1

Optical Networking Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful ...

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful ...

Sr. Software Engineer (Firmware)

Atlanta, GA ยท 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

Sr. Software Engineer (Firmware)

Atlanta, GA ยท 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

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful ...

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful ...

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 ...

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

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

The Fiber Optical Repair Technician is responsible for the repair, restoration, and maintenance of ... This role ensures the rapid restoration of network services and supports ongoing operational ...

The Fiber Optical Repair Technician is responsible for the repair, restoration, and maintenance of ... This role ensures the rapid restoration of network services and supports ongoing operational ...

The Fiber Optical Repair Technician is responsible for the repair, restoration, and maintenance of ... This role ensures the rapid restoration of network services and supports ongoing operational ...

Optical Technician / Optician

Braselton, GA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Networking information

See Georgia salary details

$9

$18

$31

How much do optical networking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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.
Infographic showing various Optical Networking job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,653 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Senior Hardware Engineer- Optical

Adtran

Atlanta, GA โ€ข On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Welcome!
Our Growth is Creating Great Opportunities!
Our team is expanding, and we want to hire the most talented people we can. Continued success depends on it! Once you've had a chance to explore our current open positions, apply to the ones you feel suit you best and keep track of both your progress in the selection process, and new postings that might interest you!
Thanks for your interest in working on our team!
Overview
ADTRAN is seeking a highly motivated Optical Hardware Engineer to join our team developing next-generation DWDM optical transport solutions. This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful candidate will collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines to develop innovative solutions that meet demanding performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost objectives.
This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies that enable the future of optical communication networks while participating throughout the entire product development lifecycle.
Duties and Responsibilities
Optical System Development
  • Define specifications, evaluate performance, qualify, and integrate passive and active optical components and subsystems.
  • Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating:
    • DWDM modules
    • ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers)
    • Wavelength-selective switches
    • Optical amplifiers
    • Laser and photodetector-based subsystems
  • Analyze system performance and support optical design trade-off studies.
  • Collaborate with component suppliers and technology partners to evaluate emerging optical technologies.
Hardware Design
  • Design and develop electronic circuits for laser, photodetector, and optical subsystem control.
  • Implement and optimize analog and digital control algorithms.
  • Contribute to mixed-signal hardware development and troubleshooting activities.
  • Provide PCB layout guidance and participate in schematic, layout, and design reviews.
  • Support hardware integration, verification, and product qualification activities.
Test, Validation, and Automation
  • Perform hands-on laboratory testing, characterization, and validation of optical components and subsystems.
  • Develop software tools and automation solutions for:
    • Instrument control
    • Data acquisition
    • Test monitoring
    • Performance characterization
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to identify performance trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Develop and execute qualification and reliability test plans.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with optical, electrical, mechanical, firmware, software, manufacturing, and quality engineering teams.
  • Drive technical solutions that balance performance, packaging, interface, reliability, and cost requirements.
  • Participate in design reviews and support root-cause analysis and corrective actions when necessary.
  • Create and maintain high-quality engineering documentation, reports, specifications, and test procedures.
Required Qualifications
Education
  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • MS degree is preferred.
Experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant engineering experience in one or more of the following areas:
    • Optical communications
    • Test and measurement systems
    • Hardware development
    • Mixed-signal electronics
    • Photonics or related technologies
Technical Skills
  • Understanding of optical communication systems and optical networking technologies.
  • Experience with test equipment and laboratory measurement techniques.
  • Knowledge of analog and digital electronics.
  • Experience with mixed-signal circuit design and debugging.
  • Familiarity with laser and photodetector control systems.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and solve complex engineering problems.
Software Skills
Experience with one or more of the following is desirable:
  • Visual Basic
  • Microsoft Excel automation
  • LabVIEW
  • C++
  • Test automation and data acquisition software development
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with DWDM transmission systems.
  • Knowledge of ROADMs, wavelength-selective switching technologies, and optical amplifiers.
  • Familiarity with analog servo-loop control systems.
  • Experience supporting products through the complete development lifecycle from concept through production.
  • Knowledge of optical component reliability and qualification requirements.
  • Familiarity with industry standards including:
    • Telcordia
    • IEC
    • ITU
  • Experience working with external vendors and technology suppliers.