Fiber Network Engineer

job summary:
Position Overview

A fully onsite role in Alexandria, VA. The Fiber Network Engineer is responsible for the planning, design, implementation, and ongoing management of a large-scale fiber optic communications network. This role supports mission-critical operations by ensuring a secure, resilient, and high-performance fiber infrastructure. The engineer will oversee the full lifecycle of the network-from route planning and capital project execution through operations, maintenance, and documentation.

In addition to day-to-day engineering responsibilities, this role includes a unique deliverable: the engineer will develop and refine a formal, comprehensive job description and role documentation based on first-hand experience, workflows, and observed operational needs while performing the work.

location: Alexandria, Virginia
job type: Contract
salary: $65 - 80 per hour
work hours: 9am to 5pm
education: Bachelors

responsibilities:
Job Responsibilities

• Design, engineer, and implement fiber optic network architectures, including point-to-point, ring, and path-diverse topologies.
• Conduct site surveys, route analysis, and network modeling to optimize network performance, redundancy, and reliability.
• Lead fiber-related capital improvement projects, including scoping, budgeting, scheduling, and execution.
• Manage consultants, contractors, and vendors throughout the project lifecycle, including design review, permitting, construction oversight, and acceptance testing.
• Oversee the installation, maintenance, repair, and renewal of fiber optic infrastructure and associated network equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fiber network outages, performance degradation, and system failures; coordinate emergency response and restoration efforts as required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date engineering documentation, including fiber maps, as-built drawings, schematics, splice diagrams, and asset inventories.
• Manage and update fiber databases, records, and network documentation systems.
• Develop technical reports, recommendations, and status updates for leadership and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with IT, operations, utilities, and other internal teams to integrate fiber infrastructure with enterprise, SCADA, radio, and security systems.
• Ensure all fiber network activities comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, codes, and industry standards.
• Support long-term strategic planning and roadmap development for the fiber network.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to fiber technicians or related staff as needed.
• Develop and refine a formal, comprehensive job description and role documentation based on first-hand experience, workflows, tools, and observed operational needs while performing the role.

qualifications:
Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, Network Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in fiber optic network design, engineering, and implementation.

Demonstrated experience managing fiber-related capital projects, including coordination with contractors, consultants, and vendors.

Strong working knowledge of fiber optic transmission systems, outside plant (OSP) design, and network architecture principles.

Experience conducting site surveys, route planning, and network analysis for fiber infrastructure.

Proficiency with fiber design, mapping, and documentation tools (e.g., GIS, CAD, fiber management systems, or similar platforms).

Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex fiber network issues in operational and emergency scenarios.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear technical documentation and reports.

Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment.

Experience working in environments that require adherence to regulatory, safety, and compliance standards.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

At Randstad Digital, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact [email protected].


Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad Digital offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).

This posting is open for thirty (30) days.