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Optical Fiber Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Impact ES-Ventura

Fiber Optics Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Strong understanding of fiber optic principles, cable structures, splicing ...

Impact ES-Ventura

Fiber Optics Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Strong understanding of fiber optic principles, cable structures, splicing ...

Impact ES-Ventura

Fiber Optics Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Required Skills and QualificationsBachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.Strong understanding of fiber optic principles ...

Field Operations

Fiber Technician 3rd Shift

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$53.40/hr

Knowledge of traditional fiber architectures, fiber optic systems, testing and splicing equipment ... Beyond our connectivity solutions, we also provide local news, programming and regional sports via ...

Vero Networks

Fiber Splicer

Eureka, CA · On-site

Test and troubleshoot fiber using an OTDR, optical power meter, fiber identifier and scope ... Work with Project Manager, Construction Manager and Fiber Engineer to perform splicing as directed

Vero Networks

Fiber Splicer

Eureka, CA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Test and troubleshoot fiber using an OTDR, optical power meter, fiber identifier and scope ... Work with Project Manager, Construction Manager and Fiber Engineer to perform splicing as directed

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

... fiber transmission systems for data center, metro, and long haul markets.Individual contributor engineering position responsible for designing control algorithms for highly-integrated optical devices ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

... fiber transmission systems for data center, metro, and long haul markets.Individual contributor engineering position responsible for designing control algorithms for highly-integrated optical devices ...

PsiQuantum

Manager, Optical Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to optics, fiber optics alignment, and length matching, or photonics assembly. Engineering Leadership * Lead and mentor a team of process, manufacturing, and ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

The candidate will contribute to optical system design, fiber coupling optimization, lens ... D. in: Optical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Applied Physics, or Related technical field

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Fiber Engineer JobsOptical Fiber Engineer Jobs in California

Optical Fiber Engineer information

See California salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical fiber engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical fiber engineer in California is $141,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical fiber engineer do?

An Optical Fiber Engineer specializes in the design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of fiber optic communication systems. They work on laying fiber optic cables, configuring optical network equipment, and ensuring optimal data transmission over long distances. Optical Fiber Engineers are essential for supporting high-speed internet, telecommunications, and data connectivity in various industries. Their responsibilities also include testing fiber connections, maintaining network reliability, and adhering to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical fiber engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Fiber Engineer, you need strong knowledge of fiber optic theory, network design, and installation practices, often backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like OTDRs, splicing machines, CAD software, and certifications such as FOA CFOT are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help engineers excel in troubleshooting and project coordination. These skills ensure reliable, high-performance network installations and maintenance, which are critical for modern communications infrastructure.

What are some common challenges optical fiber engineers face during large-scale network deployments?

Optical Fiber Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, navigating difficult terrain for cable installation, and ensuring minimal signal loss over long distances. They must also manage tight project timelines and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role frequently involves troubleshooting issues in collaboration with field technicians, project managers, and network planners.

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

AspectOptical Fiber EngineerOptical Network Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in telecommunications, electrical engineering, or related field; certifications like FOA or Cisco CCNAHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as FOA Fiber Optic Technician
Work EnvironmentDesign, plan, and oversee fiber optic installations; office and fieldworkInstall, maintain, and repair fiber optic networks; primarily fieldwork
Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providers, data centersTelecom companies, ISPs, network service providers

While both roles involve working with fiber optics, Optical Fiber Engineers focus on designing and planning fiber optic systems, whereas Optical Network Technicians handle installation and maintenance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the fiber optics industry.

Are optical fiber engineers in high demand?

Optical fiber engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and the need for high-speed data transmission. They typically require specialized skills in fiber optic installation, testing, and maintenance, and job opportunities are expected to grow as demand for faster internet and 5G networks increases.

How much do optical fiber engineers get paid?

Optical fiber engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in areas with high demand for telecommunications infrastructure.

How much does an optical fiber engineer make?

The average salary for an optical fiber engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in areas with high demand for telecommunications infrastructure.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in California?

For Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Fiber Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Fiber Engineer job openings:

Optical Fiber Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Fiber Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,730 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Fiber Optics Engineer

Impact Electronic Solutions, Inc.

Ventura, CA • On-site

$100 - $110/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop fiber optic cable assemblies and manufacturing processes.

  • Oversee fiber optic splicing, termination, testing, and inspection processes to ensure compliance with performance and quality standards.

  • Collaborate with production, quality, and R&D teams to improve yields, reduce defects, and optimize manufacturing efficiency.

Job description

Position Title: Fiber Optics Engineer


Department: Engineering


Reports to: Project Engineer


Salary Range: $100K - $110K


Position Summary

The Fiber Optics Engineer is responsible for the design, development, optimization, and oversight of fiber optic cable assembly processes within a manufacturing environment. This role requires in-depth technical knowledge of fiber optic systems, cable types, splicing and termination methods, and manufacturing quality standards. The Engineer will work closely with production teams to improve assembly techniques, ensure product quality, troubleshoot technical issues, and support the development of new fiber optic products.


Key Responsibilities

  • Design and develop fiber optic cable assemblies and manufacturing processes.

  • Create and maintain engineering documentation, including technical drawings, process flows, work instructions, and BOMs.

  • Oversee fiber optic splicing, termination, testing, and inspection processes to ensure compliance with performance and quality standards.

  • Analyze and resolve technical issues related to fiber optic assemblies, materials, and manufacturing equipment.

  • Collaborate with production, quality, and R&D teams to improve yields, reduce defects, and optimize manufacturing efficiency.

  • Develop and implement test protocols for fiber optic cables and assemblies, ensuring compliance with customer and industry specifications.

  • Train production staff on proper fiber optic handling, assembly, and safety procedures.

  • Evaluate and qualify new materials, components, and manufacturing technologies.

  • Ensure adherence to industry standards such as Telcordia, IEC, and relevant customer specifications.

  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction and quality enhancement.


Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

  • Strong understanding of fiber optic principles, cable structures, splicing, connectorization, and testing methodologies.

  • Experience with fiber optic manufacturing processes, equipment, and quality control practices.

  • Proficiency in reading and creating technical schematics, diagrams, and engineering drawings.

  • Solid problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues.

  • Familiarity with industry standards for fiber optic components and assemblies.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong cross-functional collaboration/project leadership skills.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a manufacturing environment.

  • Proficiency with software tools such as CAD, SolidWorks, or similar is a plus.

  • Training in Lean/Six Sigma, SPC/DOE, FMEA, ERP fluency.

  • Ability to lift and handle equipment and materials typical for a manufacturing environment.


Preferred Experience

  • 5+ years of experience in fiber optic product design or manufacturing engineering.

  • Experience working in a cable assembly factory environment.

  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.


Full-Time Benefits

  • Paid time off

  • Sick Pay

  • 8 Paid holidays + A floating holiday

  • 401k plan options after waiting period

  • Medical, dental, vision, AD&D and life insurance available after waiting period

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