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Fiber Characterization Engineer Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Fiber Characterization Engineer information

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.

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 cities in Idaho are hiring for Fiber Characterization Engineer jobs? Cities in Idaho with the most Fiber Characterization Engineer job openings:

Engineering Intern Fall 2026

Advanced Ceramic Fibers LLC

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Us:
At Advanced Ceramic Fibers, LLC (ACF), we are an award-winning advanced materials company creating revolutionary high-performance ceramic fibers and composites for extreme environments. Through our patented Direct Conversion Process™ (DCP), we transform regular carbon fiber into Fi-Bar™, a metal carbide/carbon core fiber material with capabilities beyond anything currently available. Our innovations support critical applications in space, defense, energy, consumer electronics, and beyond.
The Opportunity:
This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated Engineering student to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in a real-world advanced materials manufacturing environment. As an Engineering Intern at ACF, you will work directly with our engineering and materials science team on cutting-edge ceramic and metal matrix composite technologies. You’ll contribute to process development, materials characterization, data analysis, and continuous improvement projects while learning industry-leading practices in a small, fast-paced, and innovative company. Ideal for students seeking practical experience that complements their academic studies and builds a strong foundation for a career in materials science, mechanical engineering, or manufacturing.
**This internship requires working on-site at our Idaho Falls, ID facility. We are unable to provide relocation assistance or housing support.**
Key Responsibilities:
· Support the development and optimization of new materials, processes, and equipment for advanced ceramic fibers and composites
· Assist engineers with process improvements, experimental trials, and implementation of best practices
· Perform materials characterization using SEM, Instron, and other analytical instruments; document results and maintain material property databases
· Follow and help refine ASTM/ISO-compliant testing procedures
· Collect, analyze, and interpret production and experimental data to support process optimization
· Contribute to equipment maintenance, setup, and basic troubleshooting
· Collaborate with engineers and technicians in a dynamic, team-oriented environment
· Support documentation, reporting, and data visualization efforts
Qualifications:
· Current undergraduate student (Junior or Senior preferred) pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field
· Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
· High degree of honesty and personal integrity, essential for handling technical data and operating in a regulated environment
· Ability to work both independently and as part of a small team
· Basic mechanical or laboratory experience is preferred; familiarity with CAD (SolidWorks), data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, Excel), or 3D printing is a plus
· Must be located in or able to commute to Idaho Falls, Idaho
Additional Requirements
Must be a U.S. person (naturalized citizen or qualifying under ITAR/EAR definitions) and eligible to participate in federally funded programs involving Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
Successful completion of background check and drug testing required prior to employment
ACF is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/D/V
If you are passionate about advanced materials, eager to learn, and ready to make real contributions in a growing high-tech company, we encourage you to apply.
To Apply: Please send your resume with a brief email explaining why you’d be a stand out candidate for this role.
Idaho Falls offers an outstanding quality of life for outdoor enthusiasts — located just 1.5 hours from Yellowstone National Park, Sun Valley, and Jackson Hole, and 3 hours from Salt Lake City. World-class skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, and access to vast wilderness areas are all right in your backyard.