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Freelance Optical Network Engineer Jobs in Washington

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 ...

Zayo Group, LLC

Network Engineer II - Optical

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$61K - $94K/yr

Our Network Engineer II - Optical is responsible for effectively communicating with internal order management personnel and various internal teams on the progress of the capacity fulfillment. Our ...

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Freelance Optical Network Engineer information

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.

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

The most popular types of Optical Network Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Freelance Optical Network Engineer job openings:

Freelance Optical Network Engineer jobs near you

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Meta

Reston, VA

$135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 245 rated software companies

Job description

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone networks. In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge Optical and IP networking technologies owning the deployment planning, implementation, and scaling of Meta's AI network infrastructure.
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, ensuring alignment with organizational direction and goals
  • Provide hands-on technical contributions (design, deployment, migrate, code reviews, troubleshooting, etc.) on large scale complex programs demonstrating domain expertise and technical impact
  • Contribute to strategic objectives by executing six-month to multi-year roadmaps that support business growth and transformation. Balance high-level strategic direction with hands-on leadership to deliver results across a broad portfolio of initiatives
  • Apply established engineering standards for reliability, scalability, and performance to deliverables, driving continuous improvement in engineering processes and technical quality
  • Collaborate cross-functionally across Network Engineering, Data Center, Network Investments, and Planning teams to ensure successful execution of shared goals on network delivery
  • Deploy, migrate and support our global production network including edge, backbone, and data center infrastructure
  • Mentor and onboard new team members, raising the team’s overall technical acumen and building internal community
  • 10% to 30% of travel

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 6+ years of Network Engineering, including hands-on responsibility for planning, building, deployment or migrating production network environments
  • 3+ years experience working in Optical Network Engineering
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise and carrier class routing, switching, and optical transport platforms
  • Knowledge of data center design and operational best practices
  • Proven experience leading and executing network deployment and migration projects
  • Experience interacting with vendors and external parties to drive projects to completion

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with process improvement and systems development, leveraging automation to streamline repetitive workflows
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  • Experience in data center, edge, or large-scale network environments
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Proficiency in automation (Python, Go, etc.) and network configuration management tooling
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$135,000/year to $191,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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