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Manager Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic ... This role will require you to be in the office 50% of the time (schedule based on manager ...

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic ... This role will require you to be in the office 50% of the time (schedule based on manager ...

CCI Systems, Inc.

Fiber Testing Technicians

Gary, IN · On-site

Perform other duties assigned by management. Qualifications * Working knowledge of fiber optic theory, including attenuation, reflectance, connector types, and fiber classification required. * 2+ ...

Koch Industries

Fiber Systems Engineering Manager

Lisle, IL · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Your Job Molex is seeking a Fiber Systems Engineering Manager to lead a dynamic team focused on the ... Our Team Molex's Optical Connectivity Group is at the forefront of designing and delivering cutting ...

Team LINX

Traveling Fiber Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Maintain proper fiber routing, slack storage, and cable management to spec Testing and Troubleshooting * Perform OTDR, OLTS, optical power meter, and Visual Fault Locator (VFL) testing * Configure ...

Engenuity Fiber

OSP Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... design, permitting, program management, quality control, and field compliance. The company ... efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the Albuquerque Metropolitan Area.

Engenuity Fiber

OSP Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... design, permitting, program management, quality control, and field compliance. The company ... efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the Albuquerque Metropolitan Area.

Zayo Group, LLC

Associate Fiber Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$48K - $74K/yr

Our Fiber Engineer Specialist manages the inventory of the Zayo fiber network through database tracking of fiber enclosures, fiber optic cable, conduit, building data, and more. Our Fiber Engineer ...

Zayo

Associate Fiber Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$48K - $74K/yr

Our Fiber Engineer Specialist manages the inventory of the Zayo fiber network through database tracking of fiber enclosures, fiber optic cable, conduit, building data, and more. Our Fiber Engineer ...

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All JobsFiber Optics Engineer JobsManager Fiber Optics Engineer JobsManager Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Manager Fiber Optics Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$85.5K

$147.9K

$173.6K

How much do manager fiber optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager fiber optics engineer in Chicago, IL is $147,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,900.00 and $172,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a manager fiber optics engineer do?

A Manager Fiber Optics Engineer oversees the design, installation, maintenance, and optimization of fiber optic networks. They manage a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to technical standards. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting network issues, coordinating with other departments, and staying updated on emerging fiber optic technologies to enhance network performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager fiber optics engineer?

To thrive as a Manager Fiber Optics Engineer, you need expertise in fiber optic technologies, network design, and project management, usually backed by an engineering degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with optical testing equipment, network management software, and industry certifications like FOA CFOT or Cisco certifications is highly beneficial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are essential for managing teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies ensure efficient project delivery, high network reliability, and successful team coordination in a rapidly evolving technical field.

What are some common challenges faced by manager fiber optics engineers when overseeing large-scale network deployments?

Manager Fiber Optics Engineers often encounter challenges related to coordinating multidisciplinary teams, ensuring project timelines are met, and maintaining high quality and safety standards during large-scale network deployments. Managing supply chain issues, adapting to unexpected site conditions, and balancing multiple stakeholder expectations are also typical hurdles. Proactive communication, strong project management skills, and a thorough understanding of fiber optic technology are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering successful projects.

What is the difference between Manager Fiber Optics Engineer vs Fiber Optics Technician?

AspectManager Fiber Optics EngineerFiber Optics Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, certifications like CFOT
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee installation projects, coordinate teams, and ensure quality standardsInstall, test, and maintain fiber optic cables and systems on-site
Industry UsageUsed in telecommunications, data centers, and network infrastructure companiesPrimarily in fieldwork for installation and maintenance in similar industries

The Manager Fiber Optics Engineer focuses on project management, design, and team coordination, requiring higher-level technical knowledge and leadership skills. In contrast, the Fiber Optics Technician handles hands-on installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in fiber optic network deployment but differ significantly in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Fiber Optics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Manager Fiber Optics Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Manager Fiber Optics Engineer job openings:

Manager Fiber Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager Fiber Optics Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,940 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Panduit

Tinley Park, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Panduit rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At Panduit, we don't just offer a job - we offer a career where your contributions directly impact our customers, the environment and our company's success. You'll have the opportunity to grow, innovate, and be a part of an inclusive team that celebrates both individual and collective achievements. If you're ready to elevate your career and help us deliver exceptional experiences to our customers, apply today and make your mark with Panduit!
Innovation thrives when engineers are empowered to think differently, experiment boldly, and solve meaningful challenges. That's why we've built an environment designed for creativity and collaboration. Our 200,000 sq. ft. Innovation Center in Tinley Park, Illinois, features 18 cutting-edge laboratories and a state-of-the-art rapid modeling tool room - all dedicated to helping you turn ideas into impactful reality.
The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic connectivity solutions for telecommunications, data center, and high-performance computing applications. This role leads the full product lifecycle, from concept through launch, while partnering across teams to advance cutting-edge optical technologies. Hands-on fiber optics experience is essential for this role.
What You Will Do
  • Develop advanced fiber optic connectivity solutions, including connectors, cable assemblies, and high-density interconnect systems.
  • Lead products through the full development lifecycle, from concept and prototyping to testing and manufacturing release.
  • Execute product validation, qualification, and reliability testing for next-generation datacenter applications.
  • Research emerging technologies and apply innovative solutions to drive product advancement.
  • Partner with application engineering teams to understand customer environments, deployment challenges, and real-world use cases.
  • Create technical documentation, including specifications, test plans, validation reports, and application notes.
  • Bring creative, out-of-the-box thinking to product concepts, designs, and problem-solving.

What You Will Bring
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Opto-electronics, or Optical Engineering. Advanced degrees a strong plus.
  • Experience: 1.5 - 5 years in related role, with application experience in fiber optic connectivity in datacenter preferred. Experience with fiber optic connectors (MPO, LC, etc) cable assemblies, optical testing, optical measurements (insertion loss, return loss, alignment sensitivity, environmental testing), optical packaging, and ferrule alignment.
  • Knowledge: Familiarity with optical communication transceivers, high-speed optical links, fundamentals of micro-optics or lens design, and industry standards (IEC, TIA, Telcordia).
  • Systems: Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis. Experience with product design in 3D CAD preferred.
  • Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What We Can Offer You
  • Competitive Pay & Benefits: Enjoy a robust Total Rewards Program that includes health, financial benefits, and more.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexible work options to help you achieve the perfect work-life balance. This role will require you to be in the office 50% of the time (schedule based on manager's discretion).
  • Generous Time Off: Take advantage of our generous vacation, sick days, holidays, plus a volunteer day to give back to the community.
  • Retirement & Growth: 401(k) match, profit sharing, and abundant growth and development opportunities to help you advance your career.
  • Parental Leave: Because we care about your family and your future.

Compensation: The expected annual base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $100,000. Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Making the connections that matter. Join us and apply online to be part of the Panduit team. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace for all. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Panduit will not sponsor applicants for work visas now or in the future. All roles, including remote positions, require an in-person interview as part of the hiring process.
Work Shift
Day (United States of America)

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