Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

About Us

At Gresham Smith, we call it Genuine Ingenuity. Our culture is the cornerstone of who we are, and our people are at the heart of everything we do. United by our Core Purpose—to plan, design, and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—we deliver innovative solutions for life’s essential infrastructure and institutions.

What sets us apart is our dedication to care for our people, our clients, and the places we call home. We are more than a team of professionals—we’re a community built on commitment, integrity, respect, and teamwork.

Why Gresham Smith?

When you join Gresham Smith, you’re joining a place where you can connect and thrive. Our employees consistently recognize us as a Best Place to Work because we go above and beyond to ensure that you feel valued, supported, and empowered.

About You

We’re looking for someone who has:

• Detailed knowledge of NESC and NEC code requirements
• Experience in passive optical networks, point-to-point installation, and optical termination equipment
• Familiarity with DOT plans production and procedures
• Computer-aided drafting experience; proficiency with MicroStation and/or OpenRoads Designer is a plus
• A bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Mechanical Engineering (BSME), or related field from an accredited four-year college or university
• 5 to 10 years of experience in Fiber Optic, Copper, and/or Coaxial Cable Outside Plant Design
• Registration as a Professional Engineer, or the ability to obtain registration within 12 months, with willingness to acquire licenses in other states
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Experience in the utility industry

Most importantly, you bring genuine curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit—someone who wants to do great work with great people.

About the Role

As a Broadband Engineer, you will:

• Perform Broadband/Telecommunications Engineering, responsible for overhead and underground Fiber Optic, Copper, and Coaxial Cable Outside Plant engineering
• Prepare, provide guidance, or assist in preparing and developing engineering deliverables for overhead and/or underground Fiber Optic, Copper, or Coaxial Cable projects, including line routing, structure selection and design, plan and profile drawings, hardware and cable selection, equipment and construction specifications, and associated calculations
• Perform Utility Relocation Engineering, including relocation plan design for highway construction projects, including those funded by State DOTs
• Provide design support and studies for Broadband elements in ITS design, covering planning, facilities integration, make-ready, and other related activities

Join Us

If you’re excited to bring your talents to a collaborative, people-first environment where you can make an impact while growing your career, we’d love to hear from you.

Here’s what you can expect:

Professional Growth: In-house Learning, Tuition Reimbursement, Licensure Support, Professional Organization Engagement.

Culture that Cares: 93% of employees say they feel cared for, and 96% are confident in our future success.

Competitive Benefits:

• Flexible Schedules & Generous PTO
• Healthcare (Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness Programs)
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Short- & Long-term Disability, Paid Life & AD&D
• Supplemental, Critical Care, Pet, Legal & ID Theft Insurance
• Family Planning and Parental Leave
• Mass/Public Transit Program
• Telemedicine and Employee Assistance Program

Gresham Smith is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. Everyone is invited to apply!

GRESHAM SMITH does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, headhunters, search firms, or agencies. No referral or recruiter fees will be paid without a fully executed GRESHAM PLACEMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT (PSA) in advance. Submissions made without a PSA may be recruited and hired by GRESHAM SMITH with no financial obligation to the submitting party. Any such unsolicited resumes or candidate information sent to hiring managers or any employee becomes the property of GRESHAM SMITH.