Field Technician III

Ciena; Alaska; On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Ciena is seeking a Level 3 Technician to support installation, maintenance, and commissioning of telecommunications infrastructure across diverse environments nationwide.

This role demands extensive hands-on expertise—Central Office installation, cabling, fiber handling, power grounding, testing, and documentation—and leadership to assign work, mentor juniors, and enforce safety standards on projects that travel nationwide.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in telecom installation, preferably Central Office installation including lacing/stitching.
• Hands-on experience with installation procedures and processes, cabling, equipment mounting, and fiber optic handling.
• Strong knowledge of cabling operations, power grounding, and equipment installation standards.
• Ability to analyze job specifications, resolve issues, and interpret technical drawings.
• Proven leadership skills to assign work and mentor junior technicians.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to collaborate across levels.
• Willingness to travel nationwide (100%).
• Familiarity with Telcordia Standards and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Install, remove, and maintain Central Office equipment and infrastructure (switching, transport, power).
• Follow Telcordia Standards during installations.
• Lead Level 1–2 technicians and assign work while ensuring safety and quality.
• Analyze specs, drawings, and site docs; maintain accurate documentation.
• Perform power verification and grounding checks; build and test Ethernet cables.
• Ensure proper cable management and fiber handling; conduct quality inspections.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Safety awareness

Mentoring

Willing to travel

Education

Fiber optics certification

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Timekeeping software

Digital reporting tools

Training platform

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

Level 3 Technician

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Level 3 Technician to support the installation, maintenance, and commissioning of telecommunications infrastructure across a variety of environments. This role requires hands‑on expertise in equipment installation, cabling, power systems, fiber optics, and quality assurance. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of Central Office standards and practices, demonstrate strong technical problem‑solving skills, and be capable of working independently or leading a team of junior technicians on‑site. Nationwide travel is required to support project deployments, inspections, and in‑field execution of complex installations.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring that installations are completed safely, accurately, and in compliance with all job specifications, drawings, and industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform installation, removal, and maintenance of Central Office equipment and infrastructure, including common systems, switching, transport, and power systems
• Follow and apply knowledge of Telcordia Standards (e.g., GR-1275, AT&T TP-76300/TP-76400) during all installations.
• Independently manage tasks such as cabling installation, fiber cleaning and handling, equipment mounting, and power grounding
• Analyze and interpret technical job specifications, drawings, and site documentation
• Lead and provide work assignments to Level 1 and 2 technicians, ensuring quality and safety compliance
• Conduct in‑process and final quality inspections, including verifying correct installation and adherence to job specifications
• Maintain accurate documentation, including as‑built drawings and job reports
• Perform power verification and grounding checks using digital power meters
• Manage cable securing techniques such as ty-rap cutting, stitching, and use of Velcro, while protecting cables from damage
• Clean fiber jumpers and bulkheads using appropriate dry and wet methods
• Build, crimp, and test Ethernet (Cat5/6) cables and handle DS3 cable connections
• Perform DC power work, including tasks related to rectifiers and power distribution units
• Understand and apply airflow management principles to maintain equipment cooling and operational integrity
• Act as the Installation Supplier’s in‑charge technician on jobs not requiring a Level 4 lead

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience or documented equivalent proficiency in telecom installation, preferably Central Office installation including lacing/stitching.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with installation procedures and processes, including cabling, equipment mounting, and fiber optic handling
• Strong technical knowledge of cabling operations, power grounding, and equipment installation standards
• Demonstrated ability to analyze job specifications, resolve issues, and interpret technical drawings
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to assign work and mentor junior technicians
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to collaborate effectively with personnel at all organizational levels
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and attention to detail
• Exceptional customer service skills and a professional attitude
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and general computer literacy, including email, digital reporting, timekeeping software, training platform.
• Willingness to travel 100% nationwide, with flexibility for varied hours and short notice overtime
• Familiarity with safety regulations and best practices related to Telcordia Standards
• Physical ability to lift 40+ lbs., work on ladders, and navigate confined spaces or raised floor environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in fiber optics or telecommunications installation
• Experience with digital power meters and grounding equipment
• Knowledge of airflow management in Central Office environment
• Prior experience acting as a lead or in‑charge technician on complex installation projects
• Prior Ciena installation experience

Work Conditions

• Extensive travel required (nationwide).
• Schedule may include night shifts and weekend work depending on project needs.
• Perform work in diverse environments, including raised floors, crawl spaces, and tight or confined areas.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.