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Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Washington

The Lead Technician - Fiber Optic Engineering is responsible for supporting the successful day-to-day execution of fiber optic deployment, splicing, testing, and maintenance activities across large ...

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Fiber Splicer

Reston, VA

$26 - $31/hr

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

New

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and ... Ability or interest in building fiber lasers. Ability to design and execute experiments validating ...

Mandatory Skills Fiber Optic Installation (SM/MM, MPO/MTP, LC), Polarity Management, High-Density Fiber Cabling, BICSI/ANSI-TIA Standards, Fiber Testing & Troubleshooting/Cable Routing ...

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary ... Ability or interest in building fiber lasers. * Ability to design and execute experiments ...

Install, terminate, test, label, and troubleshoot Cat6 copper and fiber optic cabling in accordance ... Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and government personnel to support project execution ...

Install, terminate, test, label, and troubleshoot Cat6 copper and fiber optic cabling in accordance ... Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and government personnel to support project execution ...

Install, terminate, test, label, and troubleshoot Cat6 copper and fiber optic cabling in accordance ... Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and government personnel to support project execution ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer information

What does an entry level fiber optics engineer do?

An Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer assists in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of fiber optic systems used for telecommunications and data transfer. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with tasks such as splicing cables, testing signal strength, and documenting network layouts. This role often involves both fieldwork and office duties, ensuring that fiber optic networks operate efficiently and meet industry standards. Entry level engineers also learn to use specialized tools and software for diagnosing and fixing issues within fiber optic networks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level fiber optics engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optical communication principles, basic electronics, and a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with fiber optic testing equipment, splicing tools, and industry standards such as OTDR and FTTx certifications is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure reliable network installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, which are crucial for efficient telecommunications infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level fiber optics engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level fiber optics engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to work with specialized tools and equipment, interpreting complex schematics, and adapting to strict safety standards. Additionally, they may need time to become proficient in troubleshooting network issues and understanding the nuances of fiber optic installation and maintenance. Collaboration with experienced engineers and field technicians is key, as is developing strong communication skills to report findings and coordinate effectively with project teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectEntry Level Fiber Optics EngineerFiber Optic Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic TechnicianHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting fiber optic systems; office and lab settingsInstallation, splicing, and maintenance of fiber optic cables; fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, networking, and technology companiesTelecom providers, internet service providers, and construction firms

Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineers focus on designing and testing fiber optic systems, often requiring a degree and engineering knowledge. In contrast, Fiber Optic Technicians primarily handle installation and maintenance tasks in the field. Both roles are essential in the fiber optics industry but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environments.

How do I start a career in entry level fiber optics engineering?

To start a career as an entry-level fiber optics engineer, obtain a relevant degree such as electrical or optical engineering, and develop skills in fiber optic installation, splicing, and testing. Gaining certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician can improve job prospects, and hands-on experience through internships or training programs is highly valuable.

How much do entry level fiber optics engineers make?

Entry-level fiber optics engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications. Starting salaries may increase with experience in fiber optic installation, testing, and troubleshooting using tools like OTDRs and fusion splicers.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Fiber Optical Lead Technician

EOS

Ashburn, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

OUR COMPANY:

EOS IT Solutions is a Global Technology and Logistics company, providing Collaboration and Business IT Support services to some of the world's largest industry leaders, delivering forward-thinking solutions based on multi-domain architecture. Customer satisfaction and commitment to superior quality of service are our top business priorities, along with investing in and supporting our partners and employees.

We are a true International IT provider and are proud to deliver our services through global simplicity with trusted transparency.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Lead Technician – Fiber Optic Engineering is responsible for supporting the successful day-to-day execution of fiber optic deployment, splicing, testing, and maintenance activities across large-scale and mission-critical environments. Acting as the second-in-command to the Site Supervisor, this role combines hands-on technical leadership with operational oversight to ensure project deliverables, productivity targets, and quality standards are consistently achieved. The Lead Technician operates in a highly active field-based capacity, providing direct support and coordination to teams of Fiber Splicing Technicians and Field Technicians. This role is responsible for monitoring daily team output, ensuring productivity targets are met, reporting progress updates, and supporting material and procurement coordination to maintain operational continuity. The successful candidate will provide leadership on-site, maintain adherence to safety and quality standards, and act as the primary backup for the Site Supervisor during periods when they are off-site or otherwise engaged. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

 Site Operations & Project Execution

  • Support the Site Supervisor with the planning, coordination, and execution of fiber optic network projects, including new builds, upgrades, and repair activities.
  • Provide hands-on leadership during installation, splicing, testing, and commissioning activities across active project sites.
  • Ensure daily project deliverables and operational milestones are achieved in line with project schedules and client expectations. 
  • Monitor field progress continuously and proactively identify risks, delays, or resource constraints that may impact delivery timelines.
  • Support site surveys, implementation activities, and technical deployment in accordance with engineering design packages (EDPs), technical specifications, and scope of works.
  • Assist with material coordination, inventory tracking, and procurement support to ensure site teams remain operational and adequately supplied. 
  • Provide operational continuity and leadership coverage in the absence of the Site Supervisor. Team Leadership & Performance Monitoring 
  • Lead and coordinate teams of Fiber Splicing Technicians and Field Technicians on a day-to-day basis. 
  • Assign workloads, oversee daily activities, and ensure all field personnel remain aligned with project priorities and productivity expectations. 
  • Closely monitor technician output and performance against defined daily and weekly targets. 
  • Ensure all team members are actively engaged, productive, and operating in compliance with safety and quality standards. 
  • Provide hands-on technical guidance, mentorship, and support to field personnel where required.
  • Escalate performance concerns, operational risks, or resource issues to the Site Supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Promote a culture of accountability, professionalism, teamwork, and operational excellence across all site activities.

Technical Oversight 

  • Provide technical support and guidance for fiber splicing activities, including single-mode, multi-mode, and ribbon fiber applications.
  • Support testing and validation activities using OTDR, OLTS, power meters, and visual fault locators. • Assist in the review and interpretation of OTDR traces, loss budgets, and certification results.
  • Support troubleshooting and resolution of fiber infrastructure issues and network faults.
  • Ensure all installation, splicing, and testing work is completed in accordance with company standards and client requirements.

Quality Assurance & Compliance 

  • Support QA/QC activities through regular field inspections, validation checks, and adherence to established procedures.
  • Ensure all work complies with client standards, engineering specifications, and applicable industry standards (ITU, FOA, BICSI).
  • Verify that documentation, test results, and as-built information are completed accurately and submitted in a timely manner.
  • Maintain strict compliance with all health and safety requirements, including safe working practices within live environments and active construction sites.
  • Identify and communicate recurring quality or operational issues and support corrective actions where required.

Reporting & Communication 

  • Provide daily progress updates and operational reports to the Site Supervisor and project leadership teams.
  • Track and communicate site productivity, completed deliverables, workforce utilization, and outstanding actions.
  • Support coordination between field operations, logistics, procurement, and project management teams.
  • Maintain clear and professional communication with internal stakeholders, subcontractors, and client representatives where required.
  • Assist with reporting on project risks, delays, and mitigation activities to ensure operational transparency.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience within fiber optic splicing, installation, or field operations in data center, metro, or large-scale network environments.
  • Strong hands-on technical knowledge of fiber optic installation, splicing, testing, and troubleshooting methodologies.
  • Experience leading or coordinating field-based technical teams in fast-paced operational environments.
  • Ability to monitor productivity, manage workloads, and drive teams toward defined deliverables and operational targets.
  • Strong understanding of OTDR, OLTS, and fiber certification testing practices.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, fiber schematics, and project documentation.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
  • Working knowledge of industry standards and safety requirements (ITU, FOA, BICSI, OSHA).
  • Proficiency with reporting, scheduling, and project tracking tools.
  • Previous experience acting in a lead hand, senior technician, or supervisory support role.
  • Experience working within data center environments and high-density fiber infrastructure.
  • Familiarity with inventory management, procurement coordination, and logistics support functions.
  • Understanding of QA/QC procedures and field audit processes.

Desirable Qualifications 

  • Industry-recognized fiber optic certifications (FOA CFOT, BICSI Technician, or equivalent).
  • FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) • BICSI Technician or Installer Certification
  • OSHA 10 / OSHA 30 Certification • First Aid / CPR Certification • Confined Space Awareness or Entry Certification
  • MEWP / Scissor Lift / Boom Lift Certification
  • Viavi or Manufacturer-Specific Testing Certifications
  • Structured Cabling Certifications (Corning, CommScope, Panduit, Leviton, etc.)
  • Fusion Splicer Manufacturer Training or Certification (Sumitomo, Fujikura, INNO, etc.)
  • Project Management or Supervisory Training Certifications
  • Manufacturer-specific Data Centre Installation Certifications
  • Health & Safety Certifications relevant to construction or mission-critical environments 

EOS BENEFITS:

At EOS IT Solutions, we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance starting the 1st of the month after your start date. 
  • Travel pay: Compensation provided for any work-related travel outside of your assigned local area, in accordance with EOS travel policy
  • Occasional overtime and bonus opportunities for hourly workers
  • 10 Days of Paid Time Off (PTO) annually
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • 6 Sick Days (available after 90 days of employment)
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with a $2,500 company match (available after 90 days of employment)

The EOS pay range for this job is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, market data, or other laws. 

EOS is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We invite you to consider opportunities at EOS regardless of your gender; gender identity; gender reassignment; age; religious or similar philosophical belief; race; national origin; political opinion; sexual orientation; disability; marital or civil partnership status or other non-merit factor. 

#INDNAMER


#LI-ONSITE