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Optical Network Planning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NS4 Inc

We are seeking an Optical Network Modeling Engineer to support the modeling, analysis ... Exposure to network planning, simulation, or modeling tools. Requirements * Bachelor's degree in ...

VOLT

Network Planning Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Volt is immediately hiring Network Planning Engineer at Herndon, VA As a System Engineer, you will be responsible for: * Develop, evaluate, and maintain network architecture and planning strategies ...

Marencor

Optical Network Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$110/hr

Role: Optical Network Engineer Location: Fremont, CA Salary: $110-120k Role Description: Deployment Engineer working on Backbone Network capacity deployment. This role will be focused on network ...

Stem Xpert

Sr network planning engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

Nice to Have o Airlines - The Senior Network Planning Engineer is responsible for supporting IT verticals and business units in implementing new applications and making network modifications as part ...

CompQsoft Inc

$143K - $186K/yr

Optical Network Test Engineer Location: Fort Meade MD Clearance required by project: Active DOD Secret Certification required by project: IAT Level 2 or willing to obtain within 3 Months of joining ...

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Optical Network Planning Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical network planning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical network planning engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical network planning engineer do?

An Optical Network Planning Engineer is responsible for designing and optimizing optical fiber networks that support high-speed data transmission. Their work involves assessing network requirements, selecting appropriate technologies, and creating efficient layouts to ensure reliable communication. They analyze traffic patterns, plan network expansions, and troubleshoot potential issues to maintain performance and scalability. Additionally, they collaborate with other engineers and stakeholders to implement and upgrade network infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by optical network planning engineers during large-scale network deployments?

Optical Network Planning Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing network capacity with cost-effectiveness, managing equipment compatibility across vendors, and ensuring minimal signal degradation over long distances. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—including field engineers, project managers, and vendors—is essential to resolve design or implementation issues promptly. Additionally, staying up-to-date with evolving optical technologies and adhering to industry standards can require continuous learning and adaptation.

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

To thrive as an Optical Network Planning Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optical transmission principles, network design, and a relevant degree in telecommunications or electrical engineering. Familiarity with network planning tools (such as Wavelength Selective Switches, DWDM systems, and simulation software), as well as certifications like Cisco or Nokia Optical certifications, is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in designing robust networks and collaborating across teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient, scalable, and reliable optical network infrastructures.

What is the difference between Optical Network Planning Engineer vs Fiber Optic Technician?

AspectOptical Network Planning EngineerFiber Optic Technician
Primary ResponsibilitiesDesigning, planning, and optimizing optical networksInstalling, splicing, and maintaining fiber optic cables
Required SkillsNetwork design, technical analysis, knowledge of optical systemsFiber splicing, testing, troubleshooting
CertificationsOptical certifications, engineering degrees often preferredFiber optic certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, planning centers, sometimes on-site for surveysFieldwork, on-site installation and maintenance

While both roles work within the optical fiber industry, the Optical Network Planning Engineer focuses on designing and optimizing networks, whereas the Fiber Optic Technician handles installation and maintenance. They collaborate closely but serve different stages of network deployment and upkeep.

Are optical network planning engineers in high demand?

Optical network planning engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing expansion of fiber optic infrastructure and the need for advanced network design skills. Employers seek professionals with knowledge of network topology, optical transmission systems, and relevant tools like network simulation software. The role often requires certifications such as Cisco CCNA or similar to stay competitive in the industry.

What cities are hiring for Optical Network Planning Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Network Planning Engineer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Optical Network Planning Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Optical Network Planning Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

By Light Professional IT Services LLC
IT Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about By Light Professional IT Services LLCexternal

$143K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide. 


By Light Professional IT Services is seeking an Optical Network Technology Planning Engineer to join our DISA team at Ft Meade, MD.  This is an exciting key position to a major Department of Defense initiative.  The candidate will work all aspects of optical network equipment planning for the DOD’s global optical transport network.  The candidate will work to develop hardware (Major Bill of Material) deployment plans including system configurations, routing of the 10/100/400G circuits over the network, providing plans to operations of the circuits in “Wavelength Plan format” to meet service requirements. The candidate will support the DISA operations during the implementation of the hardware and services.


  • Based on the direction from government assess the service requirements and strategic technology requirements to develop deployment plans that include hardware requirements, transition plans and capturing the service routing in Wavelength Plan for implementation. 
  • Provide in-depth engineering analysis, deployment, and transition plans of transport level equipment in support of government strategic modernization efforts.
  • Interface with DISA operations and implementation vendors in the implementation of developed deployment and Wavelength Plans.

  • Minimum 2 years’ experience working in the planning of transport technologies such as Optical Transport System (a.k.a. DWDM), OTN/Packet switching, L1/L2 switches, legacy SONET/SDH technologies. 
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in a technical or related field.
  • Familiarity with ITU-T, OIF and IETF standards.  Knowledge of transport protocols such as ITU-T G.709, Layer 1/Layer 2 protocols, and Ethernet.  

  • Prior experience with a major Optical Manufacturer equipment a plus: Ciena, Cisco, Infinera or Nokia
  • Familiarity with QPSK, QAM is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of network management and experience with wave length planning tools such as One Planner, Transport Planner, Ciena MCP/Navigator, Blue Planet, or Cisco Optical Network Planner. 
  • DoD 8570-01-M IAT Level II or higher to include one of the following:  CCNA-Security, CySA+, GICSP, Security+, GSEC, SSCP, or higher level cert. 

  • Active Secret Clearance

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