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Optical Fiber Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

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 ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

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 ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation, OSP engineering, wireline construction, and emergency maintenance services. At MasTec you'll be ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 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 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 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.
Fiber Optics Technician III

Fiber Optics Technician III

Prism Maritime

Chesapeake, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Fiber Optics Technician III
Work Location: Chesapeake, VA
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
REQ#26_01056H3
Summary of duties - Position requires a demonstrated knowledge of the principles of photonics, fiber optics for shipboard and/or shore installations, shop practices/procedures and supervision. Must have the ability to apply advanced technical knowledge to solve unusually complex problems that typically cannot be solved by referencing manufacturers manuals or similar documents.
  • Possess a demonstrated knowledge of working from blueprints, drawings, technical manuals, handbooks, other technical documentation and understanding/applying the principles of creating red line drawings.
  • Possess Superior knowledge in the troubleshooting, repair, operation, installation, test and checkout of Navy ship or shore fiber optic systems in accordance with NAVSEA specifications.
  • Possess a demonstrated proficiency in fiber optic connector building to include STs, SCs, FCs, LCs, on conventional fiber and furcated blown optical fiber (BOF) and common Measurement Quality Jumpers (MQJs).
  • Demonstrate a proficiency in shipboard and submarine fusion splice tray set up of all variations (6- and 10-inch tray, conventional, furcated, and 5mm reduction methods)
  • Demonstrate advanced skills required to support installation of the M28876 line of connector products from all of the main industry manufacturers including four, eight and 31 channel connectors, 12 channel hermaphroditic connectors, Deutsch MC3/MK-II and M38999 connectors and back shells.
  • Possess the level of termination skills required to produce passing Telcordia end face geometry requirements as measured by an interferometer.
  • Be able to lead all aspects of Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) installation teams and possess a superior knowledge of BOF installation drawings.
  • Be able to lead fiberoptic cable/connector testing teams using common instruments such as VFLs, DB loss, return loss (back reflection) meters, OTDRs, and interferometers.
  • Be able to lead a cable crew and perform IAW standard cable installation and routing criteria including Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) trunks.
  • Possess demonstrated superior technical skills to work independently and to provide guidance to other installers/technicians.
  • The Fiber Optics Technician III must be willing and able to perform as a fiber optic Task Leader on smaller scale tasks as well as function within a larger task as a "Lead Tech" reporting to the platform lead.
  • Perform any other assignments or tasks as needed or requested by management to assist in accomplishing the organization's mission, objectives, and goals.
  • Travel outside the local area may be required.
  • Overtime, including weekends is routinely required but not guaranteed.

Education / Experience/ Specialized training -
  • Must be certified in all NAVSEA Fiber Optic Modules.
  • Minimum of 4 years' experience in team management, supervisory, and leadership positions.
  • Must have successfully completed the Blown Optical Fiber (BOF) Installer's License program.
  • Must possess a valid OSHA 10 Maritime Card.
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent may be required depending on varying contract stipulations.
  • A minimum of two (2) years' participation in an approved electronic/electrical apprenticeship program, graduate of a Class A, B or C Military Technical School or civilian trade School or a minimum of six (6) years' experience in shipboard installation work as an installation technician or similar job description.

Additional Skills and Duties -
  • Familiarity with NAVSEA drawings, ability to navigate shipboard spaces, familiarity with company safety, quality assurance practices, and responsible for monitoring connector assembly tracking records, creating blown optical fiber (BOF) trunk installations records, and other QA spot checks/documentation.
  • Computer literacy, including use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
  • Work with Fiber Optic Field Engineer, participating in research and development experiments for new or updated installation processes, procedures, and test equipment.

Assist Project Manager with fiber optic task estimation and technical support when required
Security Clearance -
  • Clearance up to secret level may be required.

Physical/Environmental Job Requirements
  • Ability to visit any shipboard location where Prism work-scope is performed, including 010-level compartments, masts platforms, and controlled access areas.
  • Periodically required to lift/move equipment or materials up to and including 50 pounds.
  • Our work is primarily onboard naval vessels that may include variables of physical activity, e., stooping, climbing, walking, etc.
  • In performing these duties, you may be required to work outdoors. You will experience temperature variations, extremely loud noises, and other physical hazards.

Company Overview:
Prism Maritime is a premier maritime service provider for Alteration Installation Team (AIT) and Modernization related Services in support of US Maritime and Shore-based clients. Prism Maritime is a privately held business headquartered in Chesapeake, VA, with offices in San Diego and Ventura, CA. Established in 2006, Prism Maritime currently employs over 350 professionals and maintains an ISO 9001-2015 certified Quality Management System.
Prism Maritime is an EEO/AA employer. We invite resumes from all interested parties without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. U.S. citizenship is required for most positions.
If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment with us, please email hropportunities@prismmaritime.com or call: 757-460-8800.
To Apply: Visit www.prismmaritime.com and click on Careers>Job Openings
All applications are active for 90 calendar days. After 90 days you must re-apply to still be considered for this position.