RURALBAND, a Prince George Electric Cooperative (PGEC) subsidiary, is looking for an experienced Fiber Optic Field Technician. RURALBAND continues to grow while providing "world-class" fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband internet service and voice over IP (VoIP) telephone service inside and outside of the PGEC service territory.
The Fiber Optic Field Technician reports to the Maintenance Supervisor and is responsible for completing assigned tasks pertaining to the construction and maintenance of the fiber optic system. This position will provide the necessary support to maintain a complete fiber communications network capable of gigabit speeds to every location. Fiber Optic Field Technician must understand fiber splicing diagrams, fiber network design, and fiber construction. Additionally, this position is responsible for responding to outage situations during and after hours.
· Completes fiber optic fusion splicing, splicing single count, up to, but not limited to, 144 count fiber optic cable.
· Responds to outage situations, safely and effectively troubleshooting the active outage, making the necessary repairs required to restore service in a timely manner.
· Repairs or installs fiber optic cable using the aid of ladders and bucket trucks and must be able to conduct work at elevated heights.
· Performs work as a Lineman (according to the level of classification), being proficient in overhead and underground work while following safety guidelines set forth.
· Complete in-home fiber-optic service installations, capable of provisioning ONTs, and verifying connectivity with appropriate speeds while ensuring member satisfaction.
· Maintains accurate records of the fiber optic system using NISC and spreadsheets (to include adequate notes)
· Communicates with internal stakeholders, including the Maintenance Supervisor, the Fiber Network Engineer, the Warehouse Manager, and the Fiber Design Engineer ensuring all operations operate smoothly.
· Communicates verbally and in writing to the Maintenance Supervisor any issues that may arise from time to time, impacting the project's overall performance.
· Associates degree preferred minimum high school diploma or GED equivalent required. Experience may be substituted for education.
. Required minimum of one year of experience splicing and troubleshooting of a fiber optic network.
· Be familiar with deploying a fiber-optic network and maintenance practices, industry safety practices; OSHA safety requirements; and the National Electrical Safety Code.
· Must have the ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
· Must have good interpersonal and customer relations skills.
· Must be able to test fiber using an Optical Time Domain (OTDR), power meters, light source, and light identifying testers.
. Must possess the ability to operate single fusion splicers.
· Must be able to study and learn new procedures or methods and apply that knowledge to job responsibilities.
· Must be able to read and understand splice diagrams as provided.
. Must have the ability to terminate with pig tails.
· Must have general PC abilities, including Microsoft Office and tablet operating skills.
· Must be able to operate and navigate electronic maps.
. Must possess a valid Virginia Class A Commercial Driver's License.
· The position requires occasional lifting to 50 pounds. This position will also require working at elevated heights. The position requires the ability to work in hot and cold environments during and after regular working hours. Visual & audio acuity are essential functions of this position.
· < 25% of travel outside of RURALBAND service territory for mutual aid support when required. Possible overnight travel for meetings or training. Must maintain a valid driver's license and operate company vehicles safely and courteously.
Prince George Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.