Fiber Optic Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $3B in revenue, and employ approximately 12,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

What We Offer:

• A hybrid in office schedule for qualifying employees
• Flexible time off policy
• 401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
• Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
• Opportunities for career advancement with an industry leading company!

 Position Summary:

The FIBER OPTIC Process Technician supports R&D engineers and the R&D Lab Manager by setting up, running, and improving prototype builds, process trials, tooling evaluations, and inside plant connector termination activities.

This role helps translate engineering direction into hands-on lab execution by supporting process development, sample builds, equipment setup, troubleshooting, documentation, and continuous improvement of lab practices.

 Responsibilities:

• Set up and support prototype builds, process trials, tooling evaluations, automation activities, and advanced termination process development work.
• Operate fiber optic termination equipment, fiber splicers, cable prep tools, lab equipment, and process development systems in accordance with work instructions, safety requirements, and engineering direction.
• Build, prepare, inspect, and document samples used for engineering evaluation, design verification, qualification testing, and process development.
• Partner with R&D engineers to troubleshoot process issues, evaluate process performance, and identify opportunities to improve repeatability, throughput, and quality.
• Collect and record process data, build observations, equipment settings, issues, and improvement ideas in a clear and timely manner.
• Assist with fixture setup, equipment changeovers, material preparation, and lab readiness for current and upcoming development work.
• Support creation and improvement of work instructions, process documentation, technician standard work, and training materials.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab environment and follow AFL environmental, health, and safety policies.
• Communicate barriers, material needs, equipment issues, and process concerns to the R&D Lab Manager or engineering team.
• Perform other fiber optic lab and process development duties as requested, directed, or assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certificate or associate degree in a related field preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing, process support, technical lab, automation, assembly, or engineering technician work preferred. Fiber termination, splicing, or test experience highly valued.
• Hands-on experience with tools, fixtures, equipment setup, mechanical assembly, process trials, or prototype builds.
• Ability to follow work instructions, safety procedures, engineering direction, and technical documentation.
• Basic understanding of process control, quality expectations, measurement practices, and documentation requirements.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work closely with engineers, technicians, and lab leadership.
• Fiber optic test, connector termination, cable assembly (electrical or fiber) build, fiber splicing, assembly automation, Data Center installation or product development lab experience preferred.

Personal Qualities:

• Hands-on and mechanically inclined with strong attention to detail.
• Safety-focused and quality-minded with pride in clean and consistent execution.
• Problem-solver who can identify issues, ask good questions, and support practical improvements.
• Collaborative team player who works well with engineers and technicians.
• Flexible and willing to learn new tools, processes, technologies, and lab methods.

Working Conditions:

• Lab and office environment with regular interaction with engineers, technicians, manufacturing, and testing personnel.
• Hands-on work may involve tools, fixtures, test equipment, prototype materials, and process development equipment.
• May require standing, walking, lifting light materials, and supporting lab activities for portions of the workday.
• Schedule flexibility may be required based on project timing, test needs, equipment availability, or business priorities.
• Domestic and International travel to AFL development labs, manufacturing sites, suppliers, or partners may be required on occasion.