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Fiber Design Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

NxT Level

Traffic Design Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

... fiber optic communications. You will also have the chance to mentor team members as they advance in their careers. Key Responsibilities: * Leading transportation engineering design projects of ...

NxT Level

Traffic Design Engineer

Seattle, WA

... fiber optic communications. You will also have the chance to mentor team members as they advance in their careers. Key Responsibilities: * Leading transportation engineering design projects of ...

Zero db Communications LLC

Fiber Optic Splicers

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Join the Team That's Building the Future of Fiber! Zero dB Communications (ZdB) is one of the West ... design, engineering, construction, splicing, and testing across the western United States. With 90 ...

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All JobsFiber Design Engineer JobsFiber Design Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Fiber Design Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$26

$48

$74

How much do fiber design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber design engineer in Seattle, WA is $48.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.42 and $56.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Fiber Design Engineers during project execution?

Fiber Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, navigating complex permitting processes, and adapting designs to site-specific constraints like existing infrastructure or geographical obstacles. Balancing cost efficiency with network performance requirements and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards are also central to the role. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the engineer frequently collaborates with construction teams, local authorities, and clients to keep projects on track.

What Does a Fiber Design Engineer Do?

A fiber design engineer, also known as an outside plant engineer (OSP), is a telecommunications engineer who designs optic cable systems. Your responsibilities include fiber design and its allocation, developing route maps for cable and assessing the terrain through which your cabling must pass, creating budgets for projects, determining the types of materials necessary to complete orders, and ensuring you have the right inventory for each project. Your designs and analyses are then passed off to a contractor or project manager who implements your designs.

What is the difference between Fiber Design Engineer vs Optical Network Engineer?

AspectFiber Design EngineerOptical Network Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Telecom Engineering, certifications like CCNA, Fiber Optic certificationsBachelor's in Electrical/Telecom Engineering, certifications like CCNA, Fiber Optic certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning fiber optic networks, planning layouts, and specificationsImplementing, troubleshooting, and maintaining optical networks
Industry UsageTelecom, internet service providers, network infrastructureTelecom, data centers, network service providers

While both roles require similar technical credentials and work within the telecom and network industries, a Fiber Design Engineer primarily focuses on designing fiber optic networks, whereas an Optical Network Engineer handles the deployment, troubleshooting, and maintenance of these networks.

How much does a fiber engineer get paid?

The average salary for a fiber design engineer ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or with additional certifications in fiber optics and network design.

What are Fiber Design Engineers?

Fiber Design Engineers are professionals who plan, design, and oversee the installation of fiber optic networks for telecommunications, internet, and data services. They create detailed network layouts, select appropriate materials, and ensure designs meet industry standards and client specifications. Their work involves collaborating with construction teams, conducting site surveys, and using specialized software to optimize network performance. Fiber Design Engineers play a crucial role in expanding high-speed internet and communication infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Fiber Design Engineer, you need a solid background in telecommunications engineering, fiber optic network design, and a relevant degree such as electrical or civil engineering. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, GIS systems, and knowledge of industry standards (e.g., ITU, ANSI) are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These capabilities ensure the accurate planning, implementation, and maintenance of reliable, high-performance fiber optic networks.

How much do fiber engineers make?

Fiber Design Engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or with advanced technical knowledge of fiber optic systems.

What does a fiber design engineer do?

A fiber design engineer develops and optimizes optical fiber layouts and systems used in telecommunications and data transmission. They use specialized software and testing tools to ensure fiber performance, durability, and compliance with industry standards, often working closely with manufacturing and installation teams.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some highly specialized or executive-level engineers, such as senior engineering managers or chief engineers in certain industries, can earn this level of compensation. Factors influencing high salaries include extensive experience, advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and working in high-paying sectors like technology or aerospace.
More about Fiber Design Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Fiber Design Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Fiber Design Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Fiber Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fiber Design Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,906 per year, or $49 per hour.
Traffic Design Engineer

Traffic Design Engineer

NxT Level

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Traffic Design Engineer
Our client is proud to be 100% employee-owned with a commitment to making a meaningful difference in our communities. As part of their team, you will experience a collaborative environment where every employee-owner is encouraged to share ideas and participate in strategic discussions focused on shaping the future of transportation and the organization. At our client's company, the employee-owners come first. They recognize that their unique and diverse employee-owners are the heart of the firm. They not only work diligently to achieve their goals but also celebrate their victories enthusiastically! They welcome the opportunity for you to become an employee-owner!
Position Overview: This role involves managing the design of various transportation engineering projects, including traffic signals, roadway/street lighting, signing, striping, temporary traffic control, intelligent transportation systems (ITS), and fiber optic communications. You will also have the chance to mentor team members as they advance in their careers.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Leading transportation engineering design projects of varying complexity, including scope, schedule, budget, earned value analysis, staffing allocation, and accounts receivable.
  • Overseeing and reviewing the preparation of final design plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) for projects that may involve traffic signals, roadway lighting, permanent signing, pavement markings, temporary traffic control (maintenance of traffic), ITS elements (CCTV, ATM, etc.), and fiber optic communications.
  • Attending client and project design team meetings to provide project updates, resolve design issues, and coordinate design elements with other disciplines.
  • Building relationships with clients.
  • Mentoring junior staff in their professional growth and enhancing their skills.
  • Pursuing additional professional growth opportunities in project management, business development, technical expertise, etc.

Our Ideal Candidate:
  • Holds a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Has 6+ years of experience in traffic engineering design.
  • Possesses some project management or task lead experience.
  • Has a PE license.
  • Has a basic understanding of AutoCAD and Microstation software packages.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of industry practices and regulations.
  • Exhibits strong written and verbal communication skills.

Don't meet every requirement? Studies show that women, communities of color, and historically underrepresented talent are less likely to apply for a position unless they meet every qualification. At our client's company, they are dedicated to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification, we strongly encourage you to apply. You may be just who we're looking for.
Our Benefits: Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to encourage happy, healthy, and engaged employee-owners, including:
  • 10 Vacation Days & 8.66 Sick Pay Days
  • 8 Paid Holidays
  • Employer-paid Disability, Life, AD&D Insurance Coverage
  • 100% employer-paid Medical Premium for employee-owners
  • 80% employer-paid Medical Premium for spouses and dependents
  • Affordable Dental & Vision Plans
  • Flexible Spending Account (Health Care & Dependent Care), Transit Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account Options
  • Paid Jury/Witness Duty
  • Paid Bereavement
  • Leave without Pay
  • Transit Subsidy
  • Pre-tax Commuter Option
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) funded by our client
  • 401k Pre-tax and Roth options
  • Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement

Professional Growth Commitment:
  • Training & Educational Assistance
  • Professional Registration Award
  • Technical & Professional Societies
  • Conferences & Seminars
  • Annual Bonus Program
  • Years of Service Awards
  • Flexible Work Schedule

Apply