1

Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

... Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

... Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and ... Ability or interest in building fiber lasers. Ability to design and execute experiments validating ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Lead Fiber Splicer

Ashburn, VA

$25.50 - $30.50/hr

... our certified engineers, IT consultants, and technicians deliver customized network and ... Install and terminate copper and fiber optic cabling for various applications like data networks ...

Lead Fiber Splicer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$25.50 - $30.50/hr

... our certified engineers, IT consultants, and technicians deliver customized network and ... Install and terminate copper and fiber optic cabling for various applications like data networks ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fiber Optics Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do fiber optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fiber optics engineer in Washington is $162,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $189,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fiber optics engineer?

A Fiber Optics Engineer designs, installs, and maintains fiber optic communication systems. They work with high-speed data transmission networks, ensuring efficient signal transmission through optical fibers. Their responsibilities include testing fiber connections, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing network performance. They may collaborate with other engineers to expand fiber networks and ensure reliability. This role is essential for telecommunications, internet services, and data infrastructure.

How much do fiber optics engineers make?

Fiber optics engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like telecommunications and data centers.

Are fiber optics engineers in demand?

Fiber optics engineers are in high demand due to the expanding need for high-speed internet, telecommunications, and data transmission infrastructure. They often require specialized skills in optical systems, network design, and certifications, and employment opportunities are growing in telecommunications, technology, and infrastructure sectors.

How much do fiber optics engineers get paid?

Fiber optics engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like telecommunications and networking.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a fiber optics engineer?

Fiber Optics Engineers typically spend their days designing fiber optic network layouts, conducting site surveys, and overseeing the installation and testing of fiber cables. Tasks often include troubleshooting signal issues, preparing technical documentation, and using specialized equipment to certify network performance. You’ll regularly collaborate with project managers, field technicians, and network architects to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet quality standards. This hands-on and collaborative environment provides a mix of technical problem-solving and teamwork, making each day varied and engaging.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the fiber optics engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fiber Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, telecommunications, and network design, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like OTDRs (Optical Time Domain Reflectometers), splicing machines, AutoCAD, and industry certifications such as FOA or CFOT is highly beneficial. Effective problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set candidates apart in this position. These capabilities are essential for designing, maintaining, and optimizing high-performing fiber optic networks while coordinating with cross-functional teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Fiber Optics Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Fiber Optics Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Fiber Optics Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,653 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Saic

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$200 - $240/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Description

SAIC has an opening for an Electrical Engineer with a strong background in Optical Engineering, Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

Key Responsibilities
  • Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics:
    • Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices
    • Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems and components to ensure optimal performance
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical solutions into broader telecommunications frameworks
  • Telecommunications:
    • Develop and implement telecommunications systems and solutions, focusing on enhancing network efficiency and reliability
    • Conduct performance evaluations and troubleshooting of telecommunications systems
    • Stay updated on emerging telecommunications technologies and integrate relevant advancements into ongoing projects
  • Lab Environment:
    • Participate actively in lab-based projects, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of experimental and testing equipment
    • Conduct experiments and tests to validate the performance and reliability of optical and telecommunications systems
    • Analyze and document results, providing detailed reports and recommendations for improvements
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field
  • Must currently hold a TS/SCI and Poly clearance
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant technical experience
  • Proven experience in optical engineering, fiber optics, and telecommunications
  • Hands‑on experience working in a lab environment, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of testing equipment
  • Experience with design, development, and testing of optical components and telecommunications systems
Preferred
  • Experience with LTEs and other advanced telecommunications technologies
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for telecommunications and optical engineering

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom