Drop Technician 2 - Phelan, CA

Race Communications; Phelan (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid medical and dental

PTO and holidays

401k matching (4%)

Free fiber internet service in service

Job summary

Race Communications in California is seeking a Drop Technician 2 for field-based installation, maintenance, and repair of last-mile fiber infrastructure. The role is based at a Race worksite in Phelan, with travel to other offices and off-site locations as needed.

You will terminate fiber, install drop cables, and ensure quality service while operating bucket trucks and related equipment. Safety and customer satisfaction are core priorities.

Qualifications

• Eligible to work in the US without sponsorship.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Valid CA driver license with DMV check.
• 6+ months experience as a Drop Technician or in outside plant/fiber optics.
• Ability to read and interpret fiber network design maps and MOPs.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English; Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Install and terminate fiber drop cables on customer premises.
• Perform installations and maintenance of aerial/underground fiber.
• Operate bucket truck and related safety equipment.
• Provide on-site customer service and troubleshoot connectivity issues.
• Maintain safety documentation and vehicle/equipment pre/post checks.

Skills

Effective communication in English

Spanish desirable

MS Office familiarity

Color discernment and tonal cues

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Bucket truck operation

Trencher/utility equipment

MAPs/blueprint reading (fiber maps)

Job description

Location: In the Field: Phelan, CA. Work will be primarily performed at a designated field worksite location based out of a central Race Communications worksite. Frequent travel to and work from other Race offices or other off‑site locations will be required.

Location: In the Field: Phelan, CA. Work will be primarily performed at a designated field worksite location based out of a central Race Communications worksite. Frequent travel to and work from other Race offices or other off‑site locations will be required.

Comp: $22 to $24 per hour

Who We Are:

We're more than a fiber internet provider, we're your neighbors, committed to connecting California communities since 1994. At Race, relationships matter as much as speed. We combine cutting‑edge technology with a genuine, people‑first approach that makes every interaction feel personal. Our team operates like family: collaborative, supportive, and dedicated to making a real difference. When you join Race, you're not just accepting a job, you're becoming part of a team that values integrity, celebrates wins together and believes that meaningful work happens when great people connect with great purpose.

Position Impact:

The Drop Technician 2 focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of the last‑mile connectivity infrastructure, often referred to as the "drop." You will play a crucial role in ensuring that telecom services, including internet, phone, and television, are delivered effectively to residential and business customers. Drop Technicians are responsible for installing and terminating fiber optics, connecting them to customer premises, and ensuring proper signal quality. You will troubleshoot connectivity issues, diagnose, and rectify problems promptly, and maintain accurate records of your work. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Drop Technicians contribute to reliable and high‑quality telecom services, ultimately enhancing connectivity experiences for end‑users.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Eligibility for US Employment without sponsorship
• Minimum of 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred
• A valid California driver's license, subject to successful verification through a DMV check, is mandatory
• Minimum of 6 months experience as a Drop Technician or 6 months experience with outside plant/fiber optics
• Solid understanding of drop processes and GO95 codes
• Proficient understanding of utility markings
• Proven understanding and ability to read and interpret fiber network design maps, splice plans, and MOPs
• Proven knowledge of distribution operations, construction, and maintenance
• Experience in fiber optic splicing/termination experience a plus
• The ability to effectively communicate in English, including speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension, as necessary for effective job performance and workplace communication
• Proficiency in Spanish Language is desirable

Skills:

• Proficient use of MS Office applications including Teams, teleconferencing applications
• Functional use of common office equipment, computers, and office software
• Ability to distinguish colors and audible tones

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Fiber Optic Cable Installation and Maintenance:

• Performs placement of aerial and underground fiber optic cable on customer premises
• Performs installations and replacements of aerial and underground fiber drop cable
• Performs termination of fiber drop cable
• Performs installation of exterior DMARC Clam Shell
• Performs installations and repairs of underground conduit

Customer Support:

• Provides exceptional customer service during on‑site visits, addressing customer inquiries and concerns professionally and courteously

Equipment Operations and Site Maintenance:

• Operates mechanized equipment such as a bucket truck, excavators, and trencher
• Climbs poles up to 40 feet and operates in bucket trucks with 32' plus ladders
• Manages deployment and removal of traffic control devices to ensure safety in work areas on streets or roadways
• Adheres to and operates within the weight capacity limits specified by manufacturers for equipment and machinery:
• Bucket Truck: 350-pound manufacturers maximum load capacity
• Ladders: 300-pound manufacturers maximum load capacity

Vehicle Maintenance and Travel:

• Maintains vehicle/equipment pre‑op/post‑op to be prepared to perform required duties
• Maintains a clean driving record as defined by the current fleet insurance underwriter
• Spends a significant portion of the workday traveling in a vehicle visiting various locations and spending time both indoors and outdoors including businesses and/or residents depending on the nature of the job
• Overtime, nights, and weekends may be required

Safety Awareness and Compliance:

• Observes hazards and reports any concerns or accidents to a supervisor or safety professional; participates in the investigation process as needed
• Understands, completes, and signs off all pre‑job safety planning tools at the start and end of the shift; completes all required safety-related paperwork
• Understands and responds appropriately to all safety hazards and warning devices (e.g., back‑up alarms, smell of smoke, fumes, odors, different colored warning tags, warning sirens)
• Maintains awareness of potential hazards like uneven terrain, loose pets, or slippery walkways
• Maintains a safe distance from aggressive or unrestrained animals
• Maintains a safe distance from potential hazards in the work area, including loose pets, children, and other live obstacles

Why Join Our Team:

• Join a tight‑knit crew—no faceless corporation vibes here
• Growth potential: promotions and new challenges are part of our DNA
• Competitive base salary
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: 100% company‑paid medical and dental insurance (starting the 1st of the month following your start date), PTO (vacation, sick), 11 paid holidays, paid birthdays, 401k matching (4%)
• Free fiber internet service for all employees living in our service area
• A culture built on integrity, mutual respect, and a shared purpose