Senior Network Engineer-Fiber Access/PON In

I3 Broadband LLC•East Peoria, IL

37d

About The Position

The Senior Network Engineer – Fiber Access/PON Infrastructure is responsible for engineering and supporting i3 Broadband’s fiber access network including GPON and XGS‑PON platforms. This role focuses on the design, deployment, and optimization of Optical Line Terminal (OLT) systems and subscriber provisioning infrastructure delivering high‑performance multi‑gigabit broadband services across i3’s growing fiber markets.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Telecommunications, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
7–10+ years of experience in fiber access or broadband network engineering.
Hands‑on experience with XGS‑PON access networks.
Experience configuring and supporting OLT platforms and subscriber provisioning systems.
Strong knowledge of GPON and XGS‑PON architecture.
Experience with subscriber VLAN design and Layer 2 switching.
Understanding of DHCP, broadband authentication, and subscriber provisioning systems.
Experience with QoS implementation and subscriber traffic management.
Knowledge of fiber distribution architecture and passive optical network design.
Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
Ability to collaborate with engineering, operations, and field deployment teams.
Must be able to sit at a desk for extended periods, working at a computer up to 8 hours per day.
Ability to operate personal computers, telephones, and other common office equipment.
Able to climb and work on a ladder
Able to install and remove devices from server racks
Carry up 30lbs
Able to work in all weather conditions (snow, rain, etc....)
Participate in after-hours on call rotation.

Nice To Haves

Industry certifications such as CCNP, Nokia Optical certifications, or MEF certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

Design and support FTTx access network architecture delivering residential and business broadband.
Engineer and operate XGS‑PON platforms supporting multi‑gigabit fiber services.
Configure and maintain OLT platforms from vendors such as Nokia and DZS.
Design subscriber VLAN architecture and provisioning frameworks.
Support subscriber management platforms including DHCP and IP provisioning systems.
Monitor access network performance and troubleshoot subscriber connectivity issues.
Optimize access network bandwidth allocation and traffic policies.
Collaborate with outside plant, construction, and field teams to support new fiber deployments.
Maintain detailed documentation for access network configurations and architecture.
Participate in after‑hours support rotation for network operations.