What are the responsibilities and job description for the JDH -Fiber Field Engineer position at JDH CONTRACTING INC?
Job Summary
The Fiber Optic OSP (Outside Plant) Field Engineer is responsible for the design support, coordination, and field verification of fiber optic outside plant construction projects. This role works closely with project managers, ISPs, municipalities, and utility companies to support the successful deployment of fiber infrastructure. The position requires hands-on field experience with aerial and underground fiber systems, utility locating, and a strong understanding of standard fiber optic construction practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform field engineering duties for aerial and underground fiber optic OSP projects
- Conduct site surveys, route verification, and constructability reviews
- Verify proper installation of aerial fiber (strand, lash, pole attachments, clearance requirements)
- Verify proper installation of underground fiber (conduit, duct, direct-buried, handholes, vaults)
- Coordinate with utility companies for pole access, make-ready work, and underground utility conflicts
- Use underground utility locating equipment and interpret utility markings to mitigate damage risk
- Review and understand utility locates, as-builts, and existing infrastructure records
- Ensure adherence to standard fiber optic construction practices, including bend radius, pulling tensions, slack storage, and labeling
- Support ISP network builds, including backbone, distribution, and access network construction
- Interface with data center operations teams as needed for fiber entrances, meet-me rooms, and interconnects
- Identify and document field issues, change conditions, and required design revisions
- Maintain accurate field documentation, redlines, and as-built records
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company safety policies
- Participate in project meetings and provide field updates to project management
Qualifications:
Required Knowledge & Skills
- Strong knowledge of fiber optic OSP construction methods and industry best practices
- Experience with both aerial and underground fiber optic construction
- Experience using underground utility locating equipment
- Understanding of underground utility systems (power, gas, water, sewer, telecom)
- Familiarity with ISP network architectures (backbone, distribution, last-mile access)
- Basic understanding of data center operations and fiber connectivity
- Ability to read and interpret fiber design drawings, permits, and construction documents
- Knowledge of NESC, NEC, and local utility standards related to fiber construction
- Familiarity with fiber splicing environments, closures, handholes, and fiber management systems
- Strong problem-solving skills in field environments
- Effective communication skills with internal teams and external stakeholders
Qualifications
- 3 years of experience in fiber optic OSP construction or field engineering
- Experience working with ISPs, telecom carriers, or utility providers
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with GIS mapping and as-built documentation
- Experience supporting data center connectivity projects
- Knowledge of permitting processes and right-of-way requirements
- Familiarity with SPANS or other electric utility compliance, attachment, or asset management systems