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Freelance Optical Network Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$128.20K - $165.90K/yr

Optical Network Engineer Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming phenomenal products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication ...

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

Fort Worth, TX

$123.50K - $159.90K/yr

Description Apple is looking for an Optical Network Engineer to join their Global Network Services (GNS) team. The ideal candidate to fill the position will work in a dynamic team environment ...

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$152K - $196.80K/yr

Description Apple is looking for an Optical Network Engineer to join their Global Network Services (GNS) team. The ideal candidate to fill the position will work in a dynamic team environment ...

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$123.60K - $160.10K/yr

Apple is looking for an Optical Network Engineer to join their Global Network Services (GNS) team. The ideal candidate to fill the position will work in a dynamic team environment, leading and ...

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 ...

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$154.60K - $232.90K/yr

Description Apple is looking for an Optical Network Engineer to join their Global Network Services (GNS) team. The ideal candidate to fill the position will work in a dynamic team environment ...

Apple

Optical Network Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$154.60K - $232.90K/yr

Description Apple is looking for an Optical Network Engineer to join their Global Network Services (GNS) team. The ideal candidate to fill the position will work in a dynamic team environment ...

1872 Consulting

Optical Network Engineer

Farmington, NY · On-site

Network Engineer, Optical Networks Woodbury, NY - Hybrid onsite 3 days per week following initial 90-day 100% onsite probationary period Position Summary: The ideal candidate will collaborate within ...

Eliassen Group

Optical Network Engineer

Almont, CO · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Remote Our client seeks an Optical Network Engineer to design, deploy, and maintain large-scale optical transport infrastructure. The role will build, configure, and troubleshoot platforms such as ...

E-Solutions

Optical Network Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$141.20K - $182.80K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity to join our network infrastructure teams as an Optical Network Deployment Engineer working on Backbone Network capacity deployment. This role will be focused on ...

3M Consultancy

Optical Network Engineer

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Network Solutions Engineer (Optical) Location: Vandenberg AFB, CA. You will be responsible for generation, co-ordination, and execution of internal and carrier test plans for the objective of ...

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 ...

Rootshell Inc

Network Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Optical Network Engineer Duties: Design and build optical network engineering lab HW and SW (configurations for proof of concept (POC) and certification of multi-vendor high capacity optical DWDM ...

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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 May 28, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Optical Network Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

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Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs near you
Optical Network Engineer

Optical Network Engineer

CompQsoft, Inc.

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$143.70K - $186K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description

Title: Optical Network Engineer 

Location: Fort Meade, MD ( Hybrid) 

Clearance required:  Secret Clearance

Certification required by project: IAT Level 2 

Requirements

COMPQSOFT Inc. is seeking an Optical Network Engineer to augment our DISA test team at Fort Meade, MD. The candidate will function as a subject matter expert (SME) in testing existing and new optical network equipment for the DOD's transport network. The candidate will work developing test cases, test reports and implementation plan in evaluating engineering architectures, new technologies and approaches to unique engineering problems. Candidate will also function as a Tier III Optical engineer assisting Tier II engineers and vendors to provide solutions to resolve real world Optical network issues.

Responsibilities/Duties/Tasks:

Optical testing:

- Analyze new/old optical transport equipment functionality and interoperability amongst various transport networks (Optical Transport Networks (OTN), Synchronous Optical Network (SONET), Ethernet) and cryptographic equipment.

- Operate various Bit Error Rate Test (BERT) test equipment in support of equipment testing.

- Develop test cases, test reports and implementation plans based on equipment testing.

- Perform interoperability testing between different vendors OTN equipment.

- Perform interoperability testing between edge devices and OTN equipment.

- Determine and provide Recommendations with supporting documentation for new equipment to be deployed /not deployed in the operational network.

- Brief the group leads on project status.

Tier III Support: 

- Work with DISA Tier II optical engineers to identify, track, and develop solutions to complex network problems.

- Mock-up equipment problems in the Test Lab to reproduce the problem and work toward a solution.

Engineering support:

- Analyze new Optical transport equipment. 

- Determine/identify functional capabilities of new equipment.

- Provide SME support in identifying equipment capabilities.

Required Experience/Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree is preferred

- Security+ certification or equivalent 8570 IAT II certification.(Should be able to obtain within 3 months from joining)

- 5 + years of Optical systems engineering experience configuring, testing, designing, implementing, or troubleshooting telecommunication networks.

- Strong written and verbal communication skills are required to collaborate test plans and reports with Government and equipment vendors.

- Able to work with strict deadlines.

- Knowledge and experience with Microsoft office suite to include Word, Excel, and Visio technical drawing program.

- Ability to work along with no or little assistance to complete equipment testing.

- Ability to work in a group to achieve the common goal to resolve complex network issues.

- Extensive knowledge of Dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) technologies.

- Experience with SONET, DWDM, Time-division multiplexing (TDM) and Ethernet technologies.

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