Manager of Field Network Engineering

Job Summary:

The Field Network Engineering Manager will lead the deployment, maintenance, and operational

support of the regional FTTH and IP/MPLS networks. This role includes oversight of ROADM-

based Access and Metro networks, XGS PON, GPON, Fixed Wireless Access, IP/MPLS network, cabinet and facility maintenance and other critical network infrastructures. The Manager will drive strategic planning, team development, and ensure the efficient execution of network operations. Responsibilities include deploying to standard and integrating as built where unique objectives require it. The primary objective of FNE team is to turn the network up on time, support large scalable networks through standard deployments, and consistent well engineered network monitoring solutions, and implementing simple redundancy schemes. Our measured goal is to achieve service availability to run at 99.95%. As a team leader you are expected to model the behaviors of do whatever it takes when the job calls for it. You will grow a culture for CO FNE team and act as a mentorship to 3 subordinate engineers on the FNE team. This role will collaborate closely with cross-functional departments in OSP construction (new fiber constructed passings), OSP Maintenance (fiber or plant break fix), and Field Technicians supporting new installs.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy:

o Lead, coach, and mentor a team of network engineers to deliver high-quality field network deployment, on-call rotations for 24x7 troubleshooting, break-fix and support services of network and facilities related problems - IP/PON/Ethernet/FWA/TDM/DC Power/Generator/etc.

o Develop and implement strategic plans for network expansions, upgrades, and

lifecycle management to meet the organization's objectives. Including cabinet and facility pro-active maintenance, software and hardware upgrades as necessary.

o Foster a culture of continuous improvement by driving innovation in network

design and operational practices. The ideal candidate will be aware of and strive for AI ops tools and capabilities.

o Ensure team is responsive and customer-service oriented to all internal and

external escalations, local leadership, OSP construction, etc.

Engineering Oversight:

o Oversee the implementation and maintenance of PON and Ethernet transport

services for residential and commercial customers.

o Provide subject matter expertise on flow through provisioning between BSS/OSS and access network infrastructure

o Provide guidance in the troubleshooting and resolution of complex IP network

systems and equipment issues, including LAN/WAN systems, routers, servers,

and switches.

Operational Excellence:

o Review and approve work order documentation, including Methods of Procedure

(MOP) for network deployments and upgrades as well as Post Incident Response (PIR) generation and follow through.

o Maintain comprehensive and up-to-date documentation of network infrastructure,

ensuring accuracy across all records.

• Ensure team has all the proper tools to succeed - tooling, training, trucks, and materials to support the job function and remote on-call response when maintaining a network across broad geography (Grand Junction, Bailey, Pueblo, Colorado City, South Park).

o Evaluate and recommend resources (hardware, software, training) necessary to

enhance service delivery.

o Ensure all network gear is fully 'operationalized' with appropriate standard

configurations, security and access settings, full telemetry support for network

monitoring ensuring all devices are fully managed in EMS/NMS, documentation,

network inventory updated in appropriate inventory management systems.

Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing:

o Act as a liaison between engineering teams and executive leadership to

communicate progress, challenges, and opportunities.

o Promote knowledge sharing by facilitating the exchange of best practices and

lessons learned across the team and organization.

o Represent the department in cross-functional meetings to align network

operations with organizational goals.

Performance Management:

o Analyze network performance metrics and make data-driven decisions to improve

reliability, efficiency, and scalability. Identify trends and leading indicators to solve problems before they become service affecting.

o Manage vendor relationships and oversee the procurement of network equipment

and services.

o Conduct performance reviews for team members, providing constructive feedback

and identify opportunities for professional growth.

Required Skills & Experience:

• 8 years of experience in telecommunications and network engineering. Field experience preferred maintaining and operating networks in rural broadband.
• Exceptional troubleshooting skillset in highly complex network environments
• In-depth knowledge of PON, IP/MPLS, and optical transport technologies.
• Experience with DC plant technologies, solar infrastructure a plus
• Expertise in networking standards and protocols, including Layer 0-4 technologies (e.g.VLANs, MPLS, BGP, TCP/UDP).
• Experience with network automation tools such as Ansible and proficiency in scripting languages like Python or Perl is a plus.
• Experience with automation workflows like power automate, n8n,
• Strong project management skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Project and Visio.
• Exceptional communication, time management, and interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds if necessary.
• Must pass pre-employment screenings, including drug and background checks.

Highline Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.