Data Center Optical Field Engineer

NextGen | GTA: A Kelly Telecom Company; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading telecommunications firm is seeking a Data Center Optical Engineer for a contract role, supporting large-scale hyperscale data centers across various U.S. locations. The position demands 3–5 years in data center operations and strong technical skills in optical and IP networks. Responsibilities include optical testing, cabling, and hardware installation. This mid-senior level role provides an opportunity for significant hands-on work in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in data center operations or similar.
• Experience with racking, stacking, cabling, and break-fix.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Conduct optical testing and troubleshooting.
• Manage cabling tasks for fiber and Ethernet.
• Document activities and maintain reporting standards.

Skills

Data center operations experience

Hands-on technical skills

Optical and transport networks knowledge

Customer-facing support experience

Ability to lift 50 lbs

AC and DC power systems experience

Job description

Data Center Optical Engineer

Contract, onsite opportunity supporting large‑scale hyperscale data center environments across multiple U.S. locations including Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, San Jose, Los Angeles, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and Reston, VA.

Contract Duration

6–12 months (potential for extension).

Required Skills & Experience

• 3–5 years of experience in data center operations or similar environments
• Hands‑on experience with racking, stacking, cabling, decommissioning, and break‑fix
• Experience with remote hands services and customer‑facing support
• Strong knowledge of optical, IP, and transport networks
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and shift schedules as required
• Experience working with AC and DC power systems
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work at heights or in confined spaces

Desired Skills & Experience

• Team lead or oversight experience
• Experience supporting hyperscale data center environments
• Familiarity with structured cabling standards and best practices
• Experience working with third‑party vendors onsite

What You Will Be Doing

• 30% Optical Testing & Troubleshooting (OTDR, Power Meter, BERT, RFC2544, Y.1564)
• 25% Cabling (Fiber & Ethernet)
• 20% Racking, Stacking & Hardware Installation
• 10% Documentation, Audits & Reporting

Daily Responsibilities

• 70% Hands‑On Technical Work
• 15% Customer & Cross‑Team Collaboration
• 5% Oversight of Third‑Party Onsite Activities

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs
• Comfortable working in overhead racks, confined spaces, and at heights
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions

Training & Certification Requirements

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• PPE and ergonomics training
• Ongoing refresher training as required

Additional Information

• Must be in‑market and able to meet on‑site SLAs (4‑hour response, 30‑minute early arrival)
• Supplier responsible for required tools, laptop, smartphone, and timekeeping
• Onsite support includes travel between worksites during the workday as required

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Contract

Job Function

Consulting and Engineering