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Optical Deployment Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... edge optical technologies. Hands-on fiber optics experience is essential for this role. What You ... Partner with application engineering teams to understand customer environments, deployment ...

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... edge optical technologies. Hands-on fiber optics experience is essential for this role. What You ... Partner with application engineering teams to understand customer environments, deployment ...

Engenuity Fiber

OSP Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Outside Plant Engineer will be responsible for tasks related to OSP engineering, network design, OSP construction, and ensuring the efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the ...

Engenuity Fiber

OSP Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Outside Plant Engineer will be responsible for tasks related to OSP engineering, network design, OSP construction, and ensuring the efficient deployment of fiber optics infrastructure in the ...

NATCOM

Be Seen First

Construction Sales Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Comprehensive understanding of telecom network architecture, fiber optics deployment, Security ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, or a related field preferred

NATCOM

Be Seen First

Construction Sales Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Comprehensive understanding of telecom network architecture, fiber optics deployment, Security ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, or a related field preferred

Buckeye Mountain

Field Network Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Role We are hiring a Field Network Engineer to be our on-site network expert for NaaS ... optic splicing and termination Details * Location: Field-based -- Chicago, IL preferred; deployment ...

Koch Industries

Mechanical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Your Job We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced fiber optic interconnect solutions. This role will be instrumental in driving Molex's mission ...

viaPhoton

Electrical Automation Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

... optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber ... You'll see projects through from concept to deployment and watch your designs improve how we ...

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All JobsOptical Deployment Engineer JobsOptical Deployment Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Optical Deployment Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$112.9K

$175.1K

How much do optical deployment engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical deployment engineer in Chicago, IL is $112,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $142,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical deployment engineer do?

An Optical Deployment Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and implementing optical fiber networks that transmit data over long distances. Their work involves assessing network requirements, selecting appropriate optical equipment, and overseeing the installation and testing of fiber optic infrastructure. They ensure that the optical network meets performance standards and troubleshoot issues related to signal quality or connectivity. This role is essential in supporting high-speed internet, telecommunications, and data center operations.

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

To thrive as an Optical Deployment Engineer, you need strong knowledge of optical networking principles, fiber optic technologies, and a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Experience with design and simulation tools (such as OptiSystem or Visio), familiarity with DWDM/CWDM systems, and relevant certifications like Cisco CCNA or FOA CFOT are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you coordinate deployments and troubleshoot complex issues. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reliable, high-performance optical networks and successful project delivery.

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

Optical Deployment Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing tight project timelines, and troubleshooting unforeseen issues during fiber installation or equipment deployment. Working on large-scale projects may require adapting to changing site conditions and ensuring that all installations meet rigorous safety and quality standards. Effective communication and collaboration with construction teams, network planners, and vendors are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Optical Deployment Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectOptical Deployment EngineerFiber Optic Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications like FOA or CiscoHigh school diploma or equivalent, certifications like FOA or OSHA
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and overseeing deployment projects, often in office or fieldInstalling, splicing, and maintaining fiber optic cables on-site
Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providers, network infrastructureTelecom companies, internet providers, cable TV installation

While both roles involve fiber optics, the Optical Deployment Engineer focuses on planning and managing deployment projects, whereas the Fiber Optic Technician handles hands-on installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in the fiber optic industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Deployment Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Optical Deployment Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Deployment Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Deployment Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Optical Deployment Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Optical Deployment Engineer job openings:

Optical Deployment Engineer jobs near you

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Panduit

Tinley Park, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Panduit rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 15 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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