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Fiber Design Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

Security Systems Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Security Systems Design Engineer to join our team! In ... Experience integrating or designing both twisted-pair and fiber optic structured cabling ...

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Fiber Design Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$26

$48

$74

How much do fiber design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber design engineer in Washington, DC is $48.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $56.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fiber design engineer?

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 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 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.

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 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 do fiber design engineers make?

Fiber design engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in optical fiber technology and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.
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Fiber Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fiber Design Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,325 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

Security Systems Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Parsons
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Parsonsexternal

$63K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and design technical security systems for embassies and consulates worldwide.

  • Create complete security system design packages and material take-off (MTO) parts lists.

  • Support in developing solutions for other technical security contingencies and conduct site surveys.

Parsons rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 454 rated engineering

Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Job Description:

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Security Systems Design Engineer to join our team! In this role you will get to develop and design Technical Security Systems for Embassies and Consulates Worldwide.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Site surveys
  • Conceptual design development
  • Development of complete security system design packages
  • Development of Material Take-off (MTO) parts lists
  • Support in developing solutions for other technical security contingencies
  • Travel to OCONUS project sites as required (15%+ travel, annually)

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (or related field) or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • 3+ years of related work experience
  • Experience with solving complex engineering problems across multiple disciplines
  • Experience with AutoCAD and managing campuses with multiple building/floor design sets
  • Experience designing security systems or similar low-voltage/building control systems and their related infrastructure
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, high-pressure environment while handling multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level clearance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a class 1 medical clearance prior to deployment and is a condition of continued employment
  • Manual dexterity required for frequent reaching, climbing, and lifting of moderate objects (50-80 pounds), operation of power and manual tools/equipment, and operating office equipment. Work is in unusual and sometimes difficult positions such as climbing ladders; scaffolding and high lift equipment up to 40 feet, crawl spaces, above ceilings, etc...

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

  • Experience with 3D CAD Software
  • Experience with D-Tools System Integrator
  • Specific experience integrating or designing enterprise-level IP CCTV camera systems, Emergency Notification systems, Automated Access Control systems, Intrusion Detection systems
  • Experience integrating or designing both twisted-pair and fiber optic structured cabling infrastructure systems
  • Experience designing small-scale datacenter UPS systems(<60kW) with hard-wired distribution panels
  • Experience with SCIF design and familiarity with ICD 705 standards
  • Experience integrating or designing professional AV switching systems / video walls (Crestron, Extron, Planar, etc...)
  • Experience with general construction materials and practices

Security Clearance Requirement:

A security clearance is not required to apply; however, the selected candidate must be able to obtain a Secret clearance which requires U.S. citizenship, prior to the start date.

Security Clearance Requirement:

A security clearance is not required to apply; however, the selected candidate must be able to obtain a Secret clearance which requires U.S. citizenship, prior to the start date.This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.Salary Range: $63,600.00 - $111,300.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

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