Job Description:
An Outside Plant (OSP) Fiber Optic Manager is responsible for the overall planning, design, construction, and maintenance of a telecommunications company's fiber optic network infrastructure outside of buildings. This includes supervising field crews and contractors, managing project budgets and schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
Responsibilities:
Project and operations management: Oversee daily OSP activities, including trenching, boring, conduit installation, and aerial and underground fiber placement. Manage schedules, requisition materials, and create and manage budgets to ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget.
Team leadership: Lead and direct project managers, engineers, and construction crews. Conduct training, performance reviews, and mentorship to promote professional development.
Vendor and contractor management: Negotiate and oversee contracts with subcontractors and material vendors to meet project specifications and budget.
Safety and quality assurance: Implement and enforce safety protocols and ensure all work is compliant with company, OSHA, and other regulatory standards. Conduct regular site inspections and audits to verify the integrity and quality of installations.
Documentation and reporting: Maintain accurate project records, including construction schedules, progress reports, permits, and "as-built" documentation of network infrastructure.
Technical support and troubleshooting: Act as a point of escalation for field issues, coordinate emergency repairs, and conduct root cause analysis for service outages.
Cross-functional collaboration: Work closely with engineering, finance, operations, and sales and marketing teams. Coordinate with local utilities, government agencies, and private landowners to obtain necessary permits and right-of-way access.
Qualifications
Experience:
Typically requires 5 or more years of experience in OSP construction or project management within the telecommunications industry, with a focus on fiber optics. Experience with both aerial and underground installation methods is often required.
Education:
A bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is often preferred, but relevant experience and certifications may substitute.
Technical knowledge:
Fiber Optics: In-depth knowledge of fiber optic network design, construction, splicing, and testing.
Construction Methods: Proficiency in various OSP construction techniques, such as directional boring, trenching, and conduit installation.
Software:
Familiarity with project management software, GIS platforms for network mapping, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Certifications:
Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT), or OSHA safety certifications are often desirable.
Soft skills:
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
