The Fiber Construction Manager is responsible for overseeing all phases of fiber optic construction, including aerial, underground, and inside plant deployments. This role ensures that all projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with engineering designs, permitting requirements, and safety standards. The ideal candidate has a strong background in fiber installation and splicing, field inspections, and project coordination with internal teams and external vendors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage multiple fiber construction projects simultaneously across aerial, underground, small cell, and customer premises environments.
- Conduct independent field inspections to verify construction quality and adherence to design specifications and permit conditions.
- Coordinate with Fiber Engineers, Field Operations, and subcontractors for seamless project execution.
- Manage and communicate with external vendors, ensuring timelines, budgets, and contract deliverables are met.
- Review and interpret construction drawings, blueprints, splice schematics, and fiber testing results (OTDR, Power Meter).
- Prepare and manage construction bid packages; evaluate vendor proposals and negotiate project costs.
- Oversee the development and submission of permitting plans and coordinate closely with local and state agencies to obtain necessary licenses and approvals.
- Track delivery of third-party materials and ensure inventory is aligned with project needs.
- Maintain detailed project documentation in tracking systems (e.g., milestone updates, change orders, field audits).
- Serve as the on-site Quality Assurance and Safety representative, enforcing company and OSHA-compliant safety protocols.
- Provide regular project updates to leadership, internal stakeholders, and clients on progress, risks, and mitigation plans.
- Analyze and monitor construction budgets and vendor performance; resolve any discrepancies or delays impacting timeline or cost.
- Utilize tools like Google Earth, Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Visio) for project reporting and field documentation.
- Apply strong knowledge of pole/conduit licensing, municipal permitting, and utility regulations relevant to fiber deployment.
Qualifications:
- Required: Proven experience in fiber construction, including aerial and underground builds (tower experience not applicable).
- Strong knowledge of OSP construction practices, fiber splicing, and fiber testing (OTDR, Power Meter, etc.).
- Ability to read and interpret construction blueprints and technical schematics.
- Familiarity with local and state permitting processes, including pole and conduit licensing from utility companies.
- Field experience in audits, inspections, and photo verification of fiber construction work.
- Experience with construction cost estimating, vendor negotiations, and bid management.
- Excellent project management, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Visio), Google Earth, Adobe Acrobat, and web-based project tracking tools.
- Understanding of construction safety regulations and standards.
Education & Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certifications or associate's degree in Telecommunications, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 5+ years of experience in fiber optic construction management or similar roles in the telecommunications industry.