ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Ftth Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ideatek

Fiber Design Engineer

Buhler, KS · On-site

... Fiber Design Engineer to help support and maintain the integrity of our growing fiber plant. In ... Experience supporting large-scale FTTH deployments * Experience working on state-funded or ...

IdeaTek

Fiber Design Engineer

Buhler, KS · On-site

... Fiber Design Engineer to help support and maintain the integrity of our growing fiber plant. In ... Experience supporting large-scale FTTH deployments * Experience working on state-funded or ...

Lumos

OR · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

If you're an experienced FTTH design & construction engineering professional who's excited for a fast-paced experience, ready to help us grow, and ready to recommend process changes that ensure we're ...

Utilities One

OSP Engineer III

Voorhees, NJ · On-site +1

Lead the planning, design, and optimization of large-scale FTTH/FTTP fiber optic networks, ensuring compliance with client requirements, permitting constraints, budget goals, and engineering best ...

Utilities One

OSP Engineer III

Voorhees, NJ · On-site +1

Lead the planning, design, and optimization of large-scale FTTH/FTTP fiber optic networks, ensuring compliance with client requirements, permitting constraints, budget goals, and engineering best ...

Utilities One

OSP Engineer III

Voorhees, NJ · On-site +1

Lead the planning, design, and optimization of large-scale FTTH/FTTP fiber optic networks, ensuring compliance with client requirements, permitting constraints, budget goals, and engineering best ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFtth Design Engineer JobsFreelance Ftth Design Engineer Jobs

Freelance Ftth Design Engineer information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance ftth design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance ftth design engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior FTTH (Fiber to the Home) Design Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in fiber optic network design, and certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually. These roles often involve managing large projects, working with advanced network planning tools, and may require working in high-demand markets or for large telecommunications companies.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance FTTH Design Engineers when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance FTTH Design Engineers often juggle projects for several clients at once, which can present challenges such as managing conflicting deadlines, adapting to different technical standards, and ensuring consistent communication across diverse teams. Additionally, each client may use unique design tools or require compliance with specific local regulations, which demands flexibility and continual learning. Effective time management, clear documentation, and proactive client updates are essential strategies for overcoming these challenges and maintaining high-quality project delivery.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some highly specialized or executive-level engineers, such as senior telecommunications or network infrastructure engineers with extensive experience and certifications, can earn this level of income. These roles often require advanced skills, leadership responsibilities, and work in high-demand industries or companies.

What is the difference between Freelance Ftth Design Engineer vs FTTH Network Designer?

AspectFreelance Ftth Design EngineerFTTH Network Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in fiber opticsEngineering degree, certifications in fiber optics
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, remote or on-siteCompany-based, often on-site or in-office
Industry UsageFreelance projects across multiple clientsEmployed by telecom companies or contractors
Job FocusDesigning fiber optic networks for FTTHPlanning and designing fiber optic infrastructure

The Freelance Ftth Design Engineer and FTTH Network Designer roles both involve designing fiber optic networks, requiring similar certifications and skills. The main difference lies in employment type: freelancers work independently on various projects, while FTTH Network Designers are typically employed by companies. Both roles are essential in the telecom industry for deploying fiber optic infrastructure efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance FTTH Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance FTTH Design Engineer, you need a solid background in fiber optic network design, telecommunications engineering, and relevant technical education or certifications. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, GIS tools), optical network simulation tools, and knowledge of relevant standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work independently with clients set top professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate, efficient FTTH deployments that meet client requirements and industry standards in a competitive freelance market.

Can a network engineer do freelancing?

Yes, network engineers can work as freelancers by offering services such as network design, installation, and troubleshooting on a project basis. Freelance network engineers often need relevant certifications, strong technical skills, and familiarity with tools like Cisco or Juniper equipment to succeed independently.

What are Freelance FTTH Design Engineers?

Freelance FTTH (Fiber to the Home) Design Engineers are independent professionals who specialize in designing and planning fiber optic networks that deliver high-speed internet directly to residences. They work with telecom companies, contractors, and internet service providers to create detailed layouts, conduct site surveys, and ensure designs meet industry standards and local regulations. Unlike full-time employees, freelance FTTH design engineers typically work on a project basis, offering flexibility and specialized expertise for specific assignments. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical drawings, coordinating with other engineers, and providing support during the implementation phase.

How much do design engineers charge per hour?

Freelance FTTH Design Engineers typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. Rates can vary based on geographic location and the specific skills required for fiber optic network design and planning.
More about Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Ftth Design Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ftth Design Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Ftth Design Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Ftth Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Ftth Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, and 90% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
OSP Design Engineer I / II / III

OSP Design Engineer I / II / III

Utilities One

Voorhees, NJ • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

OSP Design Engineer I / II / III
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: United States
Reporting To: Jon Wilburn
Description
At Utilities One, we are driven by innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to building the future of critical infrastructure. As a trusted turnkey solutions provider across telecom, power, water, renewable energy, and data center sectors, we deliver high-quality services that connect and empower communities. In addition to our core operations, we offer specialized consulting services that help our clients design, optimize, and execute complex infrastructure projects with confidence and precision. We believe our greatest strength is our people - a team of dedicated professionals who bring expertise, collaboration, and integrity to everything they do. Join us and become part of a growing organization where your contributions make a meaningful impact.
We're seeking an experienced and motivated OSP Design Engineer to lead critical fiber design projects and support our growing engineering team. This role involves taking ownership of complex outside plant fiber network designs from planning through completion, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the highest standards of design quality and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the planning, design, and optimization of large-scale FTTH/FTTP fiber optic networks, ensuring compliance with client requirements, permitting constraints, budget goals, and engineering best practices;
  • Oversee and review High Level Designs (HLDs) and Low-Level Designs (LLDs), providing technical guidance and approvals for route proposals, splice point placement, and network architecture;
  • Manage advanced GIS and CAD workflows including data validation, integration, and QA/QC across multiple platforms such as ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Katapult, and Google Earth;
  • Supervise and mentor junior design engineers, ensuring quality control, adherence to standards, and skill development across the OSP engineering team;
  • Coordinate across departments and stakeholders (survey, permitting, GIS, construction, and project management) to lead technical discussions, remove project blockers, and ensure alignment from design through construction;
  • Analyze and resolve complex field conflicts and design issues discovered during aerial and underground surveys, proposing cost-effective and compliant alternatives;
  • Ensure full compliance with NESC/NEC codes, state and local regulations, and client-specific design standards, proactively managing risk and constructability concerns;
  • Serve as a subject matter expert in fiber optic network design, contributing to the continuous improvement of engineering standards, templates, and best practices;
  • Lead technical design reviews, audits, and sign-offs, ensuring consistency, constructability, and long-term scalability of the network infrastructure.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • 2-5 years of experience in OSP fiber network engineering and design;
  • Proven ability to lead complex design projects across multiple markets or utility types;
  • Deep knowledge of FTTH, centralized and distributed split architecture, and hybrid tap models;
  • Advanced proficiency with ESRI, ArcGIS, AutoCAD, IQGeo, Vetro, 3-GIS, Katapult, or similar engineering software;
  • Strong understanding of permitting workflows, jurisdictional design standards, and constructability best practices;
  • Excellent documentation, organizational, and project tracking skills;
  • Effective leadership, mentoring, and communication skills in remote or hybrid team environments;
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, GIS, Telecommunications, or related field preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience designing for major carriers such as AT&T, Lumen, Verizon, or Frontier;
  • Familiarity with pole loading analysis, easement research, and joint-use coordination;
  • Experience supporting BEAD, RDOF, or other grant-funded broadband initiatives;
  • Active Professional Engineer (PE) license (a plus, not required).

Benefits
  • Competitive weekly pay and compensation package;
  • Health Insurance plans (health, dental, vision);
  • Whole Life Insurance;
  • 401k Plan;
  • PTO/Paid Holidays;
  • Long-term, career-track employment with growth opportunities into technical or leadership roles .

Apply