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Optical Communication Jobs in Atlanta, GA (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 * ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) * Wavelength-selective switches * Optical ...

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA

$106K - $141K/yr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: * DWDM modules * ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) * Wavelength-selective switches * Optical ...

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: * DWDM modules * ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) * Wavelength-selective switches * Optical ...

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$106K - $141K/yr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: * DWDM modules * ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) * Wavelength-selective switches * Optical ...

Adtran, Inc.

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: + DWDM modules + ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) + Wavelength-selective switches + Optical ...

Adtran, Inc.

Principal Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Design and validate high-speed circuit boards supporting coherent optical communication systems. Lead signal integrity, power integrity, and electromagnetic compatibility analyses. Collaborate with ...

Adtran

Principal Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

Design and validate high-speed circuit boards supporting coherent optical communication systems. * Lead signal integrity, power integrity, and electromagnetic compatibility analyses. * Collaborate ...

Adtran

Principal Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA

Design and validate high-speed circuit boards supporting coherent optical communication systems. * Lead signal integrity, power integrity, and electromagnetic compatibility analyses. * Collaborate ...

PDS Optical

LICENSED OPTICIAN

Decatur, GA · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

At PDS Optical, we are committed to delivering exceptional eyewear and outstanding service to our ... Strong interpersonal and communication skills. * Ability to thrive in a fast-paced setting.

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Cartersville, GA · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience ... We see collaboration as combining the talents of a diverse group, offering proactive communication ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Cartersville, GA · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience ... We see collaboration as combining the talents of a diverse group, offering proactive communication ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA

$40/hr

Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto ... Good communication and collaboration skills Preferred Skills: * Hands on experience with high-power ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA

$40/hr

Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto ... Good communication and collaboration skills Preferred Skills: * Hands on experience with high-power ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA · On-site

$40/hr

Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto ... Good communication and collaboration skills Preferred Skills: * Hands on experience with high-power ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA · On-site

Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto ... Good communication and collaboration skills Preferred Skills: * Hands on experience with high-power ...

Asiacom Americas Inc.

Be Seen First

IDC IT Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

... and optical communication technology 3. 3+ year work experience in maintenance & operation at an IDC or Network Center 4. Trouble-shooting and problem solving abilities. 5. Must have at least a ...

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All JobsOptical Communication JobsOptical Communication Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Optical Communication information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

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How much do optical communication jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical communication in Atlanta, GA is $16.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical communication?

Optical communication is the transmission of information using light as the carrier, typically through optical fibers. This technology is widely used in telecommunications and networking, enabling high-speed data transfer over long distances with minimal loss. Optical communication systems offer advantages such as large bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and high security. Common applications include internet backbone infrastructure, cable television, and data centers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in optical communication, and why are they important?

To excel in Optical Communication, you need a solid background in physics, electronics, and telecommunications, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with fiber optic systems, optical network design tools, and certifications such as FOA or Cisco Optical Specialist are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help professionals address complex technical challenges and collaborate on large-scale projects. These competencies are vital for ensuring reliable, high-performance data transmission systems that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optical communication roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Optical Communication often encounter challenges such as maintaining signal integrity over long distances, troubleshooting network disruptions, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. These obstacles can be addressed through continuous training, proactive system monitoring, and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including network engineers and hardware specialists. Staying updated on industry best practices and participating in knowledge-sharing sessions also play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges and ensuring reliable optical networks.

What is the difference between Optical Communication vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical CommunicationOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, Cisco certificationsBachelor's or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics; certifications like Cisco or industry-specific optical certifications
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, network providers, research labs; focus on network infrastructureResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departments; focus on design and development of optical systems
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providers, data centersOptical component manufacturers, research institutions, tech companies

Optical Communication primarily involves the transmission of data through optical fibers and network infrastructure, focusing on deployment and maintenance. In contrast, Optical Engineers design and develop optical systems and components, emphasizing research and innovation. Both roles require technical knowledge of optics but differ in their focus areas and work environments.

Are optical communication engineers in high demand?

Optical communication engineers are in high demand due to the expanding need for high-speed data transmission and fiber optic networks. They often work in telecommunications, network infrastructure, and research environments, with skills in fiber optics, signal processing, and network design being highly valued.

What is an optical communication system?

An optical communication system is a technology that transmits information using light signals through optical fibers or free space. It involves components like lasers, photodetectors, and optical fibers, and is used in telecommunications, data centers, and networking to achieve high-speed data transfer. Optical communication specialists often work with signal modulation, fiber optics, and network infrastructure to ensure efficient data transmission.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Communication jobs in Atlanta, GA?

For Optical Communication jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Communication jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Communication jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Optical Communication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Communication job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,171 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Adtran
Telecommunications • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Adtranexternal

$106K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 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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