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Fiber Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RCDD / ICT Design Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · 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 ...

Fiber Splicer

Escanaba, MI · On-site

$22.50 - $27/hr

Fiber engineering knowledge of fiber design, reading documentation, understanding of light levels and dB loss. * Work in outdoor utility construction sites. Competencies: * Willingness to learn ...

Fiber Splicer

Escanaba, MI · On-site

$22.50 - $27/hr

Fiber engineering knowledge of fiber design, reading documentation, understanding of light levels and dB loss. * Work in outdoor utility construction sites. Competencies: * Willingness to learn ...

Design Engineer Pay Rate: $65 /hr Location: Lansing, MI Area Code: 517 ZIP Code: 48911 Start Date ... Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or ...

Design Engineer Pay Rate: $65 /hr Location: Lansing, MI Area Code: 517 ZIP Code: 48911 Start Date ... Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or ...

System Design Engineer

Providence, UT · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Our System Design Engineers directly influence the design and deployment of broadband ... Engineer fiber distribution systems, splice plans, and transport architectures. * Perform ...

Fiber Splicing Manager

Forest Hill, TX · On-site

$24.25 - $29/hr

... project managers, engineers, and construction teams to resolve field issues Maintain splicing ... interpret fiber design prints and schematics Excellent leadership, organizational, and ...

We're seeking an experienced and motivated OSP Design Engineer III to lead critical fiber design projects and support our growing engineering team. This role involves taking ownership of complex ...

Responsibilities * Direct a team of Field Coordinators or Outside Plant Engineers to manage ... Previous experience in fiber design and fiber splicing preferred Why Join Socket Fiber? At Socket ...

Fiber Splicer

Becker, MN · On-site

$25.50 - $30.25/hr

Work closely with field technicians, project managers, and engineering teams * Travel to job sites ... Ability to read and understand fiber design maps and schematics * Valid driver's license with a ...

Showing results 41-60

Fiber Design Engineer information

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$23

$43

$65

How much do fiber design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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:
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,495 per year, or $43 per hour.
RCDD / ICT Design Engineer

RCDD / ICT Design Engineer

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 63 rated aerospace companies


Job description

RCDD / ICT DESIGN ENGINEER

As an IT RCDD / ICT Design Engineer at SpaceX, you will work in a complex environment designing and supporting a variety of critical infrastructure. The IT network infrastructure team designs, installs and supports the cable infrastructure used for all types of telecommunications in support of our production facilities, launch infrastructure and spacecraft support systems. This includes the layer 1 fiber and copper data network cabling, operational voice (both wired and wireless systems), video, ground-side vehicle/payload interface RF systems, ground stations, telemetry and optical tracking systems, marine communications, readiness testing, and other systems involved in real-time communications and operations for Falcon, Dragon, Starship, All Recovery Vessels and other missions. Additionally, you will be tasked with designing and overseeing the installation of new cabling infrastructure and processes, with the goal of creating world-class connectivity that can support the mission of enabling life beyond Earth.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provide engineering support for the design, operation, improvement, and troubleshooting of all fiberoptic and copper supported network infrastructure for multiple IP based systems
  • Coordinate downtime activities between maintenance, construction, and production teams to minimize disruptions
  • Drive telecommunication projects using design change requests, power monitoring data, and advanced detection methods
  • Troubleshoot electrical system problems, conduct breaker coordination, arc flash studies, and track electrical load and capacity
  • Coordinate material procurement for large scale projects
  • Write, negotiate, and manage construction contracts with subcontractors across multiple disciplines through contract close-out
  • Collaborate within interdisciplinary teams to design, optimize, and maintain systems
  • Provide telecom engineering support to field technicians to troubleshoot existing equipment
  • Oversee equipment installation, operation, and maintenance to meet specified parameters

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • BICSI RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer) certification; or bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in industrial electrical engineering and medium or high voltage power systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • 5+ years of professional experience with the design or build of commercial or industrial telecommunication systems as LAN/WAN/WIFI/LTE and ISP/OSP structured cabling systems
  • Primary experience with structured cabling for high density commercial applications
  • Working knowledge of low voltage AC and DC applications required for powering IT and telecom equipment through multiple power sources
  • Experience with critical power infrastructure including UPS systems, backup generators, and automatic transfer switches
  • Experience creating and implementing process/design solutions with minimal impact to business operations
  • Able to quickly assess an issue and assist technicians with troubleshooting and repair instructions
  • Ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment, under possible extended work hours and tight deadlines
  • Acute attention to detail, ability to see interactions with other systems to avoid problems
  • AutoCAD/Revit - beginner to intermediate skill level
  • Familiarity with National Electric Code, National Fire Protection Association, and International Building Code
  • Understand and ability to design to national cabling standards (ANSI/TIA/BICSI)
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize and work in an extremely fast-paced environment
  • Strong understanding of construction project management principles, including scheduling, budgeting, and contractor management

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Physical ability to perform hands-on work in various environments, including heat, cold, rain, and tight quarters
  • Must possess or be eligible for Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Must be able to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • Ability to travel as needed
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay Range:    
RCDD/ICT Design Engineer: $110,000.00 - $140,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


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