OSP Engineer I

Position Summary

Supports the planning, design, documentation, and field verification of outside plant (OSP) telecommunications infrastructure. Performs entry-level engineering assignments using established standards, procedures, and engineering practices under the guidance of experienced engineers or supervisory personnel. Develops proficiency in OSP design, construction methods, permitting requirements, mapping systems, and company engineering standards.

Primary focus: Develop foundational engineering knowledge while supporting the execution of established OSP engineering processes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with the design and documentation of aerial, buried, and underground outside plant (OSP) transport, distribution, and customer access facilities using established company standards and engineering direction.
• Prepare and update routine work orders, construction prints, route plans, material lists, splice plans, distribution counts, cut sheets, and cutover documents for review by an experienced engineer or supervisor.
• Assist with fiber optic system documentation, including cable routes, OLTs, splitters, hubs, cabinets, handholes, duct, and related facilities.
• Conduct assigned site surveys and field investigations; document existing facilities, proposed routes, construction conditions, and potential conflicts.
• Assist with project cost estimates, labor and material calculations, and project documentation for construction, maintenance, customer requests, and grant-related work.
• Maintain and update OSP records, maps, schematics, GIS data, facility information, and as-built documentation using the company's existing mapping, GIS, engineering, and network systems.
• Assist with work orders, cable transfers, facility changes, permit applications, easements, rights-of-way, and joint-use documentation.
• Support construction inspections and verify completed work against approved plans and work orders; elevate discrepancies or compliance concerns to the appropriate engineer or supervisor.
• Coordinate routine information gathering with contractors, vendors, municipalities, utilities, property owners, and other agencies as directed.
• Assist with documenting network changes, test results, service activations, and field conditions.
• Develop working knowledge of applicable RUS, NESC, NEC, OSHA, and company requirements and follow established safety practices.
• Learn and use company engineering and mapping software and tools, which may include NISC, CAD, ESRI/ArcGIS, Field Maps, Trimble GPS, or comparable systems.
• Provide responsive support to field personnel and other departments and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required / expected qualifications:

• Associate degree, bachelor's degree, in engineering, telecommunications, construction management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and 0-2 years of experience.
• Technical training, or equivalent practical experience in telecommunications, engineering technology, construction, GIS, or a related field is preferred.
• Basic understanding of fiber optics, OSP construction methods, telecommunications facilities, and technical drawings, or demonstrated ability to learn these areas.
• Ability to read maps, plans, schematics, and work orders and maintain accurate records.
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn company mapping, GIS, and engineering software.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel within company service territories, as required.
• Ability to organize assigned work, communicate clearly, follow direction, and ask for guidance when issues exceed current experience.

Physical Requirements

The position requires the ability to work in office and field environments. Duties may require standing, walking, climbing, stooping, kneeling, working at heights or in confined spaces, and working in varying weather and construction conditions. The employee must be able to read engineering documents, maps, schematics, and computer displays and use standard office, field, and testing equipment. Lifting and carrying requirements should be confirmed by HR based on the actual duties and essential functions of the position.

Work Environment

Work is performed in office and field settings, including remote telecommunications facilities and construction sites. Travel throughout company service territories may be required. The position may involve exposure to outdoor weather, construction activities, energized equipment, and other telecommunications field conditions.

Other Duties

The responsibilities listed describe the general nature and level of work and are not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties may be modified as business needs evolve