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Fiber Optic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data ... About the Role You'll design new fiber optic products and improve existing ones, moving from ...

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... optic principles, network design, and industry-standard construction practices. · Hands-on ... Our technicians and engineers operate with meticulous attention to detail, strict quality standards ...

... fiber optic field, including 3+ years in FTTH / FTTA / OSP cabling and facility engineering/architectural design. * Excellent knowledge of single-mode/multi-mode fibers, transceivers, design ...

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Fiber Optic Design Engineer information

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$23

$43

$65

How much do fiber optic design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber optic 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 is the difference between Fiber Optic Design Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectFiber Optic Design EngineerFiber Optic Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic SpecialistHigh school diploma or technical training, certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering teams, project planningField installation, testing, troubleshooting
Industry UsageDesigning fiber optic networks, planning infrastructureInstalling and maintaining fiber optic systems

While both roles work with fiber optics, the Fiber Optic Design Engineer focuses on planning and designing networks, whereas the Fiber Optic Technician handles installation and maintenance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

What does a fiber optic design engineer do?

A Fiber Optic Design Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and implementing fiber optic networks used for telecommunications, data transmission, and internet infrastructure. This role involves creating detailed network layouts, selecting appropriate fiber optic cables and equipment, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations. Fiber Optic Design Engineers also collaborate with construction teams, conduct site surveys, and troubleshoot network issues to optimize performance. Their expertise ensures reliable, high-speed connectivity for homes, businesses, and service providers.

What are some typical challenges faced by fiber optic design engineers when working on large-scale network projects?

Fiber Optic Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and managing tight project timelines. They must also navigate issues related to permitting, physical obstacles in the field, and integrating new designs with existing infrastructure. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role frequently involves collaborating with construction teams, project managers, and local authorities to deliver robust and cost-effective solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fiber optic design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fiber Optic Design Engineer, you need a strong background in telecommunications engineering, fiber optic network design, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with GIS software, AutoCAD, fiber optic testing tools, and industry standards such as ITU-T or ANSI/TIA is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex designs clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders are important soft skills. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure efficient, reliable, and scalable fiber optic network solutions that meet client and industry requirements.
More about Fiber Optic Design Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Fiber Optic Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Fiber Optic Design Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Fiber Optic Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fiber Optic Design Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Fiber Optic Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% 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.

Fiber Optic Splicers

Zero db Communications LLC

Spokane, WA • On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Join the Team That’s Building the Future of Fiber!


Zero dB Communications (ZdB) is one of the West Coast’s fastest-growing full-turnkey fiber optic contractors. Founded in 2011 and led by Zach Kuhlmann, we’ve built a reputation for delivering high-quality design, engineering, construction, splicing, and testing across the western United States. With 90+ years of combined OSP experience, our team knows how to build networks that perform today and stand strong tomorrow.


From FTTH and Metro-E to long-haul P2P, data center builds, and 24/7 emergency response, we take on the industry’s toughest projects—and we do them right. If you want to join a team known for precision, reliability, and tackling complex fiber challenges, ZdB is where you belong.


What’s in it for you?

  • Weekly pay!
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • 6 Paid Holidays
  • Short-Term Disability & Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Opportunity to gain valuable working skills

Voluntary Benefits offered:

  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Medical (including an HSA)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Accident & Critical Illness Insurance
Requirements:


· Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team

· 1+ year of fiber optic field experience preferred

· Valid driver’s license meeting company safety standards (CDL preferred)

· General knowledge of residential/commercial construction; lead/foreman experience a plus

· Strong computer skills (Microsoft applications)· Understanding of technology-based services, products, and networking

· Ability to meet physical demands: climb ladders, work in confined spaces/heights, lift 75 lbs., squat, kneel, bend, crawl, and stand for long periods

· Comfortable working outdoors in all weather· Self-starter with a positive attitude


Schedule:

  • Required to work a minimum of 40 hours per week, most schedules follow a M-F pattern.
  • This is a night time shift, although day times may be necessary at times depending on operational needs.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed in addition to travel as needed.
  • Out of state travel is required.

Employment is contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment screen, to include a drug test and an acceptable driving record. This is a safety sensitive position.