Lead Fiber Optic Technician

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid and provident fund

Company vehicles and uniforms

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Fiber Optic Technician to head field operations in Bloemfontein. You will oversee installation, testing and maintenance of fiber networks, guiding a team of technicians and ensuring safety and quality standards.

The role emphasizes leadership, hands-on fiber experience, and the ability to interpret blueprints and schematics, with opportunities to mentor staff and advance network deployment projects across the Free State.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in a lead or supervisory role in fiber optic projects.
• In-depth knowledge of fiber optic installation, splicing, and testing.
• Proficiency with OTDR, fusion splicers and power meters.
• Ability to read technical drawings, schematics and blueprints.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of fiber optic technicians in installation, splicing, testing and troubleshooting.
• Ensure quality and integrity of fiber installations while adhering to standards.
• Perform advanced testing with OTDR and power meters and analyze results.
• Troubleshoot faults promptly to minimize downtime and outages.
• Mentor junior technicians and maintain accurate work records.
• Enforce safety protocols and manage tools, equipment and vehicles.

Skills

Team leadership

Communication skills

Problem solving

Safety awareness

Education

FOA certification

Tools

OTDR

Fusion splicer

Optical power meter

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier telecommunications company, is looking for a highly skilled and motivated Lead Fiber Optic Technician to spearhead their field operations in Bloemfontein . This role is critical for the deployment, maintenance, and repair of fiber optic networks, ensuring reliable high-speed internet and communication services for a growing customer base. As the Lead Technician, you will be responsible for guiding a team of technicians, ensuring adherence to safety standards, and delivering exceptional service quality. This is an excellent opportunity to take on a leadership role within a forward-thinking organization that is expanding its network infrastructure across the Free State province. You will work with state-of-the-art equipment and play a vital part in connecting communities and businesses through advanced fiber optic technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of fiber optic technicians in the installation, splicing, testing, and troubleshooting of fiber optic cables.
• Ensure the quality and integrity of fiber optic network installations, adhering to all company and industry standards.
• Perform advanced fiber optic testing and analysis using OTDR, power meters, and other specialized equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fiber optic network faults and outages promptly to minimize downtime.
• Interpret and work from blueprints, schematics, and detailed work orders.
• Conduct site surveys and provide technical recommendations for new installations or upgrades.
• Train and mentor junior technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.
• Maintain accurate records of all work performed, including installation details, test results, and inventory.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment for the team.
• Manage and maintain company tools, equipment, and vehicles.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Fiber Optic Technician, with at least 4 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of fiber optic principles, installation techniques, splicing, and testing methodologies.
• Proficiency in operating and interpreting results from OTDR, fusion splicers, and optical power meters.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings, schematics, and construction blueprints.
• Strong understanding of telecommunications network infrastructure.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
• Physical ability to work in various weather conditions and lift heavy equipment as needed.
• Certification in fiber optics (e.g., FOA) is a significant advantage.
• Experience with FTTx deployments is preferred.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive annual salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Our client provides ongoing training and professional development opportunities to keep you at the cutting edge of fiber optic technology.
• Field personnel are provided with company vehicles, tools, and uniforms.
• This is a non-remote position based in Bloemfontein , offering stability and consistent field-based work.