Optical Network Engineer

Optical Network Engineer / DWDM Network Operations Specialist
Term : Long Term Contract
Location : Arlington, Virginia (Onsite) 

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Optical Network Engineer to support the deployment, operation, and optimization of large-scale optical transport networks. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining network reliability, executing infrastructure changes, troubleshooting network issues, and contributing to operational improvements across a complex telecommunications environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure, provision, and maintain DWDM and optical transport equipment.
• Perform remote software and firmware upgrades while adhering to established change management procedures.
• Support the deployment and operation of optical network infrastructure.
• Analyze and troubleshoot optical network performance issues using monitoring platforms, diagnostic tools, and device-level investigations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to plan, coordinate, and implement network changes.
• Maintain documentation related to network configurations, procedures, and operational activities.
• Participate in operational support activities, including incident response and network maintenance.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance network efficiency, scalability, and reliability.

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Required Skills and Experience

<>1. DWDM / Optical Networking Expertise

• Proven hands-on experience with Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) or optical transport technologies.
• Strong understanding of optical networking concepts, equipment configuration, and operational best practices.
• Experience supporting large-scale carrier, enterprise, or data center network environments.

<>2. Network Troubleshooting and Incident Resolution

• Demonstrated ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve optical network issues.
• Experience analyzing alarms, performance metrics, logs, and network telemetry to restore service efficiently.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in a production network environment.

<>3. Project and Time Management

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver work within established timelines.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and execution quality.
• Experience coordinating tasks across operational, maintenance, and improvement initiatives.

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Preferred Qualifications

<>Automation and Scripting

• Experience with automation and scripting languages such as Python, Bash, Shell, or Perl.
• Ability to automate recurring operational tasks and improve workflow efficiency.

<>Network Architecture and Design

• Understanding of network design principles, transport network architecture, and scalability considerations.
• Knowledge of network protocols and topology planning.

<>Systems Integration Experience

• Experience integrating hardware and software solutions across multi-vendor environments.
• Familiarity with interoperability and platform validation activities.

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Desired Attributes

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to service reliability and operational excellence.
• Ability to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving network requirements.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor''s degree in Telecommunications, Computer Science, Network Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Relevant experience in optical networking, telecommunications, network operations, or infrastructure engineering.

Key Technical Areas

• DWDM / Optical Transport Networks
• Network Operations and Maintenance
• Change Management
• Fault Isolation and Troubleshooting
• Performance Monitoring
• Network Automation
• Infrastructure Deployment
• Systems Integration