OSP Fiber Technician I

About the Role

The Fiber Technician I performs all aspects of fiber optic network maintenance and support for customer facilities, including ILA huts, buried, and aerial fiber. This entry-level role focuses on installation, splicing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of outside plant (OSP) fiber infrastructure to ensure reliable network performance and service delivery.

Responsibilities

• Splice fiber optic cables, including both loose tube and ribbon cables, as well as high-count ribbon fiber (864 count or higher).
• Construct and seal splice cases and fiber termination panels in accordance with company standards.
• Troubleshoot and repair fiber optic network issues to resolve signal degradation or outages.
• Perform routine maintenance and emergency repairs for ILA sites, including battery testing, fiber testing, and alarm response.
• Operate and understand technical equipment such as OTDRs, power meters, fusion splicers, and related testing devices.
• Accurately read and interpret work prints, splice diagrams, fiber maps, and existing documentation in the field.
• Conduct fiber testing, analyze test results, and provide timely reports to the office team.
• Install and dress fiber optic cabling, ensuring proper routing and adherence to safety standards.
• Perform fiber locates for company and customer-owned infrastructure.
• Assist with troubleshooting and repairing customer dark and lit fiber services.
• Lift, manipulate, and install splice enclosures and related OSP hardware and equipment.
• Respond to emergency fiber outages as part of the on-call rotation.
• Operate aerial lifts or bucket trucks for aerial fiber installation and maintenance.
• Exhibit and uphold company safety values and ensure worksite compliance with all safety protocols.

Key Performance Indicators

• Completion of scheduled maintenance tasks and emergency repairs within SLA timelines.
• Accuracy and completeness of splice records, test documentation, and reporting.
• Customer satisfaction ratings and quality of fiber installations.
• Adherence to safety procedures and zero preventable safety incidents.
• On-time response to fiber outages and successful resolution within performance standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1+ year of experience in fiber optic installation, splicing, testing, or maintenance preferred but not required.
• Experience operating fiber testing and splicing equipment (e.g., OTDR, power meters, fusion splicers) is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license.

Collaboration

Internal: Engineering and Design teams, Network Operations Center (NOC), Construction, Project Management, and Field Operations personnel.

External: Customers, vendors, utility companies, and local permitting or inspection authorities during site visits or maintenance activities.

Critical Success Factors

• Technical Expertise: Demonstrates strong knowledge of fiber optic systems, splicing techniques, and diagnostic tools to ensure accurate installation and reliable network performance.
• Safety & Reliability: Consistently follows safety protocols, identifies potential hazards, and responds quickly and effectively to outages or maintenance needs.
• Communication & Collaboration: Communicates clearly with internal teams, customers, and stakeholders while working collaboratively to resolve issues and achieve project goals.
• High attention to detail and dedication to service excellence.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Work involves standing, climbing, bending, and working in outdoor environments in all weather conditions.
• Comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces.
• Must be able to operate bucket trucks, aerial lifts, and other field equipment.
• Travel required to various job sites, including overnight stays as needed.