Fiber Optic and Copper Cable Technician

Company Overview: Windstream Holdings, Inc. stands as a premier provider of sophisticated network communication and technology solutions tailored for consumers, small enterprises, large organizations, and carrier partners throughout the United States.

• Under the Kinetic brand, Windstream delivers bundled offerings, which encompass high-speed broadband, security services, voice solutions, and digital television through an enhanced fiber optic network.
• Windstream Enterprise excels as a managed services provider, offering strategic communication and security products to mid-sized businesses and large corporate clients.
• Windstream Wholesale specializes in delivering high-capacity, high-performance networking solutions and services to telecom carriers, data centers, content providers, and enterprises.

The Windstream team is dedicated to providing innovative software and network solutions that connect individuals and empower businesses in a realm of limitless opportunities.

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Position Overview: The Fiber Optic and Copper Cable Technician is tasked with splicing various sizes of fiber optic and copper cables in both outdoor and indoor environments. Responsibilities include reading, creating, and maintaining splicing schematics and diagrams; overseeing outside plant (OSP) activities related to assigned work sites while supporting project timelines; ensuring crew safety by providing guidance on procedures, road safety, manhole safety, and general project oversight; attending safety meetings as required; and maintaining daily records (fiber route details, slack locations, splice locations, and updating drawings) with any modifications. Additional duties involve managing material inventory, conducting DOT vehicle inspections, and performing other assigned tasks related to outside plant construction. The role may require work on weekends, holidays, standby, unscheduled hours, and overtime, with travel expectations potentially exceeding 50% of the year based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform splicing of cables using hand tools, epoxy, or mechanical equipment as necessary.
• Splice fiber optic and copper cables, including both loose tube and ribbon optic cables.
• Construct appropriate splice cases, ensuring proper grounding, bonding, isolation, slack storage, and sealing.
• Prepare and maintain accurate splicing records, schematics, and diagrams.
• Interpret staking sheets and blueprints effectively.
• Execute work in compliance with industry standards and RUS regulations.
• Participate in engineering, permitting, and construction processes to support project contracts as needed.
• Measure signal strength at utility poles using electronic testing equipment.
• Inspect or test lines or cables, documenting and analyzing test results to evaluate transmission characteristics and identify faults or malfunctions.
• Conduct routine maintenance and address route issues, including hand hole cleanup, sign placement, and weed control as required.
• Complete outside plant construction tasks and other assigned work.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 pounds.
• Capability to work in all weather conditions year-round.
• Experience working in confined spaces and at heights.
• Availability for an on-call schedule rotation, including days, nights, overnights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as necessary.
• Valid driver's license and minimum qualifications to obtain a CDL.
• Ability to pass DOT certification.
• Willingness to travel.
• Exceptional time management and attention to detail for accurate and timely paperwork completion.

Desired Qualifications:

• Five or more years of experience, including pole climbing.
• Completion of OSHA 10 Hour Safety Course and Buck Squeeze (Pole Climbing Certifications).
• Proficiency in operating various construction equipment.
• One year of experience in copper and/or fiber cable splicing or related Trade School certification in lieu of one year of experience.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing: Continuously 67-100%
• Walking: Continuously 67-100%
• Climbing: Continuously 67-100%
• Bending: Continuously 67-100%
• Carrying: Continuously 67-100%
• Driving: Occasionally 0-33% for Car and CMV; Continuously 67-100% for Van.

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Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Plans.
• 401K Plan.
• Health & Flexible Savings Account.
• Life and AD&D, Spousal Life, and Child Life Insurance Plans.
• Educational Assistance Plan.
• Identity Theft, Legal, Auto & Home, and Pet Insurance.

Windstream CIB Statement:

Connecting individuals in a world of infinite possibilities, Windstream fosters a workplace culture where innovation and belonging are the cornerstones of our success. We are committed to empowering every team member to contribute their unique talents and perspectives, creating an environment where creativity and innovation thrive. Together, we aim to build a more inclusive and connected future, both within our organization and in the wider community we serve.

Employee Resource Groups:

• WinVets – Veteran Employee Resource Group.
• WOW – Women Employee Resource Group.
• WINPRIDE – LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group.
• WBPN – Black Professional Resource Group.
• WARG – Ability Resource Group.
• LaFamilia – Hispanic Resource Group.
• AAPI - Asian American Pacific Islander Resource Group.

Windstream is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate the authenticity and uniqueness of our people and their ideas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, genetic information, protected veteran status, current military status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. We are dedicated to giving full consideration to qualified disabled individuals and protected veterans. The diverse voices of our employees fuel our innovation and inclusive culture.

Note: Actual base pay for this position will depend on the candidate's primary work location and other factors, such as relevant skills and experience.