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Optical Fiber Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... fiber and devices, testing and characterization • Experience with optical metrology for component ... Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or related discipline, or equivalent experience ...

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... fiber and devices, testing and characterization • Experience with optical metrology for component ... Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or related discipline, or equivalent experience ...

We are seeking a Lab Engineer II to join our multi-discipline team responsible for the assembly, integration, and test (AIT) of opto-mechanical and fiber optic systems for free-space optical ...

We are seeking a Lab Engineer II to join our multi-discipline team responsible for the assembly, integration, and test (AIT) of opto-mechanical and fiber optic systems for free-space optical ...

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Integration of diverse optical systems, such as free-space optical communication systems, fiber ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly ...

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Integration of diverse optical systems, such as free-space optical communication systems, fiber ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly ...

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Position: Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, Washington (Onsite) Duration: Contract (24 ... Skills in optical/electro-optic measurements, fiber optics, free-space optics, and PIC packaging ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Fiber Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$94.5K

$163.4K

$191.8K

How much do optical fiber engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical fiber engineer in Seattle, WA is $163,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,800.00 and $190,000.00 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 job categories do people searching Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Optical Fiber Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,525 per year, or $78.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer, Optical Fiber (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$110K - $135K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, OPTICAL FIBER (STARLINK)

At SpaceX we are deploying Starlink, the world's most advanced satellite constellation, to provide broadband internet access to the world. We design, build, and operate all parts of the system - from the hardware in customers' homes to the satellites on orbit. Our engineers are endlessly curious, love to learn and try out new things, and work collaboratively across disciplines in a dynamic environment with changing needs as we strive to deliver high-impact technology on a global scale.

As a Manufacturing Engineer for Optical Fiber, you will develop manufacturing and test processes for optical fiber assemblies. You will work closely with design teams, integration and test teams, and suppliers to bring products from NPI to high-volume manufacturing. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing manufacturing and test procedures with the intent of improving optical fiber reliability.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Manage new product introduction and develop production processes for optical fiber assemblies
  • Design and implement development and production test procedures for optical fiber assemblies to improve reliability
  • Work with manufacturers and suppliers to implement process improvements to improve optical fiber reliability
  • Drive corrective actions and process improvements on owned processes and products
  • Lead investigation on non-conforming hardware to determine root cause and implement reliability improvements
  • Collaborate with design teams and provide design feedback to improve manufacturability and reliability
  • Identify trends and opportunities for optimizing product output, quality enhancements, and cost of manufacturability

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or other engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of professional mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing (internships/co-ops and club projects can apply)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Advanced technical degree
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience with manufacturing optical fiber assemblies
  • Hands-on experience with optical fiber testing (insertion loss, return loss, etc.)
  • Knowledge of various fiber technologies (single mode, multi-mode, polarization maintaining etc.)
  • Knowledge of optical fiber harness manufacturing and processing techniques (splicing, cleaving, crimping etc.)
  • High volume production experience (consumer goods, automotive, etc.)
  • Knowledge of various optical fiber classes and standards (OM3, OM4, graded index etc.)
  • Experience with environmental testing of optical assemblies
  • Strong desire and ability to learn quickly, adapt and innovate
  • Knowledge of statistical analyses and statistical process control
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Ability to work both autonomously and as a team in a highly demanding, fast-paced environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Some travel to our launch sites may be required as needed, up to 10%
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                          

Pay range:          
Manufacturing Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year  
Manufacturing Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year    
    
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
 
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US