Fiber Locate Technician

Nextlink Internet; Waco, Northern (TX, KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Company truck

Dental insurance

Employee discount

Fuel card

Health insurance

Health savings account

Life insurance

On-the-job training

Opportunities for advancement

Paid time off

Paid training

Referral program

Vision insurance

Job summary

Nextlink Internet in Hudson Oaks, TX is seeking a Fiber Locate Technician to identify, locate, and mark underground fiber optic cables, ensuring safety during excavation and construction projects.

You will use electromagnetic locators and GPR, read blueprints, maintain records, comply with safety regulations, and travel up to 30% to job sites across designated regions.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record.
• Ability to walk up to 5 miles per day 2-3 times per week.
• Ability to lift and carry locating equipment for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Identify, locate, and mark underground fiber optic cables using locating equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, maps, and construction plans.
• Maintain accurate records of fiber line locations and updates.
• Ensure safety compliance and report hazards as needed.
• Coordinate with contractors and field crews to share location information.
• Resolve data conflicts in utility records and mitigate risks.

Skills

Fiber locating equipment

Map reading & blueprints

Problem solving

Communication skills

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Valid Driver's License

Tools

Electromagnetic locators

Ground-penetrating radar

Job description

Company Overview

We are a Hudson Oaks, Texas-based Internet Service Provider (ISP) delivering High Speed Internet and Voice Services throughout multiple states to residential, business, K-12 Education and government customers. We believe there is much more to an internet company than just delivering cost-effective internet solutions; we believe in delivering an overall customer experience that our competitors simply cannot match.

As the Fiber Locate Technician you are responsible for identifying, locating, and marking the presence of underground fiber optic cables to ensure safety during excavation and construction projects. This role involves using specialized equipment to detect and trace the paths of fiber optic lines, accurately marking their locations, and maintaining detailed records of the located utilities. The technician works closely with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to prevent damage to fiber optic infrastructure and ensure safe worksite operations. As a rapidly growing ISP in Texas, Nextlink has placed hundreds of route miles of fiber optic plant in the public ROW with more being constructed each week. The Fiber Locate team is a critical part of ensuring our infrastructure remains healthy and continues to provide highspeed fiber internet to the communities we serve.

Essential Functions

• Fiber Optic Line Detection: Use specialized equipment, such as electromagnetic locators and tracer wires, to accurately locate underground fiber optic cables.
• Marking Locations: Clearly and accurately mark the location of fiber optic lines using paint, flags, or stakes to prevent damage during excavation and construction activities.
• Blueprint and Map Interpretation: Read and interpret construction plans, utility maps, and blueprints to determine the approximate location of fiber optic cables.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of fiber optic line locations, including creating sketches, maps, and digital records. Update records to reflect any changes in the network.
• Safety Compliance: Ensure all locating activities comply with local, state, and federal safety regulations. Report any safety concerns or hazards to appropriate authorities.
• Communication: Liaise with contractors, project managers, utility companies, and field crews to provide accurate information regarding fiber optic line locations and potential risks.
• Problem-Solving: Resolve any issues related to inaccurate or conflicting utility records and address any challenges encountered during the locating process.
• Preventative Measures: Assist in identifying potential risks to fiber optic lines during excavation or construction and provide recommendations to mitigate damage.

Skills

• Proficient in using locating equipment specific to fiber optics, such as electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar.
• Ability to read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and construction plans.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with contractors and utility companies.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and record‑keeping purposes.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid drivers license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to walk up to 5 miles per day 2-3 times per week.
• Ability to carry equipment used for locating utilities several hours per day.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in fiber optic installation or location (e.g., FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician) preferred.
• OSHA safety certification.
• 1 or more years of experience locating underground utilities as part of Texas 811 program.

Job Classification

Fiber Operations

Hazards

• Outdoor work in various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and rain.
• Frequent travel to job sites within a designated region.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to walk long distances and lift and carry equipment as needed.
• Willingness to travel to various job sites.

Working Hours/Days

• Day-time work hours.
• Must be available for rotating on call schedule which will include weekends.

Travel Requirements

30% travel required.

Affirmative Action (AAP/EEO Statement)

Nextlink is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.

Drug Free Workplace

Nextlink intends to provide a safe work environment that will help protect the safety, health and well-being of all employees. Therefore, we are committed to an alcohol and drug-free workplace.

Employee Acknowledgement

By signing below the employee confirms that they have read, understand and agree to the job requirements and duties and understand that in the event that they are not able to meet the requirements or duties it may result in the termination of their employment.

Job Type

Full-time

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Company truck
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Fuel card
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Experience

• Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)
• Willingness to travel: 50% (Preferred)

Affirmative Action (AAP/EEO Statement)

Nextlink is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.

Drug Free Workplace

Nextlink intends to provide a safe work environment that will help protect the safety, health and well-being of all employees. Therefore, we are committed to an alcohol and drug-free workplace.

Benefits

• Employer paid medical, dental, and vision
• 401K with a match
• Training provided
• Career advancement opportunities
• Paid time off and holidays
• Voluntary life insurance
• Referral bonus program

Why Work For Nextlink?

We bring the high-speed Internet and phone experience to the underserved markets of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois. We make a difference in the lives of everyone we serve, whether it is an online student, a work-at-home family, or large enterprises such as ISDs, higher education, or government entities.