Outside Plant (OSP) Fiber Splicer
About the role
The FTTH Outside Plant Fiber Splicer is responsible for splicing, testing, and troubleshooting fiber optic cables in Outside Plant (OSP) environments to support Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) network construction and maintenance. This role requires strong technical skill in large-count fiber splicing, precision in fusion splicing and testing, and the ability to diagnose and resolve fiber network issues efficiently in the field.
Responsibilities
- Perform fusion splicing of single-mode fiber optic cables, including large fiber-count cables (144+ count), in aerial, underground, and buried outside plant environments.
- Read and interpret OSP construction prints, splice diagrams, and fiber routing/assignment sheets to complete splicing in accordance with design and engineering specifications.
- Test and certify fiber spans using OTDR, power meter/light source, and other fiber test equipment; document and interpret results to confirm spans meet loss and performance standards.
- Troubleshoot and resolve fiber optic network faults, including locating breaks, high-loss splices, and connectivity issues, and perform emergency repairs to restore service.
- Splice and test fiber in splice enclosures, cabinets, vaults, hand holes, terminals, and NIDs. Properly organize, dress, and store fiber slack and splice trays to industry and company standards.
- Maintain accurate splicing and test documentation, including as-built records, splice loss reports, and OTDR traces.
- Respond to on-call service requests and network outages outside of normal working hours as scheduled or required.
- Clock with construction crews, engineering, and project management to sequence splicing work with build schedules.
- Maintain, calibrate, and care for splicing and testing equipment, tools, and vehicle inventory.
- Follow all safety protocols, including traffic control, confined space entry, ladder/aerial lift safety, and proper PPE use.
- Operate a company vehicle to travel between job sites, including rural and remote locations.
Requirements
- 2+ years of hands-on experience in outside plant fiber optic splicing, preferably in FTTH/FTTP network construction or maintenance.
- Proficient in fusion splicing techniques for large fiber-count cables.
- Demonstrated ability to test, troubleshoot, and certify fiber optic spans using OTDR and other industry-standard test equipment.
- Strong working knowledge of fiber optic network architecture, splice closures, terminals, and cable types used in FTTH deployments.
- Ability to read and interpret construction prints, splicing diagrams, and fiber routing documentation.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently in the field.
- Willingness and ability to be on call, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by business needs.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical/vocational training in fiber optics or telecommunications preferred.
- Industry certifications (e.g., BICSI, Certified Fiber Optic Technician/Specialist) preferred but not required.
Qualifications
- Experience with splicing equipment for high-count fiber cables.
- Familiarity with GIS/mapping tools and fiber management systems.
- Prior experience in a telecommunications, ISP, or utility construction environment.
Skills
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and varying terrain.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.; climb ladders and work from aerial lifts/bucket trucks if required.
- Ability to work in confined spaces (vaults, hand holes) and at heights as required.
- Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and perform fine motor tasks (splicing) for extended periods.
- Willingness to travel to job sites across the assigned service area, including rural/remote locations.
- Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and respond to emergency on-call situations.
Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Retirement plan options with employer matching
Professional development opportunities
Stable and growing regional company environment
Pay
Competitive salary based on experience
Schedule
This is a full-time position with a variable work schedule based on business and operational needs. Employees must be available to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and non-standard shifts as required. On-call participation is required, including responding to after-hours emergency call-outs. Work schedules may be adjusted at management's discretion to support field operations, customer service demands, project deadlines, emergency restoration efforts, and other business needs. Flexibility in scheduling is an essential function of this position.