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Optical Communication Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: * DWDM modules ... Create and maintain high-quality engineering documentation, reports, specifications, and test ...

Lumilens

Optical Systems Engineer Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Strong communication and team leadership skills. * Willingness to travel (~20% of the time). Education & Experience * MS or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related technical field What We ...

Marvell

Staff Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$151K - $196K/yr

Optical communication is ubiquitous in these networks worldwide, both in long and short reaches ... Capable programmer with experience in Python. Experience with automating instrument control.

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: * DWDM modules ... Create and maintain high-quality engineering documentation, reports, specifications, and test ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$120 - $180/hr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a ...

New

Adtran, Inc.

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

## Senior Hardware Engineer- OpticalApplylocations: Atlanta, GAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 9 ... Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: + DWDM modules ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Integration of diverse optical systems, such as free-space optical communication systems, fiber ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly ...

IonQ

Optical Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$116K - $152K/yr

Focus areas include free-space optical communication systems and high-speed laser applications ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Optics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a ...

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All JobsOptical Communication Engineer Jobs

Optical Communication Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical communication 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 does an optical communication engineer do?

An Optical Communication Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that transmit information using light, such as fiber optic networks. They work on the hardware and software that enable high-speed data transmission over long distances for telecommunications, internet, and data centers. Their responsibilities often include optimizing network performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of optical communication systems. Optical Communication Engineers also stay updated on emerging technologies and standards in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical communication engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Communication Engineer, you need a strong background in optical physics, fiber optics, and signal processing, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, optical spectrum analyzers, and simulation software, as well as certifications such as Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT), is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining high-performance optical communication systems that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges optical communication engineers face when working on large-scale network deployments?

Optical Communication Engineers often encounter challenges related to signal integrity over long distances, integration of new technologies with legacy systems, and ensuring minimal downtime during upgrades. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as network planners, field technicians, and equipment vendors—requires strong communication and project management skills. Additionally, staying updated with the rapid advancements in fiber optics and modulation techniques is essential to design efficient and future-proof solutions.

What is the difference between Optical Communication Engineer vs Optical Network Technician?

AspectOptical Communication EngineerOptical Network Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field; certifications like CCNA, CCNPTechnical diploma or associate degree; certifications like FOA, Cisco certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize optical communication systems; often in labs or office settingsInstall, maintain, and troubleshoot optical networks in the field or data centers
Employer & IndustryTelecom companies, network providers, technology firmsTelecom providers, internet service providers, network installation companies

Optical Communication Engineers focus on designing and improving optical systems, requiring higher-level technical skills and certifications. Optical Network Technicians handle installation and maintenance tasks, often working in the field. Both roles are essential in the optical communication industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Optical Communication Engineer jobs

What states have the most Optical Communication Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Communication Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Optical Communication Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Communication Engineer jobs are:

Optical Communication Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Communication Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Adtran

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Welcome!
Our Growth is Creating Great Opportunities!
Our team is expanding, and we want to hire the most talented people we can. Continued success depends on it! Once you've had a chance to explore our current open positions, apply to the ones you feel suit you best and keep track of both your progress in the selection process, and new postings that might interest you!
Thanks for your interest in working on our team!
Overview
ADTRAN is seeking a highly motivated Optical Hardware Engineer to join our team developing next-generation DWDM optical transport solutions. This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful candidate will collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines to develop innovative solutions that meet demanding performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost objectives.
This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies that enable the future of optical communication networks while participating throughout the entire product development lifecycle.
Duties and Responsibilities
Optical System Development
  • Define specifications, evaluate performance, qualify, and integrate passive and active optical components and subsystems.
  • Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating:
    • DWDM modules
    • ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers)
    • Wavelength-selective switches
    • Optical amplifiers
    • Laser and photodetector-based subsystems
  • Analyze system performance and support optical design trade-off studies.
  • Collaborate with component suppliers and technology partners to evaluate emerging optical technologies.
Hardware Design
  • Design and develop electronic circuits for laser, photodetector, and optical subsystem control.
  • Implement and optimize analog and digital control algorithms.
  • Contribute to mixed-signal hardware development and troubleshooting activities.
  • Provide PCB layout guidance and participate in schematic, layout, and design reviews.
  • Support hardware integration, verification, and product qualification activities.
Test, Validation, and Automation
  • Perform hands-on laboratory testing, characterization, and validation of optical components and subsystems.
  • Develop software tools and automation solutions for:
    • Instrument control
    • Data acquisition
    • Test monitoring
    • Performance characterization
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to identify performance trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Develop and execute qualification and reliability test plans.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with optical, electrical, mechanical, firmware, software, manufacturing, and quality engineering teams.
  • Drive technical solutions that balance performance, packaging, interface, reliability, and cost requirements.
  • Participate in design reviews and support root-cause analysis and corrective actions when necessary.
  • Create and maintain high-quality engineering documentation, reports, specifications, and test procedures.
Required Qualifications
Education
  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • MS degree is preferred.
Experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant engineering experience in one or more of the following areas:
    • Optical communications
    • Test and measurement systems
    • Hardware development
    • Mixed-signal electronics
    • Photonics or related technologies
Technical Skills
  • Understanding of optical communication systems and optical networking technologies.
  • Experience with test equipment and laboratory measurement techniques.
  • Knowledge of analog and digital electronics.
  • Experience with mixed-signal circuit design and debugging.
  • Familiarity with laser and photodetector control systems.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and solve complex engineering problems.
Software Skills
Experience with one or more of the following is desirable:
  • Visual Basic
  • Microsoft Excel automation
  • LabVIEW
  • C++
  • Test automation and data acquisition software development
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with DWDM transmission systems.
  • Knowledge of ROADMs, wavelength-selective switching technologies, and optical amplifiers.
  • Familiarity with analog servo-loop control systems.
  • Experience supporting products through the complete development lifecycle from concept through production.
  • Knowledge of optical component reliability and qualification requirements.
  • Familiarity with industry standards including:
    • Telcordia
    • IEC
    • ITU
  • Experience working with external vendors and technology suppliers.

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