Network Engineer

Position Overview Optomi, in partnership with a leading fiber-optic network infrastructure and telecommunications service provider, is seeking a Service Fulfillment – Data Network Engineer to join its growing team in Charlotte, NC. This position is responsible for end-to-end provisioning of Internet and Ethernet transport services for carrier and enterprise customers, including new installations, moves, additions, changes (MACs), and disconnections. The engineer will provide technical support throughout the service activation process, ensuring accurate configuration, testing, and deployment of network equipment across Ciena, Fortinet, Cisco IOS, and Cisco IOS-XR platforms. This role also supports evaluating and implementing new devices and configurations to maintain network reliability and operational standards. Key Responsibilities Configure and provision Internet and Ethernet services for new installations, moves, additions, changes, and disconnections. Support deployment and configuration of Managed LAN, Managed WAN, LTE failover solutions, and basic Wi-Fi implementations. Review service orders, prepare customer premises equipment (CPE), and complete pre-installation configurations. Perform Service Activation Testing (SAT) using RFC 2544 and/or ITU-T Y.1564 methodologies. Configure and troubleshoot Fortinet solutions, including FortiGate, FortiAP, SD-WAN, and managed firewall services. Support network provisioning and troubleshooting across Cisco IOS, Cisco IOS-XR, and Ciena platforms. Troubleshoot post-installation issues and escalate complex technical problems when necessary. Coordinate with vendors and carriers for circuit turn-ups, service activation, and issue resolution. Test and validate standard network device configurations to ensure performance and reliability. Maintain accurate service documentation, configuration records, and project updates across multiple systems. Communicate order status, technical challenges, and potential delivery risks to management and project stakeholders. Required Qualifications 2+ years of hands-on experience in network engineering, service provisioning, telecommunications, or a related technical field. General knowledge of service provider networking technologies, including L3VPN, L2VPN, EVPN, MPLS, and BGP. Familiarity with Software-Defined Networking (SDN) concepts and technologies. Experience with Cisco IOS-XR and Ciena switching platforms, or the ability to quickly learn these technologies. Experience configuring and troubleshooting enterprise or service provider network equipment. Strong troubleshooting skills across network connectivity, routing, switching, and service activation. Ability to maintain accurate technical documentation and manage multiple assignments independently. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with internal engineering teams, vendors, and customers. Must reside in North Carolina and be able to work on-site in Charlotte three days per week. Preferred Qualifications Hands-on experience configuring Fortinet SD-WAN solutions and managed firewall services. Experience supporting Fortinet managed services, including Wi-Fi, 5G/LTE connectivity, and Managed LAN. Experience with Cisco and Ciena equipment in service provider environments. Familiarity with network service activation testing, including RFC 2544 and Y.1564. CCNA Routing & Switching, CCNA Service Provider, or equivalent practical experience. Fortinet NSE 4 certification or equivalent experience. Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Networking, Computer Science, or a related field preferred. Benefits & Compensation Competitive base salary of $80,000–$90,000. Annual performance-based bonus target of 5%. Annual merit increase of 3%. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance. Flexible spending account options. 401(k) retirement plan. Generous paid time off and paid holidays. Collaborative technical environment with opportunities for professional development. Work Environment This is a hybrid position based in Charlotte, NC, requiring three days per week on-site. Candidates must reside in North Carolina and be able to commute to the Charlotte office. The role offers the opportunity to work with service provider networking technologies, fiber-optic infrastructure, and enterprise connectivity solutions while collaborating with experienced network engineering and service fulfillment teams.