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Optical Fiber Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Manages the inventory of the Zayo fiber network through database tracking of fiber enclosures, fiber optic cable, conduit, building data, and more. The Fiber Engineer will report to the Fiber ...

Be able to lead all aspects of Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) installation teams and possess a superior ... Work with Fiber Optic Field Engineer, participating in research and development experiments for new ...

Be able to lead all aspects of Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) installation teams and possess a superior ... Work with Fiber Optic Field Engineer, participating in research and development experiments for new ...

Be able to lead all aspects of Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) installation teams and possess a superior ... Work with Fiber Optic Field Engineer, participating in research and development experiments for new ...

Mandatory Skills Fiber Optic Installation (SM/MM, MPO/MTP, LC), Polarity Management, High-Density Fiber Cabling, BICSI/ANSI-TIA Standards, Fiber Testing & Troubleshooting/Cable Routing ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Fiber Splicer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Utilize fusion splicer, test equipment OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer) 1310, 1550, DWDM, CWDM, 945 OLTS, Max Tester, Power meter * Fiber engineer knowledge of fiber design, reading ...

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and ... Ability or interest in building fiber lasers. Ability to design and execute experiments validating ...

The Lead Technician - Fiber Optic Engineering is responsible for supporting the successful day-to-day execution of fiber optic deployment, splicing, testing, and maintenance activities across large ...

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

Fiber Splicer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Fiber optic cable construction * Fiber color codes * Connector types * Splice trays and enclosures * Cable management best practices * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, splice ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Fiber Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$82.3K

$142.4K

$167.1K

How much do optical fiber engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical fiber engineer in Virginia is $142,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,900.00 and $165,600.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Optical Fiber Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Fiber Engineer

Ashburn, VA โ€ข On-site

Zayo Group, LLC
Telecommunicationsย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Zayo provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world's most impactful companies, fueling the innovations that are transforming our society. Zayo's 141,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to thousands of buildings and data centers. Zayo's communications infrastructure solutions include dark fiber, private data networks, wavelengths, Ethernet, and dedicated Internet access. Zayo serves wireless and wireline carriers, media, tech, content, finance, healthcare and other large enterprises.
Zayo is seeking a Fiber Engineer to be responsible for the solution and design of physical fiber paths across the Zayo network in support of providing fiber-based services. Projects may encompass high volume large projects including FTT and various ring designs, fiber inventory management, Greenfield builds, technical splicing solutions, network relocations, and capacity augments/grooms. The Fiber Engineer works with large data sets and formal project planning over a long-term period of months, or years. Manages the inventory of the Zayo fiber network through database tracking of fiber enclosures, fiber optic cable, conduit, building data, and more. The Fiber Engineer will report to the Fiber Engineering Manager, with regular interaction from the Outside Plant Team, Network Inventory Specialists, Sales Engineering, and other Network Engineers. This position will be part of a regional break fix team. Primarily focused on troubleshooting and directing repairs on Zayo OSP fiber.
This is a Second Shift Position.
Work Authorization Requirement: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, such as OPT, TN, H1B or any other type of work visa, now or in the future.
Location: Preference to Central or East coast USA
Responsibilities:
  • Design routes for fiber-based services including Point to point, Ring, and path diverse routing.
  • Research existing databases, files, and records for purposes of network design, fiber optimization, and relocation of fiber facilities.
  • Deliver design solutions of fiber path and complicated splicing schematics to be performed for high volume fiber projects.
  • Ensure fiber plant database is current and accurate by inputting physical fiber asset data as well as fiber inventory and circuit assignments into the data management system, specifically GE Smallworld and Salesforce.
  • Ensure inventory of fiber utilization is accurate by maintaining inventory management database and maintaining both internal and external customer information as changes occur.
  • Assign cable names, splice ID's, and manages our Splice Activity & Order processes in alignment with our company and database standards.
  • Interface between various engineers and Zayo stakeholders as needed to validate project specifications, network growth, and delivery timelines.
  • Establish and maintain effective communications and professional working relationships with customers both internal and external.
  • Organize workday efficiently to maximize productivity by utilizing proper time management techniques.
  • Assist in the accomplishment of company objectives by performing other related duties as assigned.
  • Lead and manage the planning and execution of outside plant break/fix from inception to completion.
  • Develop detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets for projects as required.
  • Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, construction, design) and external stakeholders (clients, vendors, contractors) to ensure SLA objectives are met.
  • Oversee OSP activities, including fiber placement, splicing coordination, make-ready support, restoration, and maintenance.
  • Ensure work aligns with construction prints, permits, and engineering specifications
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing project conditions.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations, quality control, and construction standards in OSP projects
  • Will be part of an on-call rotation for holidays and weekends.

Qualifications:
  • Four-year college Degree in Engineering or equivalent Telecom Network Experience required.
  • Minimum of three (3) years fiber design experience that includes ring configurations, FTT projects, and various high volume site deliveries required.
  • Well qualified candidate will have proven aptitude to prioritize tasks and timelines while cross functioning in a fast-paced environment independently.
  • Proficiency in the MS Office suite of tools, in particular MS Visio and Excel. Knowledge of Salesforce.com platform is a plus.
  • Must have prior experience in telecom and fiber plant install. Splicing experience preferred
  • Knowledge of GIS-based platforms and fiber inventory systems. GE Smallworld, IQ Geo and OSPinsight experience preferred.
  • Must have Google Earth experience - understands how to produce a professional and detailed KMZ file and can interpret outside plant construction KMZ's.
  • Ability to correspond effectively with a variety of functional teams and strong interpersonal skills for supporting cross functional teams.
  • Proficient analytical, organizational, and time management skills, including the ability to effectively multi-task assignments.
  • Well qualified candidates will possess a work ethic that includes extreme attention to detail and strong organizational skills; including project management, effective communication skills while handling high volume projects, and proven ability to execute in fast-paced environments.
  • Successful candidates have ability to work quickly and efficiently without sacrificing data quality.
  • Must be able to translate information from the field, including raw OTDR data into plans of action
  • Must have extensive knowledge of EXFO Fast Reporter 3 software

Estimated Base Salary Range: $53,300.00 - $82,000.00 USD/annually.
The base pay range shown is a guideline and reasonable estimate for this role. It takes into account the wide variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions. Actual compensation offered may vary from the posted range based upon geographic location, work experience, skill level, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Non- sales roles may be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive plan. Sales roles may be eligible to participate in a sales incentive plan.
Additionally, this position may be eligible for certain benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, disability retirement plans, paid time off.
The posting will be active for a minimum of 3 days. The active posting will continue to extend by 3 days until the position is filled.
Benefits, Rewards & Wellness
  • Excellent Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Generous paid time off policy including paid parental leave

Zayo is an equal opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
As part of the application, hiring, onboarding, and/or employment process, Zayo or its affiliates, partners, and vendors may collect, store, and use biometric identifiers and biometric information (collectively, "Biometric Data"), such as fingerprints, facial geometry scans or other unique biological characteristics. Zayo uses CLEAR1, a third-party identity verification service, to verify applicant identity during the hiring process. CLEAR1 may collect Biometric Data, including facial geometry scans and/or other biometric identifiers, to authenticate your identity. Biometric Data will be retained pursuant to CLEAR1's policies, which can be found here: https://www.clearme.com/clear1-credential-policy-crp. Zayo will not sell, lease, trade, or otherwise profit from any applicant's or employee's Biometric Data. By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge this disclosure. Prior to any collection of Biometric Data - including through CLEAR - you may be presented with a separate consent form and asked to provide your written authorization in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), the Texas Capture or Use of Biometric Identifier Act (CUBI), and other applicable biometric privacy statutes.