Fiber Technician Apprenticeship

Next Level Networks, Inc.; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A telecommunications company in Columbus is seeking motivated individuals for a Fiber Technician Apprenticeship Program. This role is tailored for transitioning service members and veterans, offering hands-on training in fiber optic systems with a clear path to full-time employment. Participants will gain practical skills, industry certifications, and career growth opportunities in a rapidly expanding field, contributing to vital digital infrastructure. Ideal candidates should possess a mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn while working in diverse environments.

Qualifications

• Motivated individuals, preferably veterans or transitioning military members, seeking a career in telecommunications.
• Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to travel to different job sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Learn installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of fiber optic systems.
• Deploy to real-world job sites for hands-on work in all aspects of fiber's journey.
• Graduate into a full-time role with a clear trajectory for professional growth.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving skills

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Fiber optic testing equipment

Installation tools

Job description

Columbus, United States | Posted on 03/25/2026

Next Level has developed an innovative, community-driven platform for building customer-owned 10-gigabit fiber networks. Our solution allows homeowners, neighborhoods, property managers, and developers to improve broadband quality, increase property values, and reduce costs through crowdfunding and demand aggregation. The high-speed, future-proof fiber network offers symmetrical speeds up to 10,000 Mbps, supporting advanced applications like streaming, video conferencing, and gaming. The open-access design enables multiple ISPs to operate on the network, prioritizing user privacy and network neutrality over data selling or advertising.

Job Description

Transition Your Skills. Secure Your Future.

You’ve spent your career mastering complex systems and operating under pressure. Now, leverage that discipline in the high-stakes world of Telecommunications. Our Fiber Technician Apprenticeship Program is specifically designed for transitioning service members and veterans ready to trade their uniforms for a high-demand technical career.

The Objective

This isn't just "on-the-job training"—it’s a tactical transition plan. We provide the technical expertise, hands‑on field experience, and industry certifications required to dominate the fiber optics sector. You will train alongside seasoned professionals and fellow veterans in a structured environment that mirrors the camaraderie and standards of excellence you’re used to.

Why Veterans?

Military‑Grade Precision: We value the "first‑time right" mentality you bring to the job.

Rapid Advancement: Just like the NCO corps, we identify leaders early. Successful completion of this program is your direct route to full‑time employment and fast‑track opportunities for Supervisory and Leadership roles.

Mission Critical Impact: You’ll be building the backbone of our nation’s digital infrastructure—a mission that requires the reliability only a veteran can provide.

Program Highlights

• Hands‑On Training: Learn installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of fiber optic systems in diverse environments.
• Technical Skill Development: Gain expertise in using testing equipment, tools, and techniques critical to fiber optic technology.
• Mentorship & Support: Work closely with experienced technicians and supervisors to develop industry‑specific skills.
• Career Growth Opportunities: Progress from foundational technical roles to leadership or specialized positions as your skills grow.
• Industry Relevance: Prepare for an in‑demand career in telecom, a field experiencing rapid expansion and ongoing technological innovation.

The Roadmap

• Phase 1: Specialized Technical Instruction – Master the fundamentals of telecom with a focus on safety.
• Phase 2: Field Operations – Deploy to real‑world job sites for hands‑on work in all aspects of fiber's journey from the data center to the desktop.
• Phase 3: Career Integration – Graduate into a full‑time role with a clear trajectory for professional growth.

Requirements

Ideal Candidate Requirements

• Motivated individuals, preferably veterans or transitioning military members, seeking a career in telecommunications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in technology.
• Willingness to learn, work safely, and develop expertise in fiber optics.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work full‑time with primarily weekday hours. Weekend and overtime availability may be required based on project needs.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Willingness to travel to different job sites as needed, which may be out of the local market for several weeks at a time.
• Valid driver’s license and a proactive attitude toward career development.