Project and Network Infrastructure Manager

The Project and Network Infrastructure Manager is responsible for the design, implementation, management, and maintenance of both Outside Plant (OSP) and Inside Plant (ISP) Layer 1 network infrastructure. This role requires an in-depth understanding of telecommunications, fiber optics, and cable infrastructure. The Project and Network Infrastructure Manager will lead a team of technicians and engineers, oversee projects, and ensure adherence to all relevant industry standards and safety regulations.

Detailed Cable Plant Responsibilities

Cable Plant Design & Layout:

• Develop detailed layouts and schematics for the cable plant infrastructure, including routing and distribution of cables across the OSP and ISP environments.
• Design pathways for fiber optic and copper cables, ensuring alignment with structural, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Plan the positioning of cable terminations, splices, and junctions to optimize performance and minimize signal degradation.

Installation & Termination:

• Oversee the installation and termination of various cable types (e.g., fiber optic, twisted-pair, coaxial) within the cable plant.
• Establish precise procedures for cable labeling, color coding, and termination, ensuring easy identification and adherence to documentation standards.
• Coordinate with field technicians for precise routing, splicing, and termination of cables, particularly in complex or high-density environments.
• Implement strict quality control standards for all cabling work, inspecting installations for adherence to specifications and identifying issues such as improper bends or exposed cables.

Documentation & Mapping:

• Maintain up-to-date and detailed documentation of the cable plant, including as-built diagrams, cable routes, and splice points.
• Create and manage digital maps of cable infrastructure using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software, allowing for easy tracking of network layout.
• Keep inventory and records of cable types, lengths, and materials used in installations, which can support maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting.
• Standards & Compliance:
• Ensure that all cable plant installations conform to industry standards such as ANSI/TIA-568, ANSI/TIA-942, and other local building codes.
• Implement safety protocols to prevent accidents during installation and maintenance, particularly in confined spaces.
• Stay up-to-date on emerging cable plant standards and best practices, adapting installation processes as required.

Cable Plant Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Schedule and oversee routine inspections of the cable plant, identifying and addressing wear, degradation, or environmental damage.
• Implement strategies for cable plant redundancy to ensure continuous network service, including the use of diverse routing paths.
• Manage repairs or replacements for damaged cables and hardware, coordinating with internal teams and external contractors as needed.

Project Management Responsibilities:

Project Planning & Scope Definition:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define the project scope, objectives, and deliverables for network infrastructure projects.
• Develop detailed project plans that include timelines, milestones, resource requirements, risk assessments, and budget allocations.
• Establish project goals and metrics for success, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

Budgeting & Cost Management:

• Prepare accurate budget estimates, covering materials, labor, equipment, and any outsourced services.
• Monitor project expenses to control costs effectively, identifying areas for cost savings without compromising quality.
• Regularly report on budget status, addressing any variances proactively to avoid cost overruns.

Resource Allocation & Team Coordination:

• Assign resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure efficient project execution.
• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and contractors, facilitating clear communication and collaboration.
• Identify any gaps in resources and address them by adjusting schedules, reallocating staff, or hiring additional support as needed.

Vendor and Contractor Management:

• Select and manage relationships with vendors and contractors, ensuring they meet project specifications, timelines, and quality standards.
• Oversee vendor and contractor performance, addressing issues promptly to keep projects on track.
• Negotiate contracts and manage service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure compliance with project requirements.

Timeline and Milestone Tracking:

• Develop and monitor project schedules, setting realistic milestones and deadlines.
• Utilize project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Prim, or similar) to track progress and update timelines as necessary.
• Conduct regular project status meetings to review milestones, address bottlenecks, and keep stakeholders informed of progress.

Essential Functions

• Infrastructure Design & Planning: Develop and manage comprehensive OSP and ISP network designs, including fiber optic and cabling layouts for new projects and upgrades.
• Project Management: Oversee project timelines, budget, and scope. Manage the full lifecycle of OSP/ISP projects from planning through execution and final inspection.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of technicians and engineers, assigning tasks and ensuring team members have the resources needed to succeed.
• Standards & Compliance: Ensure all OSP/ISP network installations meet company standards and adhere to safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance. -
• Vendor Management: Coordinate with vendors and contractors to procure materials, manage contracts, and ensure work is completed to specifications.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of network infrastructure, project progress, and inventory. Provide regular reports on network performance, issues, and project status.
• Network Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Oversee preventative maintenance, inspections, and troubleshooting of network infrastructure to ensure high availability and minimal downtime.
• Cost Control: Monitor expenses and manage budget allocations, looking for opportunities to optimize costs without compromising quality.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of Bachelor's Degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, or related field or the equivalent combination of education and work experience.
  • Please review the Equivalency Chart for additional information.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in OSP/ISP network infrastructure design, implementation, and management.
• Strong understanding of telecommunications infrastructure, including fiber optic networks, cabling standards, and network hardware.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or other design software and GIS mapping tools.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., NEC, TIA/EIA, OSHA).
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing cross-functional teams.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Understanding of structured cabling systems and network protocols.
• Familiarity with utility right-of-way regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project management experience, with a PMP certification preferred.

Physical Demands

• Typically sitting at a desk/table
Lifting demands
• 50lbs

Location

• University City - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

This position is classified as an exempt grade M. Compensation for this grade ranges from $90,430 to $135,640 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position typically aligns with the minimum to midrange of this grade, but it can vary based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

We encourage you to explore Drexel's Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on our compensation framework.

You can also find valuable information about our benefits in the Benefits Brochure.

Special Instructions to the Applicant

Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.