OSP Fiber - Locator

NextLink; Waco (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Nextlink is seeking a Fiber Locate Technician in Texas to identify and mark underground fiber routes using electromagnetic locators and GPR. You will work with contractors to ensure safe excavation and maintain detailed location records.

Responsibilities include reading blueprints, interpreting maps, and communicating findings to crews. This is a full-time, outdoor role requiring travel within the region and on-call weekend coverage.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Able to walk up to 5 miles per day 2-3 times per week.
• Able to carry locating equipment for several hours per day.
• Experience with fiber locate and utility maps is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Locate underground fiber optic cables using locators and GPR.
• Mark locations with paint, flags, or stakes.
• Read and interpret construction plans and utility maps.
• Maintain records and sketches of fiber locations.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and report hazards.
• Coordinate with contractors, project managers, and field crews.
• Resolve discrepancies in utility records and communicate risks.
• Assist in mitigating damage during excavation activities.

Skills

Fiber locating equipment proficiency

Blueprints & maps interpretation

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Documentation basics

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

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.

OSP Fiber Locate Technician

Job Summary

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

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the 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
• Non-Exempt

Work Environment / 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
• Full-time

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.