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Freelance Optical Network Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marencor

Optical Network Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$110/hr

Role: Optical Network Engineer Location: Fremont, CA Salary: $110-120k Role Description: Deployment Engineer working on Backbone Network capacity deployment. This role will be focused on network ...

KCI Telecommunications

Optical Engineer

$132K - $170K/yr

Optical Network Engineer III W2 Only - No Sponsorship Offered Job Summary We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Optical Network Engineer III to join our team. This role is responsible for ...

Collabera LLC

Optical Network Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$66 - $68/hr

Optical DWDM Expertise: Deep technical understanding and hands-on experience with the rollout of large DWDM networks, optical network technologies, and optical planning/modeling tools. Candidates ...

Apex Systems

Optical Network Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

Job#: 3043766 Optical Network Engineer III Location: Remote based in Charlotte, NC Role Overview We are seeking an Optical Network Engineer with a strong background in the telecommunications industry.

OpenAI

Optical Network Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$342K - $445K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Optical Network Engineer to lead Laser related work within our optical interconnect efforts for large-scale compute systems. The role also requires broad, hands-on ...

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do We're looking for a DWDM Optical Network Engineer to be a key part of a highly visible and business-critical technology team at Viasat. Do you love working in a cutting-edge, fast ...

Oracle

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables ...

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do We're looking for a DWDM Optical Network Engineer to be a key part of a highly visible and business-critical technology team at Viasat. Do you love working in a cutting-edge, fast ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Reston, VA

$135K/yr

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Seattle, WA

$135K/yr

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Denver, CO

$135K/yr

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

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Freelance Optical Network Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do freelance optical network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance optical network engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance optical network engineer?

A Freelance Optical Network Engineer is a specialized professional who designs, implements, and maintains optical communication networks on a contract or project basis, rather than as a full-time employee. They work with technologies such as fiber optics, DWDM, and network hardware to ensure high-speed data transmission. Their clients may include telecom companies, internet service providers, or large enterprises with complex network needs. Freelance engineers often manage multiple projects, providing flexibility and expertise tailored to specific client requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance optical network engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Optical Network Engineer, you need a deep understanding of fiber optic networking, network design, and troubleshooting, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as OTDRs, DWDM systems, and certifications like Cisco CCNP or Juniper JNCIP-Optical are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and self-management skills distinguish top professionals in this freelance role. These skills ensure reliable network performance, successful project delivery, and client satisfaction in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

How do freelance optical network engineers typically collaborate with client teams during projects?

Freelance Optical Network Engineers often work closely with client IT and network operations teams to understand project requirements, design solutions, and oversee implementation. Communication is typically managed through regular virtual meetings, status reports, and collaborative documentation tools. While freelancers may work remotely, they are expected to be responsive and proactive in addressing technical issues, integrating feedback from stakeholders, and ensuring seamless handoffs. Building strong professional relationships and maintaining clear communication is essential for successful project delivery and future opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Optical Network Engineer vs Optical Network Technician?

AspectFreelance Optical Network EngineerOptical Network Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNA, Fiber Optic certifications), technical degreeTechnical certifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentProject-based, client sites, remote consultingFieldwork, installation sites, maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageIndependent contractors, consulting firms, telecom companiesTelecom providers, network service companies
Search & Comparison IntentDesign, planning, troubleshooting of optical networksInstallation, repair, maintenance of optical equipment

The main difference is that Freelance Optical Network Engineers focus on designing and troubleshooting optical networks on a project basis, often working remotely or as consultants. Optical Network Technicians primarily handle installation, maintenance, and repair tasks on-site. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the engineer's role is more strategic and design-oriented, while technicians focus on operational tasks.

More about Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Optical Network Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Network Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Optical Network Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs are:

Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Optical Network Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Optical Network Engineer

Marencor

Fremont, CA • On-site

$110/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Role: Optical Network Engineer

Location: Fremont, CA

Salary: $110-120k

Role Description:

Deployment Engineer working on Backbone Network capacity deployment. This role will be focused
on network deployment (IP, optical), and network operations (decommissioning, retrofitting,
capacity upgrades, migrations, etc.) We are looking for individuals with experience in
routing/switching, deployment, optical, and leadership experience. This is a fast-paced
environment, and we are looking for someone who is organized, can multi-task and enjoys working
in a team environment.
 

Responsibilities:

 Configuration, build, roll-out and testing of new DWDM line systems deployments,

calibration, verification, BERT, etc.

 Deployment and commissioning of Optical devices such as Ciena and Infinera in new PoPs

and Datacenter builds.

 Develop & update documentation, work cross functionally to develop and enhance network

design & production workflows.

 Analyze data to diagnose and identify root causes to network and tooling issues.

 Analyze and improve e