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Optical Transport Network Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineering Lead to join the team ... optical transport platforms • Knowledge of data center design and operational best practices • ...

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Optical Transport Network Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical transport network 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 is an Optical Transport Network Engineer?

An Optical Transport Network Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining optical fiber networks that transmit large volumes of data over long distances. They work with technologies such as DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing), SONET/SDH, and OTN to ensure efficient and reliable data transport. Their duties often include network planning, troubleshooting, performance optimization, and integrating new hardware or software. These engineers play a critical role in supporting telecommunications infrastructure for internet service providers, data centers, and enterprise networks.

What is the difference between Optical Transport Network Engineer vs Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician?

AspectOptical Transport Network EngineerNetwork Operations Center (NOC) Technician
CertificationsOptical certifications (e.g., CWNA, Cisco CCNA/CCNP)Network+ or CCNA
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot optical networksMonitor and maintain network performance
Industry UsageTelecom providers, data centers, ISPsService providers, enterprise networks

The Optical Transport Network Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining optical fiber networks, requiring specialized certifications and technical skills. In contrast, the NOC Technician primarily monitors network health and performs troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in network operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as an Optical Transport Network Engineer, you need a deep understanding of optical networking principles, fiber optics, and telecommunications protocols, usually backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with DWDM, SONET/SDH, network management systems, and certifications such as Cisco or Juniper are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help engineers troubleshoot complex issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable network performance, rapid fault resolution, and successful implementation of high-capacity optical transport solutions.

What are some common challenges Optical Transport Network Engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Optical Transport Network Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating newer technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy equipment and minimizing network downtime during upgrades. Balancing the need for increased bandwidth and performance with cost constraints is another frequent issue. Engineers must also coordinate closely with cross-functional teams, such as network architects and operations staff, to plan, test, and implement changes without disrupting critical network services.
More about Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Transport Network Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Transport Network Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Optical Transport Network Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
26-056 - Network Engineer III with Security Clearance

26-056 - Network Engineer III with Security Clearance

Eliassen Group

Colorado Springs, CO • Hybrid

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

26-056 - Network Engineer III
JOB SUMMARY: The Network Engineer III serves as a Network Development Engineer supporting the buildout, deployment, and sustainment of network capabilities within the program. This role operates within an agile team environment and is responsible for planning, integrating, and testing network upgrades across operational sites. SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: • Support network buildout and deployment activities to operational environments
• Work within an agile scrum team to plan and execute tasks based on customer and contractual requirements
• Serve as a primary Network Engineer supporting the program
• Plan, deploy, integrate, and test network upgrades at operational sites
• Travel to remote locations to lead and perform network installations such as Guam, Alaska, Europe, etc
• Perform independent troubleshooting and diagnostics of network systems
• Provide status updates and reporting to program personnel REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: • Proven experience as a network engineer with hands-on mid-level experience in network design, development, and testing methodologies
• Strong understanding of OSI Model, TCP/IP, and routing protocols including BGP and OSPF
• Experience with network traffic analysis, diagnostics, and troubleshooting
• Hands-on firewall experience, especially with Juniper, Fortinet, and Palo Alto
• Experience with UDP multicast, SONET, MSPP, VLANs, GRE tunnels, and TCP/IP network design
• Experience with multi-vendor switching and routing (Juniper, Cisco)
• Experience with WAN optimizers, TACLANEs, and optical transport equipment
• Understanding of DoD security practices including STIG compliance and system accreditation
• CCNA or JNCIA certification required within 30 days of start
EDUCATION: Bachelors with 5+ or Master with 3+ Years of Experience
LOCATION: Full Time/ On-Site in Colorado Springs, CO
CLEARANCE REQUIRMENT: Top Secret
DOD 8570 REQUIREMENT: IAT - Level II

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About Eliassen Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Eliassen Group provides strategic consulting and talent solutions to drive our clients' innovation and business results. Our purpose is to positively impact the lives of our employees, clients, consultants, and the communities in which we operate. Leveraging over 30 years of success, our expertise in talent solutions, life sciences consulting, Agile consulting, cloud services, risk management, business optimization, and managed services enables us to partner with our clients to execute their business strategy and scale effectively. Headquartered in Reading, MA, and with offices from coast to coast, Eliassen Group offers local community presence and deep networks, as well as national reach.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Reading, MA, US

Year founded

1989