What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead, Fiber Technician position at xai?
ABOUT xAI
xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a Lead, Fiber Technician at xAI’s Memphis data center, you will take ownership of fiber optic infrastructure projects and lead a team of technicians in installing, maintaining, and optimizing high-performance network connectivity. You’ll combine deep technical expertise with leadership skills to ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and uptime in a fast-paced, hyperscale environment. Working onsite with passionate teams, you’ll drive complex fiber deployments, mentor junior technicians, troubleshoot critical issues, and help build the robust backbone that powers xAI’s mission to accelerate human scientific discovery through AI.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead and mentor a team of Fiber Technicians while working under the guidance of the Foreman Supervisor, Project Manager, and Superintendent
- Manage all phases of datacenter fiber optic installation projects from planning through execution and handover
- Ensure a safe, productive, and high-quality work environment for the entire team
- Oversee the development of sensor indicators and conduct timely inspections to maintain optimal fiber optic system performance
- Troubleshoot, resolve, repair, and install complex fiber optics systems
- Examine and replace faulty or aging fiber optic cables
- Organize and optimize scheduled maintenance routines
- Lead fiber splicing activities and resolve fiber optic problem areas
- Monitor and maintain signal strength across devices and infrastructure
- Formulate, maintain, and improve system records, documentation, and system designs
- Provide technical guidance, training, and quality assurance for all fiber-related work
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 4 years of direct data center experience installing and routing optical fiber in large-scale Tier 3 or 4 facilities
- Previous experience leading or mentoring fiber optic technicians
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Certification in fiber optics and/or cable installation (e.g., FOA, BICSI)
- Extensive experience in fiber splicing and OTDR testing
- Strong technical knowledge of communication networks and hyperscale data center environments
- Experience installing, certifying, and troubleshooting fiber in hyperscale or AI/HPC data centers
- Knowledge of structured cabling systems
- Proficiency with computers and associated electronic systems
- Deep knowledge of different fiber types (single-mode, multi-mode, etc.)
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects and teams while maintaining high safety and quality standards
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to work in tight quarters with necessary physical dexterity
- Ability to lift up to 35lbs, unassisted
- Comfortable working at elevated heights (up to 50 feet) with appropriate safety gear
- Comfortable working in environments with high noise levels
- Available to work evenings and weekends as needed; schedule flexibility is required
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