical transport ... engineering, computer science, operations technology, or a related discipline preferred ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site +1

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... Associate or bachelor's degree in IT, Network Engineering, Audiovisual Systems or related IT ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... Associate or bachelor's degree in IT, Network Engineering, Audiovisual Systems or related IT ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... Associate or bachelor's degree in IT, Network Engineering, Audiovisual Systems or related IT ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site +1

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... Associate or bachelor's degree in IT, Network Engineering, Audiovisual Systems or related IT ...

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Dwdm Optical Network Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$81.3K

$142.6K

$164K

How much do dwdm optical network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dwdm optical network engineer in Virginia is $142,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,600.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DWDM Optical Network Engineer?

A DWDM Optical Network Engineer is a specialist responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) optical networks. These professionals work with advanced fiber optic technology that allows multiple data signals to be transmitted simultaneously over a single optical fiber by using different wavelengths (colors) of laser light. Their tasks typically include network planning, troubleshooting, performance optimization, and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of high-capacity communication systems. They may also work closely with other network engineers, vendors, and customers to deploy and upgrade optical transmission systems. A strong background in optical networking, telecommunications, and related hardware and software is essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DWDM Optical Network Engineer?

To thrive as a DWDM Optical Network Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of optical networking principles, fiber optics, and multiplexing technologies, usually supported by a degree in telecommunications or related field. Proficiency with network management systems, fiber testing tools, and certifications like Cisco or Juniper are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top professionals apart in this role. These abilities are critical for ensuring reliable, high-capacity data transmission and quickly resolving complex network issues in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by DWDM Optical Network Engineers in day-to-day operations?

DWDM Optical Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing signal degradation over long distances, troubleshooting fiber faults, and ensuring network stability during traffic spikes or equipment upgrades. They must coordinate closely with NOC teams, field technicians, and equipment vendors to quickly resolve issues while minimizing downtime. Staying updated on rapidly evolving optical technologies and maintaining detailed documentation are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Dwdm Optical Network Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectDwdm Optical Network EngineerFiber Optic Technician
CertificationsCCNA, CWNA, vendor-specific certificationsFiber Optic Installer, FOA certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, troubleshoot, and optimize DWDM networks in telecom or data centersInstall, splice, and test fiber optic cables on-site
Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providers, data centersTelecom, cable TV, internet providers

The Dwdm Optical Network Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining dense wavelength division multiplexing networks, requiring advanced knowledge of optical systems. In contrast, the Fiber Optic Technician primarily handles installation and testing of fiber cables. Both roles are essential in optical network infrastructure but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dwdm Optical Network Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Dwdm Optical Network Engineer job openings:

Network Engineer II - Optical

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Zayo Group, LLC
Telecommunications • 1 - 5K employees

$61K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Zayo provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world's most impactful companies, fueling the innovations that are transforming our society. Zayo's 141,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to thousands of buildings and data centers. Zayo's communications infrastructure solutions include dark fiber, private data networks, wavelengths, Ethernet, and dedicated Internet access. Zayo serves wireless and wireline carriers, media, tech, content, finance, healthcare and other large enterprises.
Zayo is seeking a Network Engineer II - Optical to be responsible for designing, link engineering and implementing new success based capacity onto the existing DWDM network. Our Network Engineer II - Optical is responsible for effectively communicating with internal order management personnel and various internal teams on the progress of the capacity fulfillment. Our Network Engineer II - Optical is also responsible for meeting/exceeding daily and weekly performance targets.
Responsibilities:
  • Design planning, record creation and capacity fulfillment throughout the U.S and Canadian networks.
  • Work with Project Managers to effectively deliver service requirements to customers.
  • Design DWDM network per Network Architectures standards and future growth of our network and customer base. Implement DWDM wave circuit designs for the core of the network as needed. Creates Engineering Design Packages that are discernible by Operations personnel.
  • Provide timely updates to project managers and leadership for service deliverables and due dates.
  • Review capacity request for correctness and clarifies any design related items back to the responsible departments.
  • Maintain specific customer commitments and deadlines in the Zayo (Salesforce or future system used) database.
  • Provide support to field operations to resolve provisioning problems; reviews and verifies technical data in an effort to project issues.
  • Open, forecast, and maintain a budget based off of the service commitments.
  • Secure quotes from our optical vendors, orders equipment, moves equipment from inventory to the field, writes scopes of works for installation of equipment.
  • Exercise interpersonal skills in working with all internal customers.
  • Perform other related duties or projects as assigned by management.
  • Manage workload to identify critical issues and prioritize those items that must be completed daily.
  • Work around obstacles and roadblocks within the order flow to obtain the priority required by Zayo to meet required due dates. Show initiative in getting work done.
  • Participate in operations-related projects, as needed.
  • Support manager during customer or network escalations as requested.
  • Perform other miscellaneous duties, including staying abreast of technology and network solutions and cross training when needed.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline or equivalent education, training and/or experience.
  • Minimum of three (3) years telecommunications and/or data networking experience.
  • Requires the ability to meet inflexible deadlines; perform non-predictive multiple tasks; and handle customer conflict to a successful resolution.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of optical systems and signal flow designs through fixed or flex grid networks using ROADM technology.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office or Google programs and project management software. Able to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions in controlled situations. Deal with some abstract but mostly concrete variables.
  • Familiarity with majority of the below products:
  • Optical Systems: Fuji, Adva, Ciena, Cisco, Infinera, Nokia.
  • Salesforce, ServiceNow, Sitetracker equivalents.
  • Telecom inventory systems, Metasolv is a bonus.
  • Microsoft Office and Google programs, specifically Visio, Excel or G equivalent.
  • Work Authorization Requirement: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, such as OPT, TN, H1B or any other type of work visa, now or in the future.

Base Salary Range: $61,100 - $94,000 USD/annually, commensurate with experience.
The base pay range shown is a guideline and reasonable estimate for this role. It takes into account the wide variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions. Actual compensation offered may vary from the posted range based upon geographic location, work experience, skill level, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Non- sales roles may be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive plan. Sales roles may be eligible to participate in a sales incentive plan.
Additionally, this position may be eligible for certain benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, disability retirement plans, paid time off.
The posting will be active for a minimum of 3 days. The active posting will continue to extend by 3 days until the position is filled.
Benefits, Rewards & Wellness
  • Excellent Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Generous paid time off policy including paid parental leave

Zayo is an equal opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
As part of the application, hiring, onboarding, and/or employment process, Zayo or its affiliates, partners, and vendors may collect, store, and use biometric identifiers and biometric information (collectively, "Biometric Data"), such as fingerprints, facial geometry scans or other unique biological characteristics. Zayo uses CLEAR1, a third-party identity verification service, to verify applicant identity during the hiring process. CLEAR1 may collect Biometric Data, including facial geometry scans and/or other biometric identifiers, to authenticate your identity. Biometric Data will be retained pursuant to CLEAR1's policies, which can be found here: https://www.clearme.com/clear1-credential-policy-crp. Zayo will not sell, lease, trade, or otherwise profit from any applicant's or employee's Biometric Data. By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge this disclosure. Prior to any collection of Biometric Data - including through CLEAR - you may be presented with a separate consent form and asked to provide your written authorization in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), the Texas Capture or Use of Biometric Identifier Act (CUBI), and other applicable biometric privacy statutes.