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Optical Network Planning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KCI Telecommunications

Optical Engineer

$132K - $170K/yr

Optical Network Engineer III W2 Only - No Sponsorship Offered Job Summary We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Optical Network Engineer III to join our team. This role is responsible for ...

Collabera LLC

Optical Network Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$66 - $68/hr

Completing cutsheets, planning, auditing the Span, and running required build workflows to execute ... of large DWDM networks, optical network technologies, and optical planning/modeling tools.

Viasat, Inc.

DWDM Optical Network Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

You will also work on layer 1 through layer 3 network design, capacity planning and platform ... Engineering to design complex optical networks * Applying your 5 years relevant work experience ...

L3Harris

Network Planning Engineer Intern Job ID: 42767 Job Location: Melbourne, FL Job Schedule: 9/80 ... Knowledge of Optical Carrier specifications ranging from OC3 to OC192 and a thorough comprehension ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Houston, TX

$135K/yr

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Denver, CO · On-site

$135K/yr

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Seattle, WA

$135K/yr

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Garland, TX · On-site

$135K/yr

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineer to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build one of the world's largest optical backbone ...

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Optical Network Planning Engineer information

See salary details

$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 Engineer

Remote

KCI Telecommunications
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about KCI Telecommunicationsexternal

$132K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Optical Network Engineer III
W2 Only - No Sponsorship Offered
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Optical Network Engineer III to join our team. This role is responsible for designing, deploying, configuring, and maintaining optical network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with optical transport networks and the ability to work independently under general supervision in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, build, configure, install, and maintain optical transport network infrastructure
  • Support infrastructure setup and hardware commissioning
  • Decommission obsolete or legacy network equipment
  • Execute complex work packages and network designs received via workflow tools, including:
    • Verifying network designs against physical network environments
    • Confirming material orders and work requests
    • Coordinating with cross-functional teams to complete work requests
  • Develop and execute Change Requests, including detailed Methods of Procedure (MOPs)
  • Deploy and provision optical network elements and services
  • Perform scheduled maintenance window activities including:
    • Network maintenance
    • Capacity augments
    • Network optimization
    • Troubleshooting
  • Provide Tier II technical support for:
    • Provisioning
    • ENOC Operations teams
  • Troubleshoot and provision optical transport equipment, including:
    • Nokia PSS
    • Cisco NCS2015
    • Ciena 6500
  • Ensure accurate documentation and ticket status reporting
  • Support break/fix incidents
  • Participate in a 24/7 on-call rotation as required
Required Qualifications
  • 3+ years of experience in optical transport deployment, operations, or maintenance
  • Proven experience working with optical network providers or vendors
  • Hands-on experience building optical networking infrastructure
  • Experience with optical transport equipment including:
    • Nokia PSS
    • Cisco NCS2015
    • Ciena 6500
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • OTN
    • SONET
    • DWDM technologies
  • Familiarity with routing protocols, optical transport provisioning, and troubleshooting
  • Ability to interpret complex work packages and execute tasks independently
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Experience performing critical network changes on live customer circuits without causing outages
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting large-scale optical networking infrastructure
  • Familiarity with common service configurations for optical transport systems
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work autonomously
Additional Requirements
  • Ability to participate in a 24/7 on-call rotation
  • Ability to work under pressure with strict deadlines
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

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