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Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will ...

Founded in 2011, Greenlight Networks designs, builds, and operates a high-speed fiber-optic network ... Support engineering requests with repair and maintenance activities if needed * Provide the ...

... Engineering. • Trouble ticket handling (create, resolve, escalate and directing through to ... FirstLight, headquartered in Albany, New York, provides fiber-optic data, Internet, data center ...

Founded in 2011, Greenlight Networks designs, builds, and operates a high-speed fiber-optic network ... Responsible for completing and following up on construction and field engineering requests. * Work ...

Founded in 2011, Greenlight Networks designs, builds, and operates a high-speed fiber-optic network ... Responsible for completing and following up on construction and field engineering requests. * Work ...

... fiber optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ...

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... fiber optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ...

New

... fiber optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ...

New

... fiber optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ...

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Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do entry level fiber optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level fiber optics engineer in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is fiber optic certification worth it?

For an entry-level fiber optics engineer, certification demonstrates foundational knowledge of fiber optic systems, installation, and testing, which can improve job prospects and credibility. It often involves learning industry-standard tools and techniques, making it a valuable credential for career development in the field.

Is fiber technician an entry-level job?

Fiber technician roles are often considered entry-level positions in the telecommunications industry, requiring basic knowledge of fiber optic installation, splicing, and testing. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and certifications such as FOA or OSHA can enhance job prospects for beginners.

How to become a fiber optic engineer?

To become a fiber optic engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or a related field is required. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in fiber optic installation and testing, and obtaining certifications such as FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician can enhance 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 do I start a career in fiber optics?

To start a career as an entry-level fiber optics engineer, obtain a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships, learning to install and maintain fiber optic systems, and earning certifications such as FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician can improve job prospects.

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 Rochester, NY? For Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Thin Film Coating Technician

Thin Film Coating Technician

Corning

Fairport, NY

$60K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 75190
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with:
  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Scope of Position:
As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will work closely with the engineering team to demonstrate new thin film coating and manufacturing processes that build on Corning's existing knowledge base to move products into coating production. This is a hands-on technical role requiring use of thin film deposition equipment and tooling, measurement instrumentation, and skills in optics cleaning and inspection.
Major Responsibilities:
  • Daily support of coating test activities, process set-up, hardware evaluation, coating measurements and characterization, analysis of results.
  • Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files, maintain organized coating file history, oversee coating test sample handling and storage.
  • Understand and use existing / new metrology methods to characterize thin film designs and manufacturing performance.
  • Perform optics Coating Inspection (CI) function as required for new projects including as-received quality inspection, pre-coat cleaning, post-coat inspection and packaging.
  • Assist in transfer knowledge of new coating processes into manufacturing. Provide training as needed. Author work instructions, process sheets, and demonstrate measurement methods for new products.
  • Engage with Mechanical Design team to design and fabricate prototype and production optical element tooling, customized coating chamber hardware, and metrology tools.
  • Work to improve cleaning, material handling, and storage procedures within the coating process flow.
  • Utilize Design for Manufacturing principles to determine optimal manufacturing strategies and Manufacturing Engineering Excellence (MEE) practices into thin film product and process work.
  • Contribute to and document activities furthering coating technology via internal reports, invention disclosures, and patent applications.

Required Education and Experience:
  • 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study.
  • Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing and testing), preferably in the UV and visible wavelength ranges.

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Critical thinking to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
  • Knowledge of FilmStar thin film design and measurement software.
  • Thin film characterization - spectrophotometer, ellipsometer, MIL spec testing.
  • Electron beam, thermal evaporation, and ion-assisted deposition. High-vacuum practice; vacuum chamber operation, system control, and support equipment.
  • Understanding of optical substrate materials; optics handling, cleaning, and inspecting.
  • Contamination control and cleanroom operations.
  • Excellent mechanical ability. Familiar with mechanical design and fabrication techniques. Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
  • A genuine manufacturing thought approach, and the associated level of urgency needed to support manufacturing, when required.
  • Able to effectively collaborate at a higher level with a multi-disciplinary team engineers and technicians across Engineering, Development, and Manufacturing functions to execute on new coating ideas and concepts.

Travel Requirements:
  • Less than 10%. Typical travel includes training, networking opportunities, customer visits, technical conferences, and benchmarking activities as required.

Hours of work:
  • Typical first shift production hours, M - F, 8AM - 5PM. Extra and off-hours may be required during times of heightened project activity to meet deliverables.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $60,821.00 - $83,629.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at [email protected].

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