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Fiber Characterization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VERITA TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Fiber Splicer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$24 - $28.50/hr

Collaborate with construction crews, project managers, and network engineers * Maintain tools ... Fiber characterization testing * Google Earth or GIS tools * Familiarity with telecom construction ...

VERITA TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Fiber Splicer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$24.50 - $29.25/hr

Collaborate with construction crews, project managers, and network engineers * Maintain tools ... Fiber characterization testing * Google Earth or GIS tools * Familiarity with telecom construction ...

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Fiber Characterization Engineer information

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$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do fiber characterization engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for fiber characterization engineer in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fiber characterization engineer do?

A Fiber Characterization Engineer is responsible for testing and analyzing optical fiber networks to ensure they meet performance standards and support high-speed data transmission. They use specialized equipment to measure parameters such as attenuation, dispersion, and optical return loss. Their work helps telecom companies identify and resolve issues that could affect network quality, ensuring reliable communication services. Fiber Characterization Engineers often collaborate with network designers, installers, and maintenance teams to optimize fiber optic infrastructure.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a fiber characterization engineer?

To thrive as a Fiber Characterization Engineer, you need a solid background in optical engineering or telecommunications, with expertise in fiber optic theory, testing, and analysis, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with OTDR, CD, PMD, and other fiber testing instruments, as well as certifications like FOA or CFCE, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers interpret complex data and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate fiber network assessments, optimize performance, and minimize costly errors in deployment and maintenance.

What is the difference between Fiber Characterization Engineer vs Optical Test Engineer?

AspectFiber Characterization EngineerOptical Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications in fiber optics are commonBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related fields; similar certifications often applicable
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departments focusing on fiber propertiesTesting labs, production lines, quality assurance departments for optical components
Industry UsagePrimarily in fiber optics manufacturing, telecommunications, and researchIn telecommunications, fiber optic component manufacturing, and quality control

The Fiber Characterization Engineer focuses on analyzing and testing fiber optic materials to understand their properties, while the Optical Test Engineer concentrates on testing optical devices and systems for performance and quality. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their specific focus areas within the optical industry.

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Fiber Characterization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fiber Characterization Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,386 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Fiber Testing Tech (itinerant)

Zero DB Communications LLC

Phoenix, AZ

$17 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

Zero dB Communications (ZdB) is a leading fiber optic full turnkey contractor headquartered in Spokane, Washington specializing in splicing/testing and placing fiber optic cables. Zero dB is looking for individuals to work under one of their divisions called NCT (North Central Telcom) in which they provide high quality telecommunications, engineering, furnishing and installing and fiber characterization services across the U.S.


NCT is looking for someone with experience working in telecommunications central offices, communications huts or data centers performing various functions such as the installation or removal of common systems to include transport or switching equipment and associated cabling. Other job duties of this position may include placing fiber optic jumper cables in fiber management systems, the scoping, cleaning, labeling and terminating of the installed jumpers as well as performing testing using an OTDR along with basic remediation based on the test results.


This is an itinerant position which means you would travel to the field, from home per assignment. The targeted area for deployment is in the central region of the US, however, is not limited to this area. 


What's in it for you?

  • Weekly pay!
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Opportunity to gain valuable working skills

Voluntary Benefits offered:

  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Medical (including an HSA)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

Pay: $17.00 - $32.00 per hour based on experience.

Requirements

  • At least 1 year of previous experience working within the communications centers. Previous testing fiber optic experience is preferred.
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license with a driving record that meets company's minimum safety standard.
  • Top notch computer skills.
  • Must possess and supply minor personal tools.
  • Knowledge of optical fiber microscope inspection and cleaning procedures.
  • Knowledge of base level fiber characterization best practices for OTDR.
  • Knowledge of telecommunications network structure.
  • Must be able to read Span Basic documents indicating location and labeling of fiber to be tested.
  • Able to meet physical requirements: lift and/or move up to 50 lbs., squat, kneel, bend, crawl, walk, sit and stand for long periods of time.
  • Enjoy working outdoors in all types of weather.
  • Must be willing and able to transport personal and company-provided tools and equipment in a safe and secure manner.

Travel Demands:

  • Travel by air and/or rental vehicle for all projects.
  • Extensive travel required. Travel will be required up to 100% of the time with traveling back home on weekends most of the time.
  • Larger projects demand weekend travel. The test equipment will either by transported with you as checked baggage or shipped, depending on assignment.
  • Travel is company paid, generally by air with subsequent rental vehicles at project locations.

Schedule:

  • Required to work a minimum of 40 hours per week.
  • 8-hour shift, Monday - Friday.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including some nights, weekends and holidays as needed in addition to regular travel.

If you are interested in joining a fast-paced and growing team, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!


Employment is contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment screen, to include a drug test and an acceptable driving record. This is a safety sensitive position

Apply