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Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Washington

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$80K - $145K/yr

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 ...

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Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer information

How much do entry level fiber optics engineers get paid?

Entry-level fiber optics engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions but tend to increase with experience and specialized skills such as fiber splicing or testing tools.

How do you 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 engineering, telecommunications, or physics. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships, learning about fiber optic installation and testing tools, and earning certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician can improve job prospects.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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:
Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs near you
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 Splicer Trainee

MasTec Communications Group

Sterling, VA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Overview
MasTec Communications Group is a leading national infrastructure construction company operating throughout the United States.
MasTec Communications Group performs both wireline and wireless communication services on a national scale. We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services.
At MasTec you'll be joining a family, where we are dedicated to supporting each other and building an atmosphere of teamwork. As part of our team, your opportunities are limitless.
Responsibilities
After completion of training, Fiber Splicer Trainees will have a working knowledge of various cable types such as loose tube, central tube, armored, gel-filled, etc.
In addition, you will:
  • Testing and troubleshooting the continuity of fiber optic networks
  • Operate all testing equipment and be adept at resolving challenges common to fiber optic networks
  • Experience prepping fiber splice enclosures such as Tyco, CommScope, Corning, etc.
  • Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter
  • Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading documentation, understanding of light levels, and dB loss
  • Work in outdoor utility construction sites

Qualifications
About You:
  • Safety is a value you live by
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality
  • You are flexible and enjoy a variety of shifts with overtime
  • You have a valid driver's license and the ability to obtain a DOT Med card for driving purposes (Applicants are subject to an MVR review and must meet company standards for a safe driving record)

Compensation of $24 per hour.
Hard work pays off. See what you'll get for your effort:
Financial Security
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher

Health and Wellness
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Work/Life Balance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Family and medical leave
  • Paid sick time

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let's talk. Build your career with MasTec!
MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers

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