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Fiber Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Fiber Engineer

Ashburn, VA ยท On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Lead the engineering and design of Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), Fiber-to-the-Premise (FTTP), and ... outside plant (OSP) fiber networks from concept through construction. * Ensure compliance with ...

Fiber Designer I - Remote

Merced, CA ยท Remote

$27 - $30/hr

The Fiber Designer 1 plays a key role in the planning and design of fiber optic networks, ensuring the efficient and effective deployment of telecommunications infrastructure contributing to the ...

Senior Fiber Engineer

Charleston, WV ยท On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Lead the engineering and design of Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), Fiber-to-the-Premise (FTTP), and ... outside plant (OSP) fiber networks from concept through construction. * Ensure compliance with ...

Fiber Designer I - Remote

Phelan, CA ยท Remote

$27 - $30/hr

The Fiber Designer 1 plays a key role in the planning and design of fiber optic networks, ensuring the efficient and effective deployment of telecommunications infrastructure contributing to the ...

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic connectivity solutions for telecommunications, data center, and high-performance computing ...

The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic connectivity solutions for telecommunications, data center, and high-performance computing ...

Install and route fiber trunks and jumpers per the pathways plan, maintaining bend radius, pull tension, and proper support/strain relief. * Perform fiber termination/splicing and enclosure work ...

The Design Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end planning and design of fiber optic networks. This includes developing comprehensive network layouts, selecting suitable materials and equipment ...

The Design Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end planning and design of fiber optic networks. This includes developing comprehensive network layouts, selecting suitable materials and equipment ...

The Design Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end planning and design of fiber optic networks. This includes developing comprehensive network layouts, selecting suitable materials and equipment ...

RCDD / ICT Design Engineer

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

RCDD / ICT DESIGN ENGINEER As an IT RCDD / ICT Design Engineer at SpaceX, you will work in a ... This includes the layer 1 fiber and copper data network cabling, operational voice (both wired and ...

RCDD / ICT DESIGN ENGINEER As an IT RCDD / ICT Design Engineer at SpaceX, you will work in a ... This includes the layer 1 fiber and copper data network cabling, operational voice (both wired and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Allen, TX ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Amphenol Fiber Systems International (AFSI) is a full service fiber optic company specializing in ... Mechanical Design Engineer Position requires candidates to be U.S. person as defined in ITAR, 22CFR ...

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Fiber Design Engineer information

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$43

$65

How much do fiber design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber design engineer in the United States is $43.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $50.00 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.
What cities are hiring for Fiber Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fiber Design Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Fiber Design Engineer jobs? The top employers for Fiber Design Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Fiber Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Fiber Design Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Fiber Design Engineer jobs? For Fiber Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fiber Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,495 per year, or $43 per hour.
Senior Fiber Engineer

Senior Fiber Engineer

Zayo Group, LLC

Ashburn, VA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Zayo provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world's most impactful companies, fueling the innovations that are transforming our society. Zayo's 141,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to thousands of buildings and data centers. Zayo's communications infrastructure solutions include dark fiber, private data networks, wavelengths, Ethernet, and dedicated Internet access. Zayo serves wireless and wireline carriers, media, tech, content, finance, healthcare and other large enterprises.
The Senior Fiber Engineer is responsible for all aspects of fiber design and allocation, route design, and map creation. Projects requiring Fiber Design can either be customer funded based on service orders or company funded initiatives (ie: expansion, overbuild, municipal projects, etc.)
Essential Job Functions:
  • Lead the engineering and design of Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), Fiber-to-the-Premise (FTTP), and outside plant (OSP) fiber networks from concept through construction.
  • Ensure compliance with customer specifications, industry standards, local regulations, and company design guidelines.
  • Perform comprehensive QA/QC reviews of engineering deliverables to identify design deficiencies, conflicts, and constructability concerns prior to construction release
  • Maintain accurate engineering records, project documentation, and revision control processes.
  • Participate in customer meetings and provide technical expertise regarding network design solutions.
  • Deliver weekly project status updates, including schedule progress, risks, resource requirements, and issue resolution
  • Provide engineering support during construction activities, addressing escalated questions and field design issues
  • Create, review, and interpret fiber splice plans and fiber assignment documentation
  • Interpret and analyze fiber testing results, including OTDR traces, insertion loss testing, continuity testing, and power meter readings
  • Validate network acceptance criteria and ensure compliance with customer performance standards
  • Utilize engineering judgment to resolve complex technical challenges with minimal supervision

Education/Certifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 2-year technical degree or equivalent work experience
  • BS/BA (preference to Civil, Construction, or Electrical Engineering Degrees) or equivalent work experience preferred

Experience/Minimum Requirements
  • Five (5) years, or greater, of fiber engineering and construction management experience or equivalent and one (1) year, or greater, of field experience with outside plant.
  • Knowledge of Outside Plant Construction techniques (aerial & underground) required
  • Working knowledge of NESC, NEC and OSHA standards required

Other Skills/Abilities
  • Ability to use GIS platforms and systems to create OSP network records and designs is required
  • Ability to use AutoCAD for the creation of permit drawings is preferred
  • Preference will be given to candidates with BSCE, or equivalent work experience
  • Advanced knowledge of FTTH/FTTP network architecture and OSP engineering practices.
  • Strong understanding of fiber optic cable design, splicing methodologies, and testing procedures.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, utility records, GIS data, and engineering documentation.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and customer relationship management skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to prioritize competing demands and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated leadership, accountability, and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to review field conditions and perform occasional site visits as required.
  • Ability to work extended hours when necessary to support project deadlines and customer commitments.

Estimated base salary range: $95,100 - $146,300 USD/annually.
The base pay range shown is a guideline and reasonable estimate for this role. It takes into account the wide variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions. Actual compensation offered may vary from the posted range based upon geographic location, work experience, skill level, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Non- sales roles may be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive plan. Sales roles may be eligible to participate in a sales incentive plan.
Additionally, this position may be eligible for certain benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, disability retirement plans, paid time off.
The posting will be active for a minimum of 3 days. The active posting will continue to extend by 3 days until the position is filled.
Benefits, Rewards & Wellness
  • Excellent Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Generous paid time off policy including paid parental leave

Zayo is an equal opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.