Telecom Field Operations Technician - Fiber
JOB SUMMARY:
The Telecom Field Operations Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance (reactive and preventive), and project support for Southern Company's voice, data, and telecommunications transport networks. These networks include digital microwave, fiber optics, LANs (local area networks), voice, data, and wireless systems. These systems are installed, maintained, and repaired following established standards, service levels, operational processes, and applicable work agreements.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education & Experience:
- A two-year degree (college/technical/vocational) in an electronics technology field or telecommunications field, equivalent military training, or five (5) years of equivalent hands-on experience in an electronics technology or telecommunications field is required.
- Understanding the various topologies, e.g., telecommunications (microwave and/or fiber), wireless, data networks, voice networks, and how they interface.
- Ability to logically troubleshoot and repair hardware and software associated with telecommunications (microwave and/or fiber) systems, data networks, voice networks, and ancillary equipment (alarm systems, DC/AC power systems, etc.).
- Working knowledge of radio communication systems. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or equivalent license for radio repair is preferred.
Technical Competencies:
- Responsible for the installation, maintenance (reactive and preventive), and project support of the Southern Company Fiber, Data, Voice, and Telecommunications transport networks.
- Responsible for interfacing with and coordinating contractors and/or vendors associated with the FO function as appropriate.
- Responsible for interfacing with the internal business partners, vendors, contractors, and other Technology Organization (TO) groups related to problem resolution and equipment installations.
- Responsible for understanding and adhering to billing and performance processes and procedures.
- Responsible for maintaining accurate circuit documentation and equipment inventories for assigned jobs.
- Responsible for installing standard, endorsed, or certified off-the-shelf software and/or hardware devices.
Technical Competencies (Fiber Optic Specific)
- Proficient with Optical Time-Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs).
- Proficient with splicing and terminating single-mode and multimode fiber optic cables.
- Experience with Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) of various types. (e.g., stainless steel tube, tight buffer tube, star, etc.).
- Experience with All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) and other aerial fiber optic cables.
- Knowledge of associated line hardware and accessories to secure ADSS and OPGW fiber.
- Experience with Preformed Line Products (PLP) and Alcoa splice cans.
- Experience with transporting fiber optic splice trailers and reel trailers.
- Experience documenting fiber optic route information (traces, power levels, splice points, etc.).
- Ability to work extended hours during emergency restoration.
General Competencies:
- Must take and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, be a self-starter, and have excellent time management skills.
- Ability to interface with, direct, and coordinate contractors as needed.
- Must have good verbal and written communication skills.
- Follows safe work practices and fosters a safe workplace.
- All business dealings exhibit Southern Company Values (Safety First, Unquestionable Trust, Superior Performance, and Total Commitment).
- Seeks opportunities to learn and transfer knowledge to others.
- Responsible for supporting 24x7 on-call operations.
- Ability to drive long distances, walk on uneven surfaces, climb ladders, work above shoulder height and on occasion above fifty feet (50’), and the ability to lift at least 50lbs.