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Fiber Science Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Optical Fiber Scientist

Somerset, NJ ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Optical Fiber Scientist Lightera has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, which goes back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone more ...

This is a disruptive, hands-on research role focused on tackling fundamental scientific and conceptual problems in fiber-optic communication and advanced fiber sensing. You will be responsible for ...

The Technical Manager,Fiber Lasers leads the development and execution of fiber laser technologies ... Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. * Define project scope ...

The Technical Manager, Fiber Lasers leads the development and execution of fiber laser technologies ... Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. * Define project scope ...

We are currently seeking an Optical Scientist to join Lightera Laboratories, our corporate R&D ... The ideal candidate will advance our high power fiber laser portfolio, requiring the ability to ...

We are currently seeking an Optical Scientist to join Lightera Laboratories, our corporate R&D ... The ideal candidate will advance our high power fiber laser portfolio, requiring the ability to ...

As a Data Science Advisor, you will apply advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI to deliver ... fiber optic internet service provider with speeds of at least 10Mbps download/5Mbps upload. For ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Somerset, NJ ยท On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

You will work alongside scientists, production, and quality assurance staff to increase the manufacturing readiness of new optical fiber products and fiber-based components. This role offers the ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Somerset, NJ ยท On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

You will work alongside scientists, production, and quality assurance staff to increase the manufacturing readiness of new optical fiber products and fiber-based components. This role offers the ...

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Fiber Science information

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How much do fiber science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber science in New York is $30.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.65 and $34.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fiber science?

Fiber science is the study of the physical, chemical, and engineering properties of fibers and their applications in textiles and other materials. It encompasses natural and synthetic fibers, their structure, processing, and performance in various end uses. Professionals in fiber science work to improve fiber materials for use in clothing, technical textiles, composites, and even medical devices. This field combines principles from chemistry, physics, engineering, and materials science to innovate and enhance fiber-based products.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in fiber science roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Fiber Science often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving textile technologies, ensuring materials meet strict performance and sustainability standards, and balancing innovative research with practical manufacturing constraints. To address these challenges, it is important to stay current through industry journals and workshops, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including engineers and designers, and maintain open communication with suppliers and manufacturers. Being proactive about continuing education and networking can also help Fiber Scientists adapt to new trends and regulatory requirements in the field.

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

To thrive as a Fiber Scientist, you need a strong background in materials science, chemistry, and textile engineering, often supported by a relevant degree such as a B.S. or M.S. in Fiber Science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical techniques like spectroscopy, and textile testing systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on research and development projects. These skills are crucial for developing innovative fiber materials, ensuring product quality, and advancing textile technologies.

What can you do with a degree in fiber science?

A degree in fiber science prepares individuals for careers in textile development, quality assurance, product design, and research related to fibers and fabrics. Graduates can work in manufacturing, research laboratories, or quality control, often utilizing skills in material analysis, testing, and industry standards. The field may also require knowledge of textile machinery and certifications in safety or quality management.

What is the difference between Fiber Science vs Textile Engineering?

AspectFiber ScienceTextile Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Fiber Science, Materials Science, or related fieldsBachelor's in Textile Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fiber production facilities, quality controlManufacturing plants, design studios, production lines
Industry UsageFiber development, quality testing, product innovationTextile manufacturing, machinery design, process optimization

Fiber Science focuses on the study and development of fibers, including their properties and applications, often involving research and quality testing. Textile Engineering emphasizes the design, production, and manufacturing processes of textiles and fabrics. While both roles overlap in materials and industry settings, Fiber Science leans more toward research and development, whereas Textile Engineering centers on production and process engineering.

What job categories do people searching Fiber Science jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Fiber Science jobs in New York are:
Infographic showing various Fiber Science job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,255 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Optical Fiber Scientist

Lightera

Somerset, NJ โ€ข On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Optical Fiber Scientist

Lightera has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, which goes back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone more than a century ago. We have a proven track record of being first in the industry with application-specific optical fibers, connectors, cables, amplifiers and lasers, sensors and more. Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and delivering the best optical fibers, cables, and devices for our customers, with exceptional service that creates value for our shareholders, customers and employees. To continue shaping the future of communications we apply the best minds to the challenges our customers will continually face.

We are currently seeking an Optical Fiber Scientist to join our division located in Somerset, NJ.

The Optical Fiber Scientist position will test and design the transmission behavior and performance of fiber-based technology, including optical fiber amplifiers and next generation transmission fibers. The position will likely include interfacing with customers, applications engineering, and development of fiber and fiber-based devices.

Essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Conduct innovative research in optical fiber technology, particularly in the area of data transmission, fiber amplification and distributed sensing.
  • Disseminate information at technical conferences and through direct communication with key customers.
  • Conceive, design and assemble transmission system testing related to the performance of fiber products
  • Contribute to external publications
  • Generate intellectual property
  • Work with the optical fiber fabrication team to provide input on improved fiber designs
  • Interface with teams developing fiber related components, including fiber sensors, telecommunications devices, and fiber amplifiers
  • Assist in establishing and executing an R&D program to support Lightera manufacturing sites, including synthesis of a long-term technology roadmap
  • Contribute to and eventually lead the development of new products
  • Provide technical support and applications engineering to marketing and sales teams and assist in promoting Lightera expertise and understanding new business opportunities
  • Work with customers to demonstrate improved optical fiber products.
  • Perform other related duties as required by management

Key qualifications include:

  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • Expertise in waveguide photonics, optical fiber amplifiers, transmission theory, systems architecture, and related disciplines
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, preferably as demonstrated by past publications or presentations
  • Demonstrated laboratory experience working with optical components and optical fibers
  • Lab automation, computer skills and proficiency with AI tools
  • Ability to understand and perform optical simulations
  • Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and work effectively with minimal supervision
  • Proficient with MS Office Word and Excel
  • Maintain discretion when working with confidential and proprietary information
  • Strict adherence to Company safety policies and procedures
  • Conform to all aspects of Lightera's "Standards of Conduct" document

Working at Lightera means having the opportunity to realize ideas, experience innovation and discover new solutions for the future. In addition to our dynamic work environment, we offer competitive salaries and generous benefits programs, including medical, dental, tuition reimbursement and a matching 401(k) plan.

Employees are expected to serve as role models for safe work practices and behaviors. This includes following established health and safety policies and procedures, maintaining a clean, organized work area, wearing, and properly storing all personal protective equipment (PPE), and actively engaging as a safety conscious worker with personal safety and wellness as a priority.

If you'd like to be part of an energetic, world leader in optic fiber solutions, please apply online at http://www.lightera.com/careers. Submissions must include salary information.

Note: Only those candidates selected for the interview process will be contacted.

Lightera, a Georgia based global company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.