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Optical Network Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Principal Network Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Fleet is well positioned to bring in-house design, engineering, and operational capabilities to ... DWDM, CWDM, optical transport technologies * Routing, switching, and carrier networking * OT ...

... optical, and data center infrastructure across Meta's global footprint. In this role, you will ... Network Engineer, Operations & Support Responsibilities: * Troubleshoot and resolve complex network ...

Director Network Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$185 - $225/hr

Position Overview The Senior Network Development Engineer is responsible for the architecture ... optical transport, and large-scale network operations. * Strong experience with leading networking ...

Optical Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$116K - $152K/yr

... networking, sensing, and security. IonQ's newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Optics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Network Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$87.3K

$151K

$177.2K

How much do optical network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical network engineer in Colorado is $151,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $175,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical network engineer?

An Optical Network Engineer designs, implements, and maintains fiber-optic communication networks to ensure high-speed data transmission. They work with DWDM, CWDM, and other optical technologies to optimize network performance and scalability. Their responsibilities include troubleshooting network issues, upgrading hardware, and collaborating with other IT professionals to enhance network efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by optical network engineers on the job?

Optical Network Engineers often work with rapidly evolving technologies and must stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in networking hardware and protocols. Common challenges include troubleshooting complex connectivity issues, ensuring minimal network downtime during upgrades or maintenance, and optimizing network performance across diverse infrastructures. The role may also involve responding to urgent issues outside of regular business hours and coordinating with other engineering teams or third-party vendors. Adaptability and a proactive approach are key to effectively managing these challenges and delivering reliable network solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Network Engineer, you need a strong background in fiber optic communication, network design, troubleshooting, and a relevant degree in electrical engineering or a similar field. Familiarity with tools such as OTDRs, DWDM systems, network analyzers, and certifications like Cisco CCNP or similar are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this position. These competencies ensure reliable, high-performance optical networks and successful collaboration within cross-functional technical teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Network Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

Infographic showing various Optical Network Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,009 per year, or $72.6 per hour.

Sr. Network Engineer/ Sr. Optical Transport Engineer/ Wavelength Engineer

Aptino

Denver, CO • On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Senior Engineer – Long Haul Wave / Backbone Optical Transport

Location: Denver, CO OR Mt. Laurel, NJ – Onsite
Duration:12 Months

Job Summary:

We are looking for a Senior Optical Transport Engineer with strong hands-on experience in long-haul/backbone wavelength networks. The candidate must have direct experience with Nokia 1830 and Ciena 6500 and be capable of designing, provisioning, turning up, validating, and troubleshooting end-to-end wavelength services across a multi-vendor optical environment.

Must-Have Skills:
Nokia 1830 | Nokia PSS/PSD/PSI-M | Ciena 6500 | DWDM | ROADM | Long-Haul/Backbone Wavelength | Multi-Vendor Provisioning | Point-to-Point Wave Design | Service Turn-Up & Validation | Optical Troubleshooting

Key Responsibilities:
  • Design end-to-end wavelength services from Point A to Point B, including path selection, reach, optical power budget, amplification, regeneration, wavelength/spectrum planning, and ROADM considerations.
  • Provision and turn up wavelength services across Nokia and Ciena multi-vendor networks.
  • Configure and troubleshoot Nokia 1830 PSS, PSD, PSI-M and related shelf types.
  • Configure and troubleshoot Ciena 6500, Waveserver, and RLS, including transponders, CCMD/CMD, and line-system components.
  • Ensure proper service parameters and connectivity across Nokia-to-Ciena vendor boundaries.
  • Perform end-to-end service validation, including optical power checks, performance testing, error-free burn-in, alarms, and customer acceptance.
  • Troubleshoot complex wavelength issues involving optical power, OSNR, dispersion, span loss, framing, timing, and service alarms.
  • Isolate faults across metro, long-haul/backbone, fiber, equipment, and vendor boundaries.
  • Work with NOC, field teams, customers, and vendor support for service implementation and issue resolution.
  • Maintain accurate circuit designs, port assignments, implementation records, MOPs, test results, and as-built documentation.
Required Qualifications:
  • 5–10+ years of hands-on experience with DWDM/optical transport networks.
  • Mandatory: Nokia 1830 PSS/PSD/PSI-M experience.
  • Mandatory: Ciena 6500 experience.
  • Experience with Ciena Waveserver and RLS is highly preferred.
  • Strong long-haul/backbone wavelength experience.
  • Hands-on experience provisioning and turning up end-to-end wavelength services across multi-vendor Nokia/Ciena networks.
  • Strong understanding of DWDM, ROADM, wavelength planning, optical amplification, regeneration, OSNR, dispersion, optical power budgets, fixed/flex grid.
  • Ability to independently design a wavelength from Point A to Point B and explain the complete optical path.
  • Proven experience with service validation, customer acceptance, and troubleshooting of wavelength circuits.
  • Familiarity with optical network management/orchestration systems and strong technical documentation skills.