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Fiber Optic Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3M

Optical Research Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Optical Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to ... Experience interpreting industry standards, product qualification testing, fiber optic, and ...

3M

Optical Research Engineer

Austin, TX

$124K - $151K/yr

Optical Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to ... Experience interpreting industry standards, product qualification testing, fiber optic, and ...

Bluepeak

Fiber Optic Design Engineer

$49K - $64K/yr

The Fiber Optic Design Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, engineering, and ... Research and evaluate emerging technologies, design methods, and products that can improve network ...

Insight Global

Fiber Optic Technician

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

Collaborate with engineering, construction crews, and contractors to ensure project completion * Follow all safety standards, procedures, and telecom industry best practices [Fiber Optics JD ...

Nexans

Fiber Optic Technician

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

Collaborate with production, engineering, and quality teams to resolve technical challenges Expected Competencies and Qualifications * Strong knowledge of fiber optic principles including splicing ...

Avacend Inc

Fiber Splicer/Fiber Optic Splicer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$24.75 - $29.25/hr

... engineering teams, third-party fiber providers, and internal deployment teams to maintain optimal ... optical loss testing, OTDR analysis, insertion loss measurements, reflectance tests, and return ...

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Fiber Optic Research Engineer information

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$23

$43

$65

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber optic research 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fiber Optic Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fiber Optic Research Engineer, you need a strong background in optical physics, fiber optic communication, and engineering principles, usually supported by an advanced degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical simulation software, signal analysis tools, and hands-on experience with fiber optic testing equipment are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in both independent and collaborative research projects. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring precision, and advancing technology in the rapidly evolving field of fiber optics.

What is the difference between Fiber Optic Research Engineer vs Optical Communications Engineer?

AspectFiber Optic Research EngineerOptical Communications Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsTelecom companies, network providers, system integration firms
Industry UsageDeveloping new fiber optic technologies and materialsDesigning and optimizing optical communication systems

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in optical fields, Fiber Optic Research Engineers focus on developing new fiber technologies in research settings, whereas Optical Communications Engineers apply these technologies to design and improve communication systems in industry.

What does a Fiber Optic Research Engineer do?

A Fiber Optic Research Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and improving fiber optic technologies used for high-speed data transmission. They conduct experiments, analyze performance, and work on advanced optical systems for telecommunications, sensing, and networking applications. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers and researchers to create innovative solutions and keep fiber optic systems efficient and reliable. Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in fiber optics is also a key part of the role.

What are some typical projects a Fiber Optic Research Engineer might work on within a cross-functional team?

As a Fiber Optic Research Engineer, you might work on projects such as developing new fiber optic sensor technologies, improving data transmission speeds, or enhancing network reliability. These projects often require close collaboration with electrical engineers, software developers, and product managers to translate research findings into practical applications. You'll likely participate in regular team meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot technical challenges, and share experimental results. This collaborative environment supports innovation and ensures that research aligns with broader company goals.
More about Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fiber Optic Research Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs are:
Fiber Optic Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fiber Optic Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,495 per year, or $43 per hour.
Optical Research Engineer

Optical Research Engineer

3M

Austin, TX • On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

3M rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 234 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description:
Optical Research Engineer
Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World
Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally important you know that the company that you choose to work at, and its leaders, will support and guide you. With a wide variety of people, global locations, technologies and products, 3M is a place where you can collaborate with other curious, creative 3Mers.
This position provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career.
The Impact You'll Make in this Role
As a(n) Optical Research Engineer you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative people around the world. Here, you will make an impact by:
  • Being part of a team of optical scientists supporting fiber optic interconnect product development at 3M.
  • Be part of an exciting new project for 3M's Interconnect Portfolio
  • Supervising, training, and guiding a small team of technicians to complete requested tests.
  • Establishing intellectual property for 3M, analyzing competitor technology and developing I.P. strategies.
  • Establishing test plans and methods, preparing samples, conducting
    tests, analyzing data, and completing test reports.
  • Collaborating with local and division manufacturing teams on division/value stream level projects focused on improving manufacturing operations
  • Managing laboratory facilities and equipment including repairs, upgrades, and procurement of new test equipment.
  • Interfacing with a global team and contributing to new product development and support of existing platforms
  • Ensuring technical claims in 3M published literature are accurate and supported by test data

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start)
  • Three (3) years of optical design experience in a private, public, government or military environment

Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:
  • Master's degree in optical science or engineering, mechanical engineering, or physics from an accredited institution
  • Five (5) years of optical design experience in a private, public, government or military environment
  • Five (5) years of experience working in the area of fiber optics for communications system
  • Familiarity with data center systems architecture and networking
  • Bachelor's degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start) in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.
  • Ten (10) years of previous technical experience with demonstrated strength in engineering/technical skills in a private, public, government or military environment
  • Experience and knowledge with a variety of laboratory test equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude with designing and building fixtures.
  • Experience interpreting industry standards, product qualification testing, fiber optic, and electrical components.
  • Experience providing work direction to others.
  • Communication skills (oral, written and presentation).

Work location:
  • Work location: This role follows an on-site working model, requiring the employee to work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN.
  • Travel: May include up to 10% domestic/international
  • Relocation: May be authorized

Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
Supporting Your Well-being
3M offers many programs to help you live your best life - both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.
Chat with Max
For assistance with searching through our current job openings or for more information about all things 3M, visit Max, our virtual recruiting assistant on 3M.com/careers.
Applicable to US Applicants Only:The expected compensation range for this position is $124,127 - $151,710, which includes base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific compensation offered to a candidate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience. In addition, this position may be eligible for a range of benefits (e.g., Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Accounts, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences and Retirement Benefits, etc.). Additional information is available at: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/.
All US-based 3M full time employees will need to sign an employee agreement as a condition of employment with 3M. This agreement lays out key terms on using 3M Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also has provisions discussing conflicts of interest and how inventions are assigned. Employees that are Job Grade 7 or equivalent and above may also have obligations to not compete against 3M or solicit its employees or customers, both during their employment, and for a period after they leave 3M.
Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to the world's problems at www.3M.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @3M.
Responsibilities of this position include that corporate policies, procedures and security standards are complied with while performing assigned duties.
Safety is a core value at 3M. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
Pay & Benefits Overview: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/
3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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