Fiber Construction and Splicing Manager

Overview

The Fiber Construction & Splicing Manager is responsible for leading and supervising crews in the installation, maintenance, repair, and splicing of fiber optic networks, including both aerial and underground construction. This role manages both internal construction and splicing teams in Indiana, ensures quality and safety standards, and serves as the primary technical and operational contact for all fiber-related projects in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. The manager is expected to perform field duties as needed and drive the adoption of Surf Internet's standards across all markets and builds.

Reports To: Director of Network Maintenance

Department: OSP Construction

Job Status: Exempt

Responsibilities:

Project Preparation & Planning

• Review job folders, blueprints, engineering plans, and project specifications.
• Coordinate with project managers and schedulers to plan work and assign tasks.
• Ensure all permits, safety documentation (JHA, toolbox talks), and equipment are ready before site arrival.
• Develop methods, guidelines, and policies to facilitate efficient completion of work.

Crew Leadership & Supervision

• Assemble, lead, and mentor crews of technicians, laborers, and splicing personnel.
• Assign tasks based on skill levels and project needs using scheduling software.
• Oversee the scheduling and training of fiber splicers, construction teams, and contractors.
• Monitor daily progress, adjust plans as needed, and resolve escalated issues.
• Enforce safety protocols and conduct daily safety briefings.

Construction & Splicing Oversight

• Supervise installation and splicing of fiber optic cables (aerial, underground, and buried).
• Operate or oversee use of equipment such as directional drills, excavation machinery, vacuum truck/trailer, fiber blowers, cable pullers, splicing tools, aerial lifts, and hydraulic lift ladders.
• Ensure proper documentation of pre-construction and post-construction activities.
• Conduct quality checks, troubleshoot issues, and ensure adoption of Surf splicing standards.
• Perform field splicing responsibilities and troubleshooting as needed.

Safety & Compliance

• Inspect work sites for hazards and ensure use of PPE.
• Maintain a clean and organized job site.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, state agencies, manufacturers, and company safety standards.
• Be available for on-call rotation.

Communication & Reporting

• Serve as the primary contact for technical, construction, and splicing issues.
• Interface with customers, property owners, inspectors, and the Engineering Group.
• Provide daily production reports and updates to project managers.
• Track crew time, equipment usage, material inventory, and complete all related administrative paperwork.

Customer & Quality Focus

• Ensure quality of work performed by all teams and contractors.
• Promote the sale of services and products permitted by the company.
• Contact customers face-to-face to notify them of work being performed and when service is restored.
• Communicate company policy and bill customers when appropriate.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• 5+ years of experience in fiber optic or utility construction and splicing (required).
• Previous backbone or carrier-class fiber splicing experience (required; splicing test maybe conducted).
• Prior supervisory/management experience (required).
• Valid state driver's license with satisfactory driving record; CDL preferred; ability to drive manual gear shift vehicles.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, prints, and vendor specifications.
• Strong knowledge of fiber optic installation, splicing techniques, and safety standards.
• Ability to use a laptop/PC and multiple software interfaces (Sitetracker, Vetro, MBS, Samsara, Hub Spot, Excel, Adobe, ARC GIS, etc. beneficial).
• Must meet physical requirements (lifting up to 100 lbs, working aloft, entering confined spaces, perceiving wire cable colors).
• Willingness to travel and work in various weather conditions.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills

• Directional drilling and excavation/earthmoving experience.
• Fiber splicing and testing experience.
• Familiarity with underground and overhead utility construction.
• Experience with ADSS cable installation and energized space work.
• Proficiency in construction management software and web-based email.
• Experience with inside cable installation, repair, and maintenance of telecommunication systems and equipment.