Fiber Optic Jobs

Jobs in the field of fiber optics vary greatly, as do the types of companies and agencies who employ fiber optics professionals. Below is a brief overview of the types of jobs that are available in the field as well as some of the requirements for these various fiber optic jobs.

Types of Jobs in Fiber Optics

Fiber optic jobs range in both complexity and the level of education or training necessary to obtain them. Likewise, payscales in the field vary on the complexity of the position and level of expertise necessary to work in a particular career sector within the industry. Among the positions available are fiber optic component and system designers (engineers), manufacturing of fiber optic components or systems, fiber optics contractors (typically installers, splicers and repair technicians), and fiber optics education specialists or trainers.

Fiber optic component designers are typically physicists or chemists by training and will have a degree in one of those subjects or materials. Fiber optic systems designers are typically electrical engineers with at least a master's degree in their field. In the manufacturing field, skilled laborers are the most common employees - positions range from machine operators to logistics specialists, as most manufacturing concerns tend to.

Perhaps the most prevalent job opportunities in the field of fiber optics is for contractors or installers - these are most often called fiber tech jobs. Such specialists spend a large amount of time outdoors performing outside plant (or OSP) installations. Such positions require both the skill to perform the tasks of splicing and terminating line as well as the physical requirements that come from working outdoors and, at times, operating heavy equipment.

Entering the Field of Fiber Optics

Most individuals without specialized training in physics, chemistry, materials or engineering will work in either as fiber optic techs or in manufacturing. For more information on working in the field as a tech or a line installer and repairer, see more information at How to Become a Fiber Tech.