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Fiber Characterization Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist

Granville, OH · On-site

$84.80K - $115.80K/yr

Lead design, synthesis, and optimization of fiber sizing and coating chemistries for thermoset and ... Translate scientific findings into scalable, manufacturable solutions with process engineering ...

Fiber Characterization Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fiber Characterization Engineer, and why are they important?

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 are the typical daily responsibilities of a Fiber Characterization Engineer?

As a Fiber Characterization Engineer, your daily responsibilities usually include performing on-site testing and analysis of optical fiber networks using specialized equipment such as OTDRs, CD/PMD testers, and optical spectrum analyzers. You’ll document and interpret test results to ensure network compliance with industry standards, troubleshoot issues, and provide technical recommendations for network optimization. Collaboration with project managers, network designers, and field technicians is common, as you’ll often be part of a team working to deliver high-quality fiber optic infrastructure for clients. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for accurately conveying findings and ensuring efficient project delivery.

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 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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Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Gooch & Housego PLC

Highland Heights, OH • On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications.
Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.
THE ROLE
We are seeking an Optical Manufacturing Engineer to lead the fabrication and optimization of high-precision optical components used in photonics and laser systems. This role combines deep technical expertise with process ownership, ensuring optical components meet stringent performance and quality standards.
The Optical Manufacturing Engineer serves as the technical authority for polishing processes, driving continuous improvement, troubleshooting complex fabrication challenges, and guiding less experienced team members.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Own and optimize optical polishing and fabrication processes for complex components (e.g., prisms, laser optics, crystals)
  • Develop and refine polishing methods, tooling approaches, and process parameters for various materials
  • Interpret optical specifications (surface figure, flatness, scratch/dig, etc.) and ensure adherence
  • Perform advanced metrology and analyze results (interferometry, profilometry, etc.) to validate outcomes
  • Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions to improve yield and performance
  • Partner with engineering on new product introduction (NPI), feasibility, and process development
  • Establish best practices, work instructions, and process controls
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to Optical Polishers and junior technicians
  • Ensure compliance with quality, cleanliness, and handling standards for high-precision optics

QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5 - 10+ years of experience in optical fabrication, polishing, or precision manufacturing
  • Deep expertise in polishing techniques (pitch, loose abrasive, CNC, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of optical materials and their behaviors
  • Advanced ability to interpret optical drawings and tolerances
  • Experience with optical metrology and surface characterization

ADDITIONAL NOTES
This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line manager.
The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.
Please note that this position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. § 120.15). Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for compliance purposes only.
Salary Description
$100 - $110K annually