Outside Plant - Project Manager

OSP Project Manager

Summary

The OSP Project Manager is responsible for directing, coordinating, and managing outside plant (OSP) construction projects—including fiber installation, OSP infrastructure builds, and technology deployments. This role oversees both the administrative and field aspects of projects, ensuring they are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards. The OSP Project Manager acts as the link between field supervisors, construction teams, customers, vendors, and leadership.

This position requires strong leadership, technical knowledge of OSP processes, budget management experience, and extensive field coordination.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Compliance

- Values safety above all else; ensures safety is prioritized over production at all times.

- Ensures on site compliance with OSHA, company safety programs, and quality standards.

- Works closely with field supervisors to maintain safe, orderly, and compliant job sites.

- Tracking and reporting project progress to Client.

- Attending scheduled meetings for status and challenges of the project.

- Estimating and preparing proposals as new projects develop.

Project Planning & Management

- Works with superintendents, OSP field supervisors, and construction managers to plan, organize, and direct project activities.

- Establishes project objectives, procedures, and performance standards within company policy and contract specifications.

- Creates and manages project schedules, ensuring timeline adherence.

- Interprets plans, drawings, specifications, schematics, and contract terms for staff and subcontractors.

- Coordinates and requisitions materials, equipment, and subcontractors

Field Oversight & Communication

- Leads communication between administrative staff, field supervisors, customers, inspectors, and stakeholders.

- Oversees all on site work through field supervisors; monitors progress, costs, and resource utilization.

- Addresses and resolves construction problems, schedule delays, and field issues.

- Maintains liaison with owners, inspectors, and authorities for project approvals.

- Reviews daily field reports, RFIs, field orders, and production updates.

Financial & Reporting

- Works with Program Manager/VP to manage financial aspects of contracts.

- Ensures projects remain within budget; identifies risks and mitigation measures.

- Tracks work progress, costs, production, and scheduling; prepares detailed project reports.

- Represents the company in customer meetings and strategy sessions

Leadership

- Sets clear expectations and provides mentorship to on site teams.

- Ensures field personnel have required training, certifications, and tools.

- Supervises construction crews when necessary.

Other Duties

- Performs additional responsibilities as assigned to support company and project objectives.

Physical Demands

- Ability to bend, squat, climb, kneel, and lift 20–50 lbs regularly.

- Must be able to work indoors/outdoors in all weather conditions.

- Must be able to travel frequently (30–70% depending on project load).

- Must pass background, drug testing, and any required safety or DOT screening.

- Must possess a valid driver’s license (CDL a plus).

Minimum Qualifications

Technical Skills

- Proven experience in OSP management.

- Understanding of OSP procedures, fiber installation processes, OTDR testing, splicing basics, and RUS specifications.

- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, diagrams, testing procedures, and job specifications.

- Strong knowledge of construction means and methods.

- Familiarity with construction management software.

Soft Skills

- Strong leadership and team building skills.

- Effective verbal and written communication with staff, clients, and stakeholders.

- Skilled in conflict resolution, crisis management, and problem solving.

- Ability to plan both strategically and tactically; able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

- Strong time management and organizational ability.

Education & Experience Required:

- High school diploma or GED.

- 5+ years of experience in OSP, fiber, or telecommunications construction management.

Preferred:

- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or

related field.

- 5–10 years of OSP installation or field construction experience.

- Related trade school education.

- Industry safety, rescue, or technical certifications.

Supervisory Responsibilities

- Direct supervision of OSP field supervisors and/or construction crews.

- Leadership responsibility for on site personnel and subcontractors.

Work Schedule

- Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with overtime as required.

- Travel required based on project needs.

EEO Statement

CMS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CMS complies with

applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

CMS expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of CMS’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.