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Optical Networking Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Adtran

Sr. Software Engineer (Firmware)

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

$114K - $151K/yr

You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems. Key Responsibilities

Adtran

Sr. Software Engineer (Firmware)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems. Key Responsibilities

Bold Business

DWDM Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$124K - $160K/yr

Network Design & Planning * Optical Path Engineering: Conduct link budget analysis, OSNR (Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio) calculations, and chromatic dispersion compensation planning. * Capacity ...

EOS

Network Pre-Sales Systems Engineer

Atlanta, GA

The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in enterprise networking, with a flair for data center or optical technologies, and a strong understanding of AI infrastructure. In this role, you ...

New

Meta

GA

$106K/yr

Hands-on experience with various optical/network communication equipment such as network/fiber ... copper test gear, and other WDM equipment, as well as associated tools and test equipment

Eye Care Partners

Optical Technician / Optician

Lilburn, GA

$16 - $20.50/hr

Our national network of over 300 ophthalmologists and 700 optometrists provides a lifetime of care ... SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes ...

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How much do optical networking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical networking in Georgia is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Networking vs Network Technician?

AspectOptical NetworkingNetwork Technician
CertificationsFiber Optic certifications, Cisco CCNACompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentFieldwork installing and maintaining fiber optic systemsOffice and on-site troubleshooting of network hardware
Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providersIT departments, service providers
Job FocusDesign, install, and maintain optical fiber networksConfigure, troubleshoot, and repair network hardware and software

Optical Networking specialists focus on fiber optic systems, while Network Technicians handle broader network hardware and software. Both roles require certifications like Cisco CCNA, but Optical Networking emphasizes fiber optics expertise. The roles often overlap in telecommunications and IT industries, but their specific tasks and environments differ.

What is optical networking?

Optical networking is a communication method that uses light signals transmitted through optical fibers to transfer data over long distances at high speeds. It is the backbone of modern telecommunications, enabling high-capacity internet, telephone, and video services. Optical networks use devices like lasers, fiber-optic cables, and photodetectors to convert electrical signals into light and back, allowing for extremely fast and reliable data transmission. This technology is essential for supporting the growing demand for bandwidth in today's digital world.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Networking Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Networking Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optical communication principles, fiber optic technologies, and network protocols, typically backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as optical spectrum analyzers, OTDRs, and certifications like Cisco CCNP or ONF-Certified SDN Associate is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals excel in design, troubleshooting, and collaboration. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure reliable high-speed data transmission and efficient network infrastructure in telecommunications environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optical networking roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optical networking often encounter challenges such as maintaining network reliability, troubleshooting signal degradation, and integrating new technologies with legacy systems. These issues require a proactive approach to monitoring network performance, continuous learning to stay current with evolving technologies, and strong collaboration with cross-functional teams such as network architects and field engineers. Addressing these challenges typically involves leveraging advanced diagnostic tools, participating in ongoing training, and adhering to industry best practices for installation and maintenance.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Networking jobs in Georgia? For Optical Networking jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Networking jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Networking jobs in Georgia are:
Optical Networking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Networking job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,653 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer - Embedded Software (Optical Networking)

Senior Software Engineer - Embedded Software (Optical Networking)

Ciena

Atlanta, GA • Hybrid

$107K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

This is a hybrid on-site role(not eligible for full-time remote work) where your technical leadership will directly influence product performance and customer success.
Join Ciena's WaveLogic Modem Software team and help shape the future of optical transport. In this role, you'll lead the design and implementation of embedded C/C++ software for next-generation optical networking and transport systems. This senior technical lead role combines hands-on coding with software architecture, influencing how hardware and software integrate to power high-speed networks.

How You Will Contribute:

  • Lead design, coding, and integration of embedded C/C++ software on Linux and real-time operating systems (RTOS such as Zephyr).

  • Develop software that interfaces with FPGA/ASIC hardware on SoC platforms.

  • Own the full lifecycle: requirements, architecture, implementation, testing, and customer deployment.

  • Prototype solutions on target hardware; create detailed technical specifications.

  • Collaborate with local and global teams to deliver scalable, high-performance systems.

  • Act as a technical lead: mentor engineers, review designs, and guide project progress.

  • Support field teams during deployments and troubleshooting.

The Must Haves:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical/computer engineering.

  • 10+ years in embedded software engineering (telecom, networking, datacom, or related)

  • 5+ years programming in C, C++, embedded C, with strong debugging tools (e.g. GDB, Valgrind).

  • Hands-on experience with FPGA/ASIC integration, device bring-up, and SoC platforms.

  • Knowledge of CPU architectures, hardware specifications, and timing diagrams.

  • Experience with Linux kernel and user-space drivers.

  • Strong foundation in embedded systems concepts: interrupts, synchronization, inter-process communication.

  • Familiarity with telecom and networking protocols: DWDM, OTN, Ethernet, TCP/IP.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical collaboration.

Nice to Have:

  • Experience designing large-scale distributed embedded systems using micro service architectures.

  • Knowledge of telecom standards such as G.709, IEEE 802.3.

  • Familiarity with data modelling (YANG).

  • Experience with development tools: Git, Eclipse, JIRA, Confluence, or Yocto.


Pay Range:
The salary range for this role is $107,800 - $172,200

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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