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Freelance Optical Network Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Network Dev Engineer, DCNE

Seattle, WA · On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks Drive scaling current DWDM designs ...

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks Drive scaling current DWDM designs ...

Optical Network Dev Engineer, DCNE

Seattle, WA · On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: • Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks • Drive scaling current DWDM ...

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks Drive scaling current DWDM designs ...

Optical Network Dev Engineer, DCNE

Seattle, WA · On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: • Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks • Drive scaling current DWDM ...

Key job responsibilities As an Optical Network Development Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will: Build, Operate and rollout our global DWDM networks Drive scaling current DWDM designs ...

Network Engineer (Voice or Data)Position Summary We are seeking a highly skilled Network Engineer ... Optical & Wireless Networking * Support optical networking solutions including: * DWDM * CWDM

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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 Jul 14, 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 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Freelance Optical Network Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical NDE II, Optical Long Haul Network Deployment

Optical NDE II, Optical Long Haul Network Deployment

Amazon

Seattle, WA • On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,965 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Do you like to use networking concepts and system development engineering to deliver simple, sustainable and repeatable solutions? Would you like your work to play a key role in driving the stability and sustainability of next-generation IP networks?
Amazon Web Services is looking for an Optical Network Development Engineer to support and deploy one of the world's largest and most complex telecommunication networks. Our goal is to become "The Infrastructure Platform" to the world and customers demand the highest quality and reliability for their services. As we expand at a tremendous rate it is our responsibility to maintain that quality and reliability. We look for innovative ways to automate and scale our network as we expand, while driving complex issues to resolution.
AWS Infrastructure Services owns the design, planning, delivery, and operation of all AWS global infrastructure. In other words, we're the people who keep the cloud running. We support all AWS data centers and all of the servers, storage, networking, power, and cooling equipment that ensure our customers have continual access to the innovation they rely on. We work on the most challenging problems, with thousands of variables impacting the supply chain - and we're looking for talented people who want to help.
You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists, security experts, operations managers, and other vital roles. You'll collaborate with people across AWS to help us deliver the highest standards for safety and security while providing seemingly infinite capacity at the lowest possible cost for our customers. And you'll experience an inclusive culture that welcomes bold ideas and empowers you to own them to completion.
Key job responsibilities
As an Optical Deployment Engineer working within AWS Infrastructure you will:
• Design of optical solutions, hands-on to support deployment and manage rollout of AWS global DWDM network;
• Drive optical scaling tasks including fiber quality reviews and generate cutsheets and configs to meet the demand of AWS customers;
• Define and configure management solution to support optical network remote monitoring and device visibility;
• Work closely with other AWS Networking teams (field tech and fiber teams) to ensure optical network is scaled in time to support business;
• Review and implement changes on optical systems using manual CLI config or automated process via script;
• Ensure that optical network deployment tasks adhere to the defined AWS network standards;
• Execute implementation tasks following operational excellence standards and propose improvements in AWS DWDM network quality and reliability;
• Design and implement scalable operational processes to sustain and expand our optical network infrastructure;
• Lead end-to-end product evaluation and drive strategic commercial tender processes, ensuring optimal vendor selection and cost efficiency
• Troubleshoot complex problems on optical networks and eventually propose innovative solutions to improve the deployment agility;
• Lead and execute operational excellence programs that measurably improve DWDM network quality and reliability, reducing service-impacting events and raising the bar on optical network performance;
Our ideal candidate is highly autonomous, possesses strong written and verbal communication skills, strong project management and time management skills and has a successful track record of troubleshooting complex network problems and delivering innovative solutions. The desire and ability to work in a fast paced, collaborative environment is essential. This is an amazing opportunity in terms of responsibility, interesting challenges and high visibility.
A day in the life
This role oversees deployment of Metro and Long Haul systems and all processes related to those deliverables. It includes the design of the projects, generation of all technical documents, updating internal tools, deployment of systems in the real network and handover for operations. Also the deployment team is responsible to participate in testing new solutions and define technical requirements. Automation is a very important topic in this team to improve the deployment process, reduce the manual activities and make interaction between internal tools.
About the team
Internet Edge provides high-performing Internet connectivity for a wide range of use cases, such as retail (amazon.com), video streaming (Prime Video), content delivery (CloudFront), DNS (Route53), AWS services (such as EC2/S3), consumer devices (such as FireTV/Kindle/Echo), and more.
Within AWS Networking, the Internet Edge organization is responsible for connecting Amazon to the global Internet. With connections to thousands of unique external networks in hundreds of locations across the world, our mission is to deliver an Internet connectivity experience that sets the global standard for performance, availability, security, and cost, making Amazon the clear choice for our customers' needs.
The Long Haul Deployment team is responsible for the installation and commissioning of the DWDM systems for Optical Backbone. Our mission is to deliver unconstrained inter-regional transport at the lowest cost, with the most available product conceivable to AWS customers, making it invisible. The team vends capacity to internet backbone customers that provides low latency, high availability and supports features our customers expect.
About AWS
Diverse Experiences
AWS values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn't followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don't let it stop you from applying.
Why AWS?
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud platform. We pioneered cloud computing and never stopped innovating - that's why customers from the most successful startups to Global 500 companies trust our robust suite of products and services to power their businesses.
Inclusive Team Culture
Here at AWS, it's in our nature to learn and be curious. Our employee-led affinity groups foster a culture of inclusion that empower us to be proud of our differences. Ongoing events and learning experiences, including our Conversations on Race and Ethnicity (CORE) and AmazeCon (gender diversity) conferences, inspire us to never stop embracing our uniqueness.
Mentorship & Career Growth
We're continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth's Best Employer. That's why you'll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.
EEO/Accommodations
AWS is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace to deliver the best results for our customers. Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status; we celebrate the diverse ways we work. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please let us know and we will connect you to our accommodation team. You may also reach them directly by visiting please https://www.amazon.jobs/en/disability/us.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- 1+ years of working in a Linux/Unix environment experience
- Bachelor's Degree in technology related field or equivalent experience to a Bachelor's degree;
- 4+ years' experience with major DWDM platforms;
- 4+ years' experience with optical planning, modelling tools and hands-on implementation;
- Experience with the rollout of large DWDM networks in Metro and Long Haul spaces;
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with optical planning and modelling tools; and the rollout of large DWDM networks.
- Knowledge of L2 switching and L3 routing is desirable;
- Optical network design, planning and implementation skills;
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you're applying in isn't listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, WA, Seattle - 136,000.00 - 184,000.00 USD annually

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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US