Optical Network Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA
Full Time
Experienced
Job Title: Optical Network Engineer  

DQE Communications, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a fiber-optic Internet and data network access provider for businesses and carriers in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio. DQE was established in 1997 as a dark fiber infrastructure company in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. Over the years, DQE has grown in both our fiber footprint and our product offerings to become one of the leading regional providers of secure, reliable, data network services. With an ongoing commitment to structured, well-planned growth, DQE is continuously expanding the fiber optic network to serve even more customers.

Working with DQE means businesses and keystone institutions get a partner dedicated to understanding specific needs and committed to delivering the right solution.
 

Job Summary:
DQE is seeking an Optical Network Engineer with strong DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) expertise to support the design, deployment, and maintenance of our regional optical transport network. This role plays a key part in ensuring the reliability and scalability of our fiber infrastructure by assisting with the implementation and troubleshooting of high-capacity optical systems. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience working with transport platforms in a telecom or ISP environment and is comfortable working in a lab setting. This position also supports network expansion, service turn-ups, and equipment upgrades as part of a broader Engineering team. Must be local to the Pittsburgh area. Hybrid work environment.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the design, configuration, and deployment of DWDM transport systems across metro and regional networks
  • Support field personnel during installation and maintenance of muxponders, transponders, amplifiers, and ROADMs
  • Understand fiber characteristics including OSNR, light-level measurements, fiber testing, and link validation
  • Troubleshoot transport-related issues at Layer 1 and coordinate resolution efforts
  • Maintain accurate documentation of network diagrams, equipment configurations, and circuit layouts
  • Collaborate with NOC, Field Technicians, and Engineering to support service delivery and upgrades
  • Participate in testing new hardware, software updates, and system features in lab environments
  • Provide input on capacity planning and support project-based infrastructure expansion

Required Skills & Abilities:
  • Solid understanding of optical networking concepts including DWDM, OSNR, dispersion, and attenuation
  • Hands-on experience with one or more transport platforms such as Ekinops, Nokia, Ciena, Infinera, Cisco NCS, or ADVA
  • Familiarity with fiber testing tools such as OTDRs, light meters, and optical spectrum analyzers
  • Basic knowledge of Layer 2/3 networking is a plus
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience creating network diagrams in Viso is a plus

Education & Experience:
  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Engineering, or equivalent experience in a related field
  • 3–5 years of experience working with DWDM systems or in a transport/optical networking role
  • Experience in telecommunications, ISP, or carrier environment strongly preferred

 
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