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Fiber Network Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Zayo's 141,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to ... Our Fiber Engineer Specialist will report to the Fiber Engineering Manager, with regular ...

Network Engineer Department: Technology Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago, IL ... Experience troubleshooting fiber optic connectivity within and between data center locations Bonus ...

The Network Engineer will be part of a team that works with Wolverine's software engineers and ... Experience troubleshooting fiber optic connectivity within and between data center locations Bonus ...

The Network Engineer will be part of a team that works with Wolverine's software engineers and ... Experience troubleshooting fiber optic connectivity within and between data center locations Bonus ...

The Outside Plant Engineer will be responsible for tasks related to OSP engineering, network design, OSP construction, and ensuring the efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the ...

The Outside Plant Engineer will be responsible for tasks related to OSP engineering, network design, OSP construction, and ensuring the efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the ...

Senior Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

As a member of the Infrastructure Engineering team, the Network Engineer also participates in the ... and fiber cabling, validating ISP connectivity, and implementing standardized network designs.

OSP Engineering / Fiber Network Deployment Travel: Field travel required Key Responsibilities: * Manage aerial and underground OSP field surveys for fiber network deployments. * Validate field data ...

Job Summary Lightpath is seeking an OSP Permit Coordinator who will be responsible for supporting the construction of the fiber network. The candidate will be working with Engineering Vendors and ...

New

Job Summary The OSP Designer is responsible for preparing, revising, and maintaining Outside Plant (OSP) engineering drawings and construction documentation for fiber optic network projects. This ...

Job Summary The OSP Designer is responsible for preparing, revising, and maintaining Outside Plant (OSP) engineering drawings and construction documentation for fiber optic network projects. This ...

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Fiber Network Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$112.3K

$162.8K

How much do fiber network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for fiber network engineer in Chicago, IL is $112,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fiber network engineer?

Fiber Network Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and maintain fiber optic networks used for high-speed data transmission. They are responsible for planning network layouts, overseeing fiber installations, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and ensuring the network meets performance and reliability standards. Fiber Network Engineers often work with telecommunications companies, internet service providers, and large organizations to support critical communication infrastructure. Their expertise is essential for supporting the backbone of modern internet and communication systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fiber network engineer?

To thrive as a Fiber Network Engineer, you need expertise in fiber optic network design, installation, troubleshooting, and a relevant degree in telecommunications, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as OTDRs (Optical Time Domain Reflectometers), fiber splicing equipment, and certifications like FOA or CFOT are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate and resolve complex technical issues efficiently. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring reliable, high-performance fiber networks that meet the demands of modern connectivity.

What are some common challenges faced by fiber network engineers during fiber optic cable installations?

Fiber Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring minimal signal loss when splicing cables, working in diverse environments (e.g., underground, aerial, or inside buildings), and coordinating with construction crews or local authorities to avoid service disruptions. They must also troubleshoot and resolve unexpected issues like damaged cables or changes in site conditions. Staying updated with the latest fiber optic technologies and adhering to safety and industry standards are also crucial aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Fiber Network Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectFiber Network EngineerFiber Optic Technician
CertificationsCCNA, Fiber Optic certifications, Cisco certificationsFOA certifications, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and troubleshooting in offices or field sitesInstallation, splicing, and testing in the field
ResponsibilitiesNetwork design, system integration, troubleshootingFiber splicing, cable installation, testing
Industry UsageTelecom providers, ISPs, network companiesTelecom, cable companies, installation contractors

While both roles work with fiber optics, Fiber Network Engineers focus on designing and managing fiber optic networks, whereas Fiber Optic Technicians handle installation, splicing, and testing in the field. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do fiber network engineers make?

Fiber network engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in areas with high demand for fiber infrastructure.

How much does a fiber network engineer get paid?

A fiber network engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand for fiber infrastructure.

What does a fiber network engineer do?

A fiber network engineer designs, installs, maintains, and troubleshoots fiber optic communication networks. They work with fiber cables, network hardware, and testing tools to ensure reliable high-speed data transmission, often requiring knowledge of network protocols and certifications such as FOA or BICSI. Their role involves both fieldwork and technical planning to support broadband infrastructure.

What are popular job titles related to Fiber Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Fiber Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fiber Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fiber Network Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fiber Network Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fiber Network Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Fiber Network Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,327 per year, or $54 per hour.

Network Fiber Engineer/Project Manager

Hi-Tech Solutions

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Company Description

This is a full time, role for an Network Fiber designer and project manager

Job Description

Searching for Fiber Network Engineer/Project manager, 12-18 month contract role located in Oakbrook, IL


The candidate should possess their own transportation to travel within the Northern Illinois Our client territory. It should be expected that office to field time would be approximately a 60/40 mix. Below is a list of items the candidate should be able to perform. 


Is responsible to manage seven fiber drawing types per our client IT drawing standards: Fiber Allocation Tables, Fiber Diagrams, Key Maps, Link Drawings, Site Drawings, Wavelength Allocation Tables and Logic Drawings.


Extensive work with BGP routing protocol.

Extensive work with Cisco routers and switches

Candidate must have at minimum 3-5 years in ISP/OSP fiber construction and be familiar with standard installation practices such as ADSS, directional boring and other aspects fiber network design and construction. 

Candidate must be able to work with little direction to ascertain fiber optic construction scope of work which is a small but critical part of very large electrical projects. Also they should have the ability to provide a project estimate, bid and execute the work managing material and labor within the original estimate to achieve project success. Project goals are to determine the fiber scope of work, develop construction drawings or coordinate with engineering vendors to create engineering drawings that adhere to Our client IT drawing standards, provide material and labor contractors to execute the work compliant with OSHA and Our client safety standards and most importantly complete as-build drawings for maintenance records. Coordination with Real Estate, Environmental, Transmission Engineering and Substation Engineering is necessary to ensure that all necessary Rail Road, Wetland permits etc. are obtained and that the proposed fiber design does not impede electrical operations. 



1. Identify material required for procurement. 

2. Procure material to include all fiber equipment but not electronics. 

3. Report material accrual and forecast reports twice monthly. 

4. Report accrual and forecast their hours to the appropriate PM's. 

5. Create or review drawings to ensure they meet our client drawing standards FMP-04.  

6. File for construction drawings on our client construction drive so that others in the I&O group are aware of allocated fibers and future plans of existing plant. 

7. Evaluate fiber capacity of existing fiber plant to determine if capacity is available. 

8. POC for PCS change process. 

9. Trouble shooting of existing fiber plant when issues are found and identify location. 

10. Identify dark fibers in existing plant for use on new rings. 

11. Escort testing/construction crews into substations. 

12. Familiar with working in and around the substation environment requiring notification to BPO, Corporate Security and STAR evaluations. 

13. Attend construction meetings-conference calls or in person if feasible. 

14. Attend engineering meetings-conference calls or in person if feasible. 

15. Submit accepted as-built for fiber maintenance use. 


Scope of Work 

The scope of the fiber engineering support / construction management support requires the following tasks: 

1. Project Administration 


1.1. Monthly project expense accrual reporting. 

2. Fiber Group Engineering Support 


2.1. Create or work with engineering vendors to create Fiber Group drawings (FA Table, Fiber Link, Fiber Logic, Fiber Diagrams, and Fiber Key Map) design review per Fiber Group standards. 

2.2. Identify and facilitate procurement of Fiber Group standard materials required 

for the project through Our client contract vendors with blanket contracts. 

2.3. Provide SPOC (Single Point of Contact) function for PCS (Production Change System) process. This includes filling out ticket, submitting, and tracking approvals and migrating to completion. 

2.4. Review HRE (High Risk Evolution) documentation provided by the construction contractor for work inside the substations and submit to Designated Authorities for approval. 

2.5. Prepare Scope of Work (SOW) for the Project Manager's Construction RFP. 

Technically evaluate bids for project manager. Project Manager is to award 

bid to successful contractor and process PO. 

2.6. Coordinate and notify BPO/Designated Authorities, ITOC, Our client IT and other 

Stakeholders prior to any fiber cutover. Provide field engineering support on-site during fiber cutover. 

2.7. Direct fiber testing contractors to troubleshoot existing fiber related to the scope of work. 

2.8. Escort testing/construction contractor crews into substations. Coordinate and notify BPO/Designated Authorities and Corporate Security for the contractor work at the substation. Conduct job briefings and STAR evaluations at job site. Audit testing/construction contractors' adherence to our client safety rules & practices. 

2.9. Attend necessary construction meetings-conference calls.

2.10. Attend weekly fiber department engineering status meetings-conference calls. 

2.11. Perform walk downs as needed to support project activities. 

2.12. Review field marked-ups/changes from construction contractor. Submit 

Accepted as-built record drawings. 


Additional Information

Lawrence E. Harmon
Business Development/Recruiter
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Hi-Tech Solutions, Inc. | Information Technology Consulting
Two Mid America Plaza, Suite 630 | Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Direct Phone: 630-575-3909 | 
www.htsconsulting.com
Lets connect on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/pub/lawrence-harmon/14/680/a9b/