Fiber Optic Testing Engineer

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Fiber Optic Testing Engineer to join our Fiber Optic Lab team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for conducting comprehensive testing and evaluation of fiber optic communication products, ensuring compliance with international standards while supporting the laboratory’s accreditation, quality management system, and continuous development of new testing capabilities. Your expertise will be instrumental in delivering accurate and timely test reports, maintaining operational excellence, and contributing to the advancement of our testing services.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Testing and Evaluation: Perform rigorous testing and evaluation of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, connectors, patch cords, closures, and passive optical components to verify their performance and reliability.
• Standards Compliance: Conduct optical, mechanical, environmental, and durability testing in strict accordance with IEC, ISO, Telcordia (GR), and ITU-T standards to ensure product compliance and interoperability.
• Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Operate, maintain, and verify a wide range of laboratory equipment, including OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer), Optical Power Meter, Optical Light Source, Optical Spectrum Analyzer, Environmental Chambers, Tensile and Compression Testing Machines, and Climatic and Aging Test Equipment.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze test data meticulously and prepare accurate, detailed technical reports to support product certification and customer requirements.
• Method Development: Develop, validate, and implement new laboratory test methods and procedures to enhance testing capabilities and meet evolving industry demands.
• Accreditation Support: Assist in ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation activities, including method validation, uncertainty calculations, proficiency testing, and internal audits to maintain laboratory compliance and credibility.
• Equipment Calibration: Perform equipment calibration checks and coordinate external calibrations to ensure measurement accuracy and traceability.
• Quality Assurance: Investigate non-conforming work, implement corrective and preventive actions, and ensure all laboratory activities comply with stringent quality, safety, and HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) requirements.
• Documentation Management: Maintain comprehensive laboratory records, test documentation, and quality system documentation in accordance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Technical Support: Provide expert technical support to customers and internal stakeholders, addressing inquiries and facilitating smooth project execution.
• Equipment Evaluation: Assist in evaluating new laboratory equipment and technologies to identify opportunities for improved efficiency and expanded testing services.
• Research and Development: Participate in R&D initiatives to introduce innovative testing services and enhance the laboratory’s competitive edge in the fiber optic industry.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, you must possess the following qualifications and experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 2 to 5 years of hands-on experience in fiber optic testing, telecommunications laboratories, or Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) services.
• Preferred experience working within an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory environment.

Technical Knowledge and Skills

The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:

• Fiber optic communication systems and their applications.
• Optical loss and attenuation testing methodologies.
• OTDR analysis and fault localization techniques.
• Fiber characterization testing and performance evaluation.
• In-depth understanding of IEC, ISO, Telcordia (GR), and ITU-T standards.
• Familiarity with laboratory quality management systems and calibration principles.
• Strong technical report writing and data presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications for documentation and reporting.

Core Competencies

We are looking for a candidate with the following skills and attributes:

• Exceptional analytical and troubleshooting abilities to identify and resolve complex technical issues.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure testing accuracy and reliability.
• Strong technical report writing skills to communicate findings effectively.
• Proven problem-solving capabilities to address challenges in a dynamic laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment operation and maintenance.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to meet project deadlines and deliverables.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in Arabic is considered an advantage.

Preferred Certifications

While not mandatory, the following certifications will be highly valued:

• FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT).
• BICSI Certification.
• ISO/IEC 17025 Internal Auditor certification.
• ISO 9001 Internal Auditor certification (preferred).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Your performance will be evaluated based on the following metrics:

• Timely delivery of test reports with minimal turnaround time.
• High testing accuracy and quality to ensure reliable results.
• Optimal equipment utilization and uptime to maximize laboratory efficiency.
• Full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and laboratory standards.
• Zero major audit findings to maintain accreditation integrity.
• On-time completion of testing projects to meet client expectations.
• Development of new test methods to expand laboratory capabilities.
• High customer satisfaction ratings through responsive and effective support.
• Strict adherence to laboratory safety and HSE protocols.