1

Optical Networking Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Network Analyst

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Demonstrated understanding of networking systems and equipment * PSTN experience: Familiarity with ... Fiber optic systems: Knowledge of fiber optic cable characteristics, including engineering ...

Network Analyst

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Demonstrated understanding of networking systems and equipment * PSTN experience:Familiarity with ... Fiber optic systems:Knowledge of fiber optic cable characteristics, including engineering ...

Software and Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA

$177K - $210K/yr

Ethernet, IP routing, optical networking concepts, traffic generation and analysis * Experience developing in classified or air-gapped environments with restricted tooling * Experience with AWS ...

Engineer Sales Sr

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$89K - $119K/yr

Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS), Optical Networking, LAN/MAN/WAN technologies. • Voice Network technologies and protocols (VoIP, SIP, MGCP) • Access technologies (FTTH, DSL, DOCSIS ...

Network Analyst with Security Clearance

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Demonstrated understanding of networking systems and equipment * PSTN experience: Familiarity with ... Fiber optic systems: Knowledge of fiber optic cable characteristics, including engineering ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... level of proficiency with the Microsoft Office Minimum Qualifications: * Minimum of five (5) years ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site +1

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... level of proficiency with the Microsoft Office Minimum Qualifications: * Minimum of five (5) years ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... level of proficiency with the Microsoft Office Minimum Qualifications: * Minimum of five (5) years ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... level of proficiency with the Microsoft Office Minimum Qualifications: * Minimum of five (5) years ...

Network Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site +1

$50 - $60/hr

Ability to quickly analyze and resolve satellite and fiber optic network transmission issues * High ... level of proficiency with the Microsoft Office Minimum Qualifications: * Minimum of five (5) years ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Networking information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical networking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical networking in Virginia is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Optical Networking jobs in Virginia?

For Optical Networking jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Networking jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Networking jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Optical Networking job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,210 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Network Analyst

KBR, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$160K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

141st of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Network Analyst
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams: Ensure timely and accurate network analysis by aligning efforts across customer teams focused on logical and physical telecom routes.
  • Evaluate network operations: Collaborate with internal and external partners to assess the role and value of potential network activities.
  • Demonstrate telecom expertise: Apply deep knowledge of network operations, principles, and best practices to support mission objectives.
  • Support modeling with domain insights: Use telecom mastery to contribute mapping and graphics inputs to the customer's modeling tools.
  • Conduct technical analysis: Analyze wireless and wireline networks, transmission protocols, and network technologies to inform strategic decisions.
  • Communicate findings effectively: Present complex technical analysis to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
  • Track emerging technologies: Serve as a key resource for monitoring and interpreting new developments in telecom.
  • Maintain technical currency: Stay up to date with evolving technologies through ongoing training and skill development.

Work Environment:
  • Location: Chantilly, VA
  • Travel Requirements: Minimal
  • Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Security Clearance: Ability to obtain a TS++
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics
  • Experience: Minimum of 6 years
  • Facility Engineer or Network Planner (TDM/Data): Experience in traditional and data-based telecom infrastructure planning and engineering
  • Large-scale network engineering: Proven ability to work across multiple packet fabrics, including platforms like Google B4
  • Core or Radio Network Engineering: Hands-on experience with 3G, 4G, and/or 5G technologies in core or radio network environments
  • Telecom route analysis: Skilled in analyzing commercial telecom networks to determine physical and logical routing for strategic objectives
  • Advanced network technologies: Demonstrated knowledge of Network Management Systems (NMS), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), and Software Defined Networking (SDN)
  • Network infrastructure expertise: Familiarity with key network elements such as switches, routers, multiplexers, and both wireless and wireline transport systems
  • Strong analytical skills: Ability to interpret complex data and derive actionable insights
  • Network technology expertise: Demonstrated understanding of a wide range of network technologies
  • Protocol proficiency: Demonstrated understanding of network protocols and their applications
  • Systems and equipment knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of networking systems and equipment
  • PSTN experience: Familiarity with Public Switched Telephone Network operations and infrastructure
  • Data network experience: Hands-on experience with data networks and their architecture
  • Private communications: Experience with dedicated and private communication networks
  • VoIP and softswitch technologies: Proficiency in VoIP networks, softswitch technology, and session border controllers
  • Fiber optic systems: Knowledge of fiber optic cable characteristics, including engineering, installation, and maintenance
  • RF technologies: Experience with RF-related technologies and their integration into network systems
  • GPON technology: Understanding of gigabit-capable passive optical network (GPON) technology

Basic Compensation:
$160,200 to $195,800
This range is for the Virginia area only.
The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.
Additional Compensation:
KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

What KBR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


KBR logo

About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998