Senior Field Locator - Fiber Optics & Underground Locates

MCNC; Durham (NC); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

MCNC in Durham, NC is seeking a Field Technician3 to provide regional coverage for locating and protecting fiber optic underground utilities. You will read maps, mark locations, and coordinate with excavators and utility reps while ensuring safety and accuracy.

The role requires extensive fiber optic locating experience, OSHA safety compliance, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. A valid driver’s license and training in Locate Technician programs are essential.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years fiber optic locating experience.
• 2+ years fiber optic construction/repair preferred.
• Experience with NC811 system and ticketing software.
• High School Diploma or GED; alternative experience considered.
• Successful completion of Locate Technician training program.
• Adherence to OSHA, state and municipal safety requirements.
• Ability to interact with public, customers, contractors, and utility reps.
• Must wear protective footwear and clothing; lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must work outdoors in all weather and drive company vehicles.
• Background and sex offender checks will be performed.
• Possess valid driver's license and MVR checks.
• Safety trainings and potential drug/alcohol screening may be required.

Responsibilities

• Use special electronic equipment to locate MCNC buried fiber optics within prescribed accuracy limits.
• Thoroughly search for underground utilities in a designated area, marking location, documenting, and photographing each locate.
• Make sure grounds are bonded back to the ground rod before leaving a locate.
• Go to and perform damage investigations.
• Verify the fiber is locatable after new installs and trouble locates are turned back over to MCNC.
• Receive and respond to excavation notices during normal and after hours in accordance with time requirements.
• Use a computer or other devices to receive, document and close out excavation notices, both during normal hours and after hours.
• Effectively communicate with excavators, utility reps, and MCNC personnel regarding underground facilities.
• This role will be based in a region and will inform the supervisor of any trouble locates or tickets going past due; acting as a floating resource across the state to support senior locators.
• Assist in difficult locate jobs, damage resolution, fiber route maintenance, and repairs as needed.
• Complete other duties as assigned by supervisor or management team members.

Skills

Fiber optic locating

OSHA safety awareness

Reading utility maps

Outdoor field work

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Locate Technician training program

Tools

NC811 system

Ticketing software

Job description

MCNC in Durham, NC is seeking a Field Technician3 to provide regional coverage for locating and protecting fiber optic underground utilities. You will read maps, mark locations, and coordinate with excavators and utility reps while ensuring safety and accuracy.

The role requires extensive fiber optic locating experience, OSHA safety compliance, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. A valid driver’s license and training in Locate Technician programs are essential.