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Undersea Cable Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track, analyze, and report undersea cable faults and outages, including traffic impacts and restoration status * Collaborate with NOCs and providers to diagnose issues (e.g., trunk failures, segment ...

Track, analyze, and report undersea cable faults and outages, including traffic impacts and restoration status * Collaborate with NOCs and providers to diagnose issues (e.g., trunk failures, segment ...

To date, the company has deployed over 200 networks - enough undersea cable to circle Earth more than 17 times at the equator Position Overview: The Process Engineering Technician is responsible for ...

To date, the company has deployed over 200 networks - enough undersea cable to circle Earth more than 17 times at the equator Position Overview: The Process Engineering Technician is responsible for ...

$98 - $163/hr

The role oversees strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, technical assistance programming, and monitoring of international undersea cable projects. Lead large-scale foreign assistance-funded ...

New

Mechanical and optical properties of fiber optic cabling, its deployment, and the fundamentals of ... Experience in the design and testing of tethered and untethered undersea deployable devices (buoys ...

Mechanical and optical properties of fiber optic cabling, its deployment, and the fundamentals of ... Experience in the design and testing of tethered and untethered undersea deployable devices (buoys ...

Showing results 21-40

Undersea Cable information

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$31

How much do undersea cable jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for undersea cable in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an undersea cable?

Undersea cables, also known as submarine cables, are specialized cables laid on the seabed between land-based stations to transmit telecommunication signals across stretches of ocean and sea. They are primarily used for international data and voice communication, carrying about 99% of the world's internet traffic. These cables are engineered to withstand harsh underwater environments and can span thousands of kilometers, connecting continents and enabling global connectivity. Their installation and maintenance require specialized ships and technology, making them a critical part of the global communications infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an undersea cable engineer?

To thrive as an Undersea Cable Engineer, you need expertise in electrical and telecommunications engineering, knowledge of fiber optic technology, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with specialized cable-laying vessels, GIS mapping software, and industry standards such as ITU and IEEE is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability are vital soft skills for working in challenging and remote environments. These competencies ensure reliable global communications infrastructure and minimize downtime during installation and maintenance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in undersea cable roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in undersea cable roles often encounter challenges such as working in remote or offshore locations, dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, and coordinating with international teams across different time zones. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and adaptability are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Additionally, staying current with the latest advancements in submarine cable technology and adhering to stringent safety and environmental regulations can help ensure smooth operations and career success.

What is the difference between Undersea Cable vs Submarine Cable Installer?

AspectUndersea CableSubmarine Cable Installer
Primary RoleDesign, manufacturing, and maintenance of undersea communication and power cablesInstallation and repair of submarine cables on-site
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, planning officesOffshore, on ships, and at installation sites
CredentialsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsTechnical certifications, maritime training
Industry UsageTelecommunications, energy sectorsTelecom companies, specialized installation firms

Undersea Cable professionals focus on the design and maintenance of cables, often working in labs or offices. In contrast, Submarine Cable Installers are hands-on workers who physically install and repair cables offshore. Both roles require technical skills, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Undersea Cable jobs

What cities are hiring for Undersea Cable jobs?

Cities with the most Undersea Cable job openings:

What states have the most Undersea Cable jobs?

States with the most job openings for Undersea Cable jobs include:

Infographic showing various Undersea Cable job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 65% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 34% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,537 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Subsea Telecommunications Engineer

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Richland, WA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Pacific Northwest National Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Overview
At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Integrated Discovery Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.
The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex, real-world threats to our nation and the world.
The Emerging Threats and Technologies Division, part of the National Security Directorate, consists of over 400 scientists, engineers, and analysts with backgrounds in cyber, nuclear, intelligence, policy, data science, and other fields. We work in interdisciplinary project teams to provide innovative concepts that integrate policy, analytics, science, and technology into unique solutions.
Responsibilities
PNNL is looking for a mid-career Subsea Telecommunications Engineer with specialized experience in critical telecommunications infrastructure, particularly DWDM optical transport systems, subsea cable networks, and related control systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Ciena 6500 platforms, subsea cable systems, and operational technology (OT) environments unique to telecommunications infrastructure. A passion for securing critical infrastructure and being able to communicate both vulnerabilities and practical mitigations to various stakeholders is essential. This position is expected to take on task leadership for infrastructure security assessments, help mentor junior engineers, and advise project leadership on novel directions for protecting critical communications assets.
  • Designs, deploys, and operates security solutions for telecommunications systems, optical networks, subsea cable infrastructure, and associated management platforms.
  • Provides integration of hardware, software, and security controls specific to DWDM, optical transport networks (OTN), and submarine cable terminal equipment.
  • Engineers and deploys security and defensive countermeasures tailored to telecommunications operational technology environments.
  • Ensures system security requirements are assessed, established, and included in design and development of telecommunications infrastructure; executes security requirements definition, systems analysis, systems design, security hardening, security test and evaluation, and certification and accreditation.
  • Conducts vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and security configuration reviews of optical transport equipment, submarine cable landing stations, and associated control systems.
  • Designs architecture and implements new approaches, methods, and techniques for cyber defense and resiliency specific to telecommunications infrastructure and optical networking systems.
  • Analyzes threats specific to undersea cable systems, optical networks, and telecommunications supply chains.
  • Develops security monitoring and incident response capabilities for telecommunications OT environments.
  • May interface with external entities including telecommunications providers, equipment vendors, law enforcement, intelligence and other government organizations and agencies.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • BS/BA and 5+ years of relevant work experience -OR-
  • MS/MA and 3+ years of relevant work experience -OR-
  • PhD with 1+ year of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Direct experience with Ciena 6500 packet-optical platforms, SAOS/MCP operating systems, and associated management software.
  • Experience with DWDM (Dense Wave Division Multiplexing) systems, optical transport networks (OTN), and related protocols.
  • Familiarity with subsea cable systems, submarine line terminal equipment (SLTE), and cable landing station operations (SubCom, ASN, or similar systems).
  • Experience securing telecommunications operational technology (OT) environments and industrial control
  • systems.
  • Current Top Secret Clearance.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment
Not Applicable
Additional Information
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.
A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co-workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct.
Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
  • Drug Testing: All Security Clearance positions are Testing Designated Positions, which means that the applicant selected for hire is subject to pre-employment drug testing, and post-employment random drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).

Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy if non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 months cannot be demonstrated.
"Referral Eligible"
Testing Designated Position
This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The candidate selected for this position will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with the Controlled Substances Act and the PNNL Workplace Substance Abuse Program.
About PNNL
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State-the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab's campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity
Our laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free Workplace
PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements
As a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.
Mandatory Requirements
Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a "country of risk" without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar Rewards
Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company-funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.
Click Here For Rockstar Rewards
Notice to Applicants
PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual's relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum Salary
USD $140,200.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary
USD $228,800.00/Yr.

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About Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a premier research institution based in Richland, Washington, US. Operated by Battelle Memorial Institute under contract to the US Department of Energy (DOE), it is one of the DOE's seventeen national laboratories. PNNL primarily specializes in fields such as environmental science, energy, nuclear science, and national security. Founded in 1965, the lab has since been committed to its core values of integrity, creativity, collaboration, impact, and courage. Their mission is "to transform the world through courageous discovery and innovation." Notable achievements include significant contributions to projects like the Human Genome Project and the development of grid-friendly appliances.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Richland, WA, US

Year founded

1965