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Manager Fiber Optics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

viaPhoton

Optoelectronics Engineer

Chicago, IL

Who We Are We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end ...

Panduit

Product Manager

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Knowledge of fiber optics, fiber infrastructure, network infrastructure, and data center solutions ... engineering, operations, and other business functions. * Knowledge of stage‑gate product ...

GDH

Network Installer

Almont, CO · On-site

$64 - $68/hr

The role requires managing IP-based networks, including routing, switching, security, and fiber optic systems, across a regional area. The successful candidate will work from a designated location ...

Ezee Fiber

RVP, Construction, Midwest

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$170 - $230/hr

... fiber optic construction, networking, and project management experience. In this role, you will ... engineering, or a related field. Master's degree preferred but not required. A minimum of fifteen ...

viaPhoton

Packaging Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

Who We Are We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end ...

Koch Industries

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This team is responsible for the conceptualization of industry leading fiber optic interconnect ... Interface with cross-functional team members in product and project management, manufacturing ...

Ripple Fiber

Construction Supervisor (770)

Itasca, IL · On-site

$70 - $80/hr

About the Role The Construction Supervisor oversees and manages construction activities associated with expanding and upgrading our fiber optic network infrastructure. The role ensures that all ...

New

Ezee Fiber

RVP, Construction, Midwest

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

Responsibilities The Regional Vice-President of Construction has relevant fiber optic construction, networking, and project management experience. In this role, you will assist the Project Management ...

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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 Sep 4, 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.

Optoelectronics Engineer

viaPhoton

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Guide the Co-Packaged Optics product family from technology selection and architecture through development, integration, and productization

  • Assess the optical engine technology and vendor ecosystem to build effective technologies and sourcing partnerships for CPO products

  • Guide Optical Module development from concept through to production

Job description

Who We Are

We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data centers, 5G networks, and AI infrastructure shaping the next decade, and our customers need them in weeks, not months. In five years we've grown to a team of 200+ and 4x'd our revenue in the last year alone, and we're just getting started. We're looking for people who want to do their best work with a team that's moving fast.

About the Role

You'll shape viaPhoton's new Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) product family, guiding it from technology selection and architecture all the way through to production. This is hands-on work at the cutting edge of optical technology, extending our footprint deeper into AI data centers and factories. You'll partner closely with a cross-functional team to turn next-generation optical solutions into products we can ship.

  • Guide the Co-Packaged Optics product family from technology selection and architecture through development, integration, and productization
  • Assess the optical engine technology and vendor ecosystem to build effective technologies and sourcing partnerships for CPO products
  • Guide Optical Module development from concept through to productionUse optical and electrical modeling and simulation software to design electro-optical devices and data paths
  • Collaborate across a cross-functional team of digital and analog circuit designers, signal and power integrity experts, substrate layout, and system design members

What You'll Bring

  • A BS in Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience developing high-speed optical modules
  • A background in high-speed optical devices such as lasers, detectors, modulators, and integrated optical components
  • strong understanding of silicon photonics, semiconductor physics, and optical component design, fabrication, and test
  • Are comfortable with EDA and optical simulation tools, 2.5D/3D optical-electronic integration, and higher-order PAM transmission formats

Want to read the full job description? Optoelectronics Engineer JD

What's in it for you?

  • Robust health, dental, and vision coverage that starts on day 1
  • 401(k) with 4% match, vests immediately after a 90-day waiting period
  • Flexible PTO that grows over time
  • 10 paid holidays, including 2 floating holidays
  • Monthly team events
  • Click here to view our full benefits overview.

Location: Naperville, IL

Schedule: Mon–Fri | Onsite

Compensation: $80,000 to $150,000 base, plus annual bonus

We're building something big, and we want good people along for the ride. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today.

At viaPhoton, we are committed to furthering our culture of inclusion. We reinforce this through our core values and beliefs as well as our processes and strategic goals. We remind team members to seek various viewpoints, learn and be hungry with curiosity, and gain trust.

We are an equal opportunity employer and make all employment decisions based on merit and qualifications. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, health condition, genetic information, marital or family status, military or veteran status, socioeconomic background, or any other status protected by applicable law.

We provide reasonable accommodations and adjustments throughout the hiring process. If you need one, please let us know. Any personal data you share with us is handled confidentially and in line with applicable data protection law.