The Field Service Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing field operations related to the installation, maintenance, repair, and expansion of the company's fiber optic network infrastructure. This role manages field technicians, contractors, vendors, and construction activities to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
The Field Service Manager oversees Outside Plant (OSP) and Inside Plant (ISP) projects from planning and permitting through construction, testing, and as-built documentation. This position serves as a key liaison with municipalities, permitting agencies, contractors, and internal stakeholders while supporting network design, cost estimating, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and manage field service personnel, contractors, inspectors, and vendor relationships.
- Oversee all aspects of OSP and ISP construction projects, including permitting, construction, testing, redline documentation, and as-built approvals.
- Coordinate with state and local permitting agencies, Departments of Transportation (DOTs), municipalities, and utility stakeholders.
- Ensure projects are completed according to established timelines, quality standards, and budget requirements.
- Manage labor and material requisitions to support field operations and project execution.
- Track project milestones, maintain production reports, and prepare contractor pay applications.
- Develop and review cost estimates for network expansion and lateral construction projects.
- Support network planning, engineering, and design initiatives.
- Manage service contracts and oversee third-party support services.
- Direct emergency response activities, including network outage restoration, disaster recovery, and trouble management.
- Monitor compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and safety standards.
- Provide leadership, coaching, scheduling, and training for field service personnel.
Requirements
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Telecommunications, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Demonstrated experience in telecommunications, utility construction, fiber optic network operations, or related industries.
- Strong leadership, project management, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Project.
- Experience using mapping, GIS, or telecommunications network management software such as OSPInsight or similar platforms.
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
- Ability to read, interpret, and update engineering drawings, fiber network documentation, and construction plans.
Preferred Knowledge & Technical Skills- Understanding of fiber optic network architecture, including OSP and ISP environments.
- Experience utilizing GPS equipment, mapping technologies, and network asset tracking systems.
- Ability to perform or supervise fiber optic testing using OTDRs, power meters, light sources, and fusion splicing equipment.
- Knowledge of fiber optic cable installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and restoration practices.
- Familiarity with utility locate requirements and "Call Before You Dig" regulations.
- Understanding of grounding principles for underground utility and fiber optic networks.
- Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and industry safety best practices.
- Experience with network monitoring systems and operational support tools.
