Network Lead - Data Center

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the network installation team, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of rack-and-stack activities for network switches, gear, modules, optics, and related hardware.
• Oversee network patch cord installation and patching, enforcing client-approved routing, length management, labeling, and dressing standards.
• Oversee layer 1 circuit audits, verifying physical connectivity, port mapping accuracy, and cross-connect compliance with design documents and client requirements.
• Manage port mapping processes, ensuring accurate tracking, documentation, and updates in client tools.
• Oversee hardware RMA processes, identifying faulty equipment, initiating returns, tracking replacements, and minimizing downtime impact.
• Oversee contractor performance to ensure on-time device provisioning, verifying readiness and aligning installation schedules with operational turnover requirements.
• Enforce dressing, labeling, and containment standards for all network cabling, patch cords, and equipment to meet client aesthetic, performance, and maintainability expectations.
• Conduct regular quality inspections of network device installations and patch cord runs, validating alignment with specifications, proper grounding, power connections, and optic cleanliness.
• Monitor and enforce ROJ (Required On Job) dates for all network devices to guarantee in-time arrival and readiness.
• Participate in pre-installation and coordination meetings to resolve conflicts, review port maps, and confirm installation sequences.
• Coordinate with the Superintendent and subcontractors for material staging, equipment delivery, and access requirements specific to network hardware.
• Maintain accurate as-built documentation for network installations, including red-lines, test results, and handover packages.
• Promote a “safety first” culture within the network team, assisting the safety team to ensure compliance with site protocols and local regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support project and company objectives.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5+ years in telecommunications or data center network installation, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role overseeing rack-and-stack, device provisioning, or physical layer network activities.
• Technical Skills: Working knowledge of network device installation (switches, routers, optics, modules) and physical layer standards. Experience with layer 1 circuit audits, port mapping, and cross-connect verification. Proficiency in client port mapping and tracking tools. Strong understanding of dressing, labeling, and containment standards for mission-critical environments. Familiarity with fiber optic handling, inspection, and basic testing (OTDR/OLTS reference setting, loss verification). Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Smartsheets, and Bluebeam.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate installation teams, enforce quality standards, and coordinate with multiple trades.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interface with client teams, subcontractors, and internal staff on technical and scheduling matters.
• Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills for physical layer issues and the ability to resolve installation conflicts quickly.
• Organization: Ability to manage multiple priorities, track hardware status, and maintain accurate documentation.
• Work Ethic: Self-motivated with a professional demeanor, strong work ethic, and a “can-do” attitude.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with client-specific network provisioning and turnover processes in hyperscale data centers.
• Familiarity with Division 27 specifications and client-specific network deployment guidelines.
• Experience leading equipment cutovers, migrations, or refreshes.
• Certifications such as BICSI TECH, Corning TS-LAN-500, or equivalent.

Additional Information

• This position is salaried.
• The Network Lead will report to the Telecom Project Manager and work closely with the Superintendent, Project Engineer, Field Engineer, and subcontractors to deliver high-quality network device installations for data center projects.
• This role is 100% On-Site.
• Candidate can be based in any location that DPR Construction has an office.
• Weekly travel to project location in Monroe, LA. is required.
• Competitive per diem and travel incentives offered.