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Optical Fiber Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Fiber Splicer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top ... Duties * Splice various types and sizes of fiber optic cable including single mode, multimode ...

Be Seen First

Responsible for engineering, integrating, troubleshooting, and optimizing enterprise WAN/LAN environments supporting structured cabling systems, optical fiber infrastructure, wireless LAN, IPTV ...

Optical Engineer III

Reston, VA · On-site

$85 - $134/hr

Conducts new build engineering activities including fiber acceptance, span loss verification, optical line system commissioning, and as-built documentation * Supports optical equipment specification ...

Lead Fiber Splicer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$25.50 - $30.50/hr

... our certified engineers, IT consultants, and technicians deliver customized network and ... Install and terminate copper and fiber optic cabling for various applications like data networks ...

Lead Fiber Splicer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$25.50 - $30.50/hr

... our certified engineers, IT consultants, and technicians deliver customized network and ... Install and terminate copper and fiber optic cabling for various applications like data networks ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Fiber Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do optical fiber engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical fiber engineer in Washington, DC is $162,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $189,100.00 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 Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Fiber Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Optical Fiber Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,153 per year, or $78 per hour.

Fiber Splicer

Team Fishel

Manassas, VA • On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Team Fishel rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location
Manassas, VA
Market
Telecom Construction
Who is Team Fishel?
Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top priority and is key in everything we do. We're industry professionals driven by high performance for our customers and each other. Interested in joining our Team?
Description
Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Construction, is hiring Fiber Splicers for our Manassas, VA operation. The Fiber Splicer will be responsible for assisting Crew Leaders and Senior Technicians by completing projects safely, on time, and meeting and exceeding our customer's specifications for quality.
Duties
  • Splice various types and sizes of fiber optic cable including single mode, multimode, stranded and ribbon
  • Analyzes and troubleshoots basic technical problems or issues
  • Reviews, interprets and works with various maps, drawings and blueprints and testing documents
  • Performs daily tests, checks and maintenance of splicing and testing equipment
  • Performs optical continuity and conformance testing
  • Makes splicing rearrangements on existing facilities in buried, underground, aerial and building work locations

Requirements
  • Must possess at least a High School diploma or GED equivalency
  • Previous splicing experience highly desirable
  • Working knowledge of using various fusion splicing and optical testing equipment
  • Must possess the knowledge to identify and understand the difference between multi-mode and single-mode fibers
  • Must know the universal communications color codes
  • Ability to work with others and work independently
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Must meet Company minimum driving standards, have a good driving record, and be able to operate company vehicle
  • Team Fishel is an emergency response contractor for several fiber optic companies in the greater Manassas area. You must be available to assist in emergencies when required

Starting pay rate $27 - $32 / hour depending upon demonstrated experience.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Leave Benefits
  • Teammate Assistance Program
  • Learn more ( Español )

Team Fishel offers excellent industry training and a career development path for our Teammates. Competitive pay and benefits, including health insurance, 401k, and a company profit sharing plan!
Join Team Fishel, your future and your team.
EOE/DFWP

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