Fiber Construction Designer

The Network Construction Manager – Fiber Construction is responsible for overseeing outside plant (OSP) and inside plant (ISP) fiber optic cable construction projects in aerial and underground environments. This role requires strong knowledge of local and state permitting processes, pole attachment and conduit licensing procedures, and the ability to manage multiple projects and contractors simultaneously.

From project qualification and design through punch-list and closeout, the Fiber Construction Manager ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with company and customer specifications.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Construction Management

• Partner closely with Fiber Engineers to support design, constructability, and project execution.
• Conduct constructability reviews to ensure alignment with project scope and technical specifications.
• Develop comprehensive Construction Bid Packages and manage competitive bidding processes.
• Oversee subcontractor selection, negotiation, and performance management.
• Manage full lifecycle of construction projects from initiation through close-out and final acceptance.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project tracking documentation and reporting systems.

Permitting & Regulatory Coordination

• Manage development and submission of permit applications and construction plans.
• Coordinate construction activities with local municipalities, state agencies, and utility providers.
• Ensure compliance with pole attachment agreements, conduit licensing, and right-of-way requirements.
• Maintain working knowledge of NESC, NEC, OSHA, and other applicable safety and regulatory standards.

Vendor & Budget Management

• Manage third-party vendors and contractors to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Order, track, and manage delivery of third-party materials.
• Understand prevailing market rates and negotiate competitive pricing for construction services.
• Monitor project costs and proactively identify potential budget impacts.
• Communicate cost risks, schedule delays, and scope changes to project stakeholders.
• Hold vendors accountable for performance, safety, and quality standards.

Field Oversight & Quality Assurance

• Provide on-site construction oversight to ensure compliance with safety standards and workmanship practices.
• Act as safety observer and quality assurance representative during site visits.
• Troubleshoot on-site issues and implement solutions to maintain project schedule and budget.
• Ensure all work adheres to company construction standards, processes, and procedures.

Communication & Reporting

• Attend internal and customer status meetings.
• Provide regular milestone updates and performance reporting to leadership and project teams.
• Maintain clear communication across engineering, construction, and service delivery teams.

Required Education & Certifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree in a technical field or equivalent work experience preferred
• Valid driver’s license required

Required Experience

• 1–3 years of construction experience
• 1–3 years of direct telecommunications experience
• 3+ years of supervisory experience managing construction contractors preferred
• Experience with Outside Plant (OSP) construction techniques (aerial and underground) preferred

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Working knowledge of OSP/ISP fiber construction practices
• Familiarity with fiber testing and validation tools including:
• OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer)
• Optical Power Meter
• Grounding and Bonding Tests
• RF Sweep Testing
• Passive Intermodulation (PIM) Testing
• Knowledge of NESC, NEC, and OSHA safety standards
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio)
• PMP certification is a plus