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Optical Fiber Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

Single-mode optical fiber systems * Ability to operate and troubleshoot electronic control systems for photonics devices * Applicants should thrive in a dynamic environment * U.S. Government ...

Quanta Services

Fiber Splicer

San Jose, CA

$28 - $40/hr

Asist in Fiber optic splicing * Setting up safety perimeter using signage, cones, safety barriers * Flagging traffic when required * Flexibility to work in multiple locations * Prepare splice ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

Single-mode optical fiber systems * Ability to operate and troubleshoot electronic control systems for photonics devices * Applicants should thrive in a dynamic environment * U.S. Government ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA

Single-mode optical fiber systems * Ability to operate and troubleshoot electronic control systems for photonics devices * Applicants should thrive in a dynamic environment * U.S. Government ...

FiberTel, LLC

Fiber Splicer

San Jose, CA

$28 - $40/hr

Asist in Fiber optic splicing * Setting up safety perimeter using signage, cones, safety barriers * Flagging traffic when required * Flexibility to work in multiple locations * Prepare splice ...

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All JobsOptical Fiber JobsOptical Fiber Jobs in California

Optical Fiber information

See California salary details

$10

$23

$39

How much do optical fiber jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical fiber in California is $23.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Fiber vs Cable Installer?

AspectOptical FiberCable Installer
Required CertificationsFiber optic certification, OSHA safety trainingGeneral electrical or construction safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor/outdoor, telecommunications facilities, data centersResidential, commercial buildings, outdoor utility lines
Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providersTelecommunications, cable TV, internet providers
Job FocusInstalling, splicing, testing fiber optic cablesInstalling, routing, and connecting various cables

Optical Fiber technicians specialize in installing and maintaining fiber optic cables used for high-speed data transmission, requiring specific certifications and working mainly in telecommunications environments. Cable Installers focus on installing various types of cables, including coaxial and Ethernet, in residential and commercial settings. While both roles involve cable installation, optical fiber work emphasizes precision and specialized skills for fiber optics, whereas cable installers handle broader cable types in diverse environments.

How do I start a career in optical fiber?

To start a career in optical fiber, pursue relevant education such as a high school diploma or technical training in telecommunications or electronics. Gaining skills in fiber optic installation, splicing, and testing, along with certifications like FOA or OSHA, can improve job prospects; entry-level positions often require physical stamina and attention to detail.

Is optical fiber a good career?

Optical fiber technicians and engineers work with installing, maintaining, and repairing fiber optic networks, which are essential for high-speed internet and telecommunications. The field offers steady employment, requires technical skills, and often involves certifications and physical work in various environments. It can be a stable and rewarding career for those interested in technology and infrastructure development.

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Fiber jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Fiber job openings:

Optical Fiber jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Fiber job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,101 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Staff Optical Engineer

Nokia

San Jose, CA • On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 101 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

 Join the development team for Nokia's next generation digital coherent optical transceiver modules and take on critical challenges in chip, module, and system designs to enable the next generation multi terabit optical 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 and implementing optical validation tests for digital coherent optical modules in the world's fastest next generation optical networking systems.

NION2026

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world. 

Learn more about life at Nokia.


Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia. 

Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.


Disclaimer for US/Canada

Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.

All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

Education / Experience

  • Ph.D. in Electrical or Optical Engineering + 5 years' experience
  • M.S. in Electrical or Optical Engineering + 10 years' experience.
  • Experience with fundamental and advanced photonic device design and characterization techniques.
  • Experience with control systems design desirable.
  • Software development skills desirable (C, PYTHON, VB, MATLAB or other)
  • Excellent presentation and communication skills.
  • Highly self-motivated, ability to learn quickly and move fast.

Design, implement and validate controls for digital coherent optical modules.  

Summary

Individual contributor engineering position responsible for design and simulation of advanced optical/optoelectronic designs and control systems to ensure high reliability and manufacturability.

Essential Functions / Key Responsibilities

  • Design, implement and validate controls for digital coherent optical modules.
  • Evaluate system and device designs to ensure high reliability over lifetime of product.

What Nokia employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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