Lead Field Optical Data Center Engineer (Travel‑Heavy)

Ericsson Inc. does not sponsor U.S. work authorizations for this job position, including immigration filings for initial or change of employer paperwork for H‑1s, H‑1B1s, E‑3s, O‑1s, and TNs. Ericsson also does not hire F‑1 applicants working on CPT or EAD for this position. About This Opportunity We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Center Optical Engineer to lead work in customer environments and co‑locations. The person in this role is responsible for ensuring the reliable installation, maintenance, and operation of optical transport and infrastructure within customer data centers, acting as the interface between the customer and Ericsson’s vendors while maintaining high standards of quality. The ideal candidate manages high‑quality execution across installations, migrations, remediation, break/fix, remote‑hands services, and is able to travel to non‑home sites at short notice, working there for several weeks up to 100% of the time. What You Will Do Conduct daily audits of work performed on behalf of Ericsson at customer data centers and co‑locations, providing immediate feedback to 3PP technicians. Interact directly with the customer via ticketing tools or face‑to‑face, providing clear and concise reports and updates that promote Ericsson’s value. Assist with fiber installation, decommissioning, break/fix, remediation and migration activities across data center optical and transport environments. Conduct and/or supervise optical testing and troubleshooting using tools such as optical power meters, stabilized light sources, VFLs, OTDRs, and test sets. Deliver services by accurately interpreting and executing Methods of Procedure (MoPs), engineering documents, vendor documentation, and network diagrams. Read and interpret cut sheets and physical network design documents to ensure accurate port connections and cable management. The Skills You Bring Team lead experience. Strong command of written and verbal English for customer‑facing communications and relationship building. Excellent organizational, administrative, and documentation skills using customer applications and/or Microsoft Office. 3–15 years of experience in data center operations or a similar technical environment with direct customer interaction. Strong hands‑on experience with connectorized fiber‑optic cabling, including single‑mode and multi‑mode fiber, LC, fan‑outs, and structured cabling. Demonstrated experience with optical testing and transport troubleshooting. Ability to multitask, remain composed under pressure, and adapt in fast‑paced, high‑availability environments. Commitment to safety standards, quality requirements, and operational best practices. Physical Requirements Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs. Comfortable working at heights and in varying environmental conditions. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, and you may be required to perform additional job tasks as assigned. Location and Job Details Primary country and city: United States (US) – Chicago, IL Job details: Field Services Compensation and Benefits at Ericsson Salary range: Illinois – $66,500 – $88,200 (dependent on location, qualifications, experience, and other factors). Salary also includes an annual bonus, with payouts based on performance against business objectives, individual performance, and bonus target eligibility. Health Benefits Ericsson offers excellent health benefits, including three medical plan options and a dental plan option. Employees receive company credits equal to the cost Ericsson pays toward their medical and dental premiums for themselves and eligible covered dependents. Financial Security Ericsson US 401(k) Plan offers an automatic 3% company contribution and a tiered match: $1 for every $1 contributed up to the first 3% of eligible pay, plus 50¢ per $1 for the next 2%. When contributing at least 5% of eligible pay, full matching of 4% is provided. Employees also receive company credits for life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment coverage, short‑term and long‑term disability coverage, and may participate in Ericsson’s Stock Purchase Plan. Time Off and Leave New employees receive a minimum of 15 days of accrued vacation, up to 3 personal days per year, 11 annual holidays, 8 hours of volunteer time, and 80 sick hours annually (pro‑rated based on start date). Paid maternity leave up to 16 weeks and parental or adoption leave up to 6 weeks at 100% pay are available. Additional Benefits Other company‑paid benefits include financial wellness programs, educational assistance, matching gifts, and recognition programs. Equal Opportunity Employer : Ericsson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ericsson