Telecommunications Mechanic

Utilicom; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos in Reston, Virginia, seeks an experienced Telecommunications Mechanic to install, terminate, test, and maintain copper and fiber cabling in a secure environment. You will document work, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and support mission-critical operations at client sites.

The role requires TS/SCI w/ Poly clearance, a BA/BS or equivalent, and 5+ years' experience in telecom installations. You will read plans, install patch panels, test cables, and ensure safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• TS/SCI w/ Poly clearance required.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
• 5+ years of experience as a Communications Technician or similar role; Master’s with 3+ years is acceptable.
• Proven experience with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of telecom systems and related equipment.

Responsibilities

• Survey and document copper and fiber infrastructure with precision.
• Install, plan, organize, and schedule cabling tasks and equipment.
• Troubleshoot telecom hardware/software issues and resolve root causes.
• Read plans and specifications to guide installations and repairs.
• Ensure safety and quality standards; document work clearly.
• Install patch panels, terminate copper/fiber, and test Cables.

Skills

Telecommunications troubleshooting

Fiber optics testing

Cable termination

Documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

OTDR

Power meters

Cable certifiers

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Telecommunications Mechanic to support the installation, termination, testing, and maintenance of copper and fiber optic cabling in a secure environment. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring reliable communications infrastructure by executing structured cabling tasks, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and maintaining accurate documentation. This role supports mission-critical operations and requires adherence to strict security, safety, and quality standards.

Primary Responsibilities

• Survey and document existing telecommunications infrastructure such as copper and fiber cables, active and passive components using electronic devices
• Responsible for the Installation, Planning, Organizing and Scheduling of communications cabling and equipment to complete assigned work orders, including assigning tasks, assuring the work is being installed in a high-quality manner and performing quality inspections
• Responsible for ensuring the seamless operation of communication infrastructure, providing hands-on technical support, and working directly with clients to resolve issues
• On-site position, demanding your presence at our facility and client locations
• Install, configure, test, and maintain telecommunications equipment, including switches, routers, fiber optic systems, and cabling
• Troubleshoot and diagnose hardware and software issues related to telecommunications systems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of network infrastructure
• Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications to guide installation and repair processes
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies during installation and maintenance activities
• Document all work performed, including equipment installed, configurations, and troubleshooting steps, in a clear and concise manner
• Collaborate with project managers and other technicians on complex installations and upgrades
• Installation of video and data cable with Cat 5E, Cat 6 as well as fiber cable
• Terminating and testing of horizontal copper (Cat 5, Cat 6).
• Termination of fiber
• Termination of riser cable
• Installation of patch panels
• Label and test horizontal cable
• Installation of backbone and riser cable (copper & fiber)
• Installation of interior conduit, Panduit and Wiremold
• Read and understand plans and specifications
• Installation of plywood and racks
• Installation of cable trays in TC, MDF, IDF
• Pull cable 100 pair or smaller unassisted
• Install prefab assembly unassisted
• Assist in Pulling Low Voltage Cable
• Assist in pulling all size of Telecom Cables
• Install Wiremold, Sleeves, Panduit and ENT
• Install pull and junction boxes up to 24" x 24"
• Assist with Tugger setup and use for large wire and long pulls (Pulley Wheels, Capstans wheel, Chains, etc. To operate a Tugger requires certification)
• Assist with interior overhead and under floor raceways layouts for telecom
• Assist with bonding all metallic portions
• Terminate various manufacturers of copper termination blocks
• Knowledge of all fiber termination connectors
• Knowledge of all makes of fiber optics cable

Basic Qualifications

• TS/SCI w/ Poly Clearance is required
• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) or equivalent relevant experience
• 5+ years of experience as a Communications Technician or in a similar role
  • OR Master’s degree with 3+ years of relevant experience
• Proven experience with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of various telecommunications systems (e.g., VoIP, PBX, fiber optics, copper cabling) and associated equipment such as: various pathways and cable trays, various cabinet and racks, various telecommunications devices, prefabricated components and assemblies, and telecommunications grounding systems
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools and test equipment for telecommunications systems
• Strong understanding of network protocols and topologies
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematics
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients
• Physical ability to lift heavy equipment, climb ladders, and work in various environmental conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting government customers
• Industry certifications such as BICSI, FOA, ETA, or similar
• Experience using copper and fiber test equipment (e.g., OTDR, power meters, cable certifiers)
• Familiarity with standards compliance (TIA/EIA, ANSI, ISO)
• At least 2 years of experience leading or supervising technicians or project tasks
• Experience supporting large-scale infrastructure upgrades or new facility buildouts

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.