Splice Technician I

Job Title:                  Splice Technician I

Classification:         Full-Time, Non-Exempt, At-Will

Reports to:              Director of OSP

Department:            Construction and OSP

Location:                 In-Field: Merced, CA

Location Status:     Work will be primarily performed at a designated field worksite location based out of a central Race Communications worksite. Frequent travel to and work from other Race offices or other off-site locations will be required.

About Us:

Race Communications is one of California’s leading telecommunications and fiber technology companies, offering a full range of communications services and competing in over 25 markets with investments totaling $150M in recent years. 

Working in partnership with several public and private entities, Race focuses its efforts on building top-tier networks that service small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike.  

Our comprehensive network has brought significant improvements to local entities, education, community services, and public safety across the state. 

In today's connected world, reliable, high-speed internet is an absolute necessity, and it is our company's mission to provide advanced communications at an affordable price. Race focuses its efforts towards building world-class fiber networks and offering gigabit internet service to communities throughout California. 

Summary:

The Splice Technician I performs cable installation, construction, and repair across indoor and outdoor settings. Responsibilities include terminating fiber optic cables to expand or replace telecommunications networks while adhering to set standards, excelling in pinpointing and rectifying cable faults to uphold network integrity without causing signal disruptions. This role involves troubleshooting and maintenance to resolve signal issues. Proficient in driving a pick-up and trailer combination with safe maneuvering and backing skills, are adept at using bucket trucks, accessing manholes, hand holes, and employing ladders for diverse installation and construction tasks. With a proven history of efficiently managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines, this position entails frequent travel to various project locations.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Eligibility for US Employment without sponsorship
• Minimum of 18 years of age 
• High School Graduate or GED is required
• A valid California driver's license, subject to successful verification through a DMV check, is mandatory 
• Valid CDL (Commercial Driver's License) and medical card in good standing preferred not required
• Proven knowledge of how-to fusion splice both loose and ribbon fiber optic cables and to place a mid-sheath splice
• Proven knowledge of fiber optic test equipment such as OTDR and power meter
• Ability to travel to multiple work sites, work overtime, weekends, holidays, or off hours
• Professional appearance and demeanor
• Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English as the primary language used in the workplace

Skills:

• Proficient use of MS Office applications including Teams, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; teleconferencing applications
• Functional use of common office equipment, computers, and office software
• Strong time management skills, with the ability to manage priorities and workflow
• Commitment to accuracy and high standards for quality of work
• Ability to work with all levels of team members and management
• Excellent problem resolution and customer service skills
• Ability to deal effectively with a diversity of individuals at all organizational levels
• Strong organizational skills that reflect ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work on complex projects with general direction and minimal guidance
• Versatility, flexibility, and willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with a sense of urgency
• Good judgement with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
• Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Fiber Optic Splicing and Installation:

• Reads and interprets fiber splicing diagrams, prints, specifications, and color code charts
• Performs outside plant fiber optic cable splicing, installation of closures, unidirectional and bidirectional fiber testing, termination of fiber optic cables, ensuring adherence to safety practices
• Constructs proper splice cases and ensures slack storage and securing

Technical Expertise and Maintenance:

• Conducts maintenance and repair work on fiber optic lines, including examination, testing for damage, troubleshooting faults, and splicing new lines to replace damaged cables
• Mounts FTPs (fiber termination points) and splicing cabinets
• Validates and tests end-to-end service provisioning for the cable network

Equipment Operation and Site Coordination:

• Safely operates mechanized equipment such as bucket trucks, excavators, and trenchers
• Climbs poles up to 40 feet and works in bucket trucks with 32’ plus ladder
• Coordinates daily crew activities, maintains safe work sites, splicing rigs, and associated equipment and tools
• Deploys and removes traffic control devices to ensure work area safety on streets or roadways

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepares engineering field notes and splicing sheets, interprets telecom facilities on records and maps with clarity
• Maintains project tracing information, production sheets, time sheets, and completes reports related to project status and progress using computer software
• Takes site photos or work-related photos using digital cameras as needed

Safety Awareness and Compliance:

• Observes hazards, reports concerns or accidents to supervisors or safety professionals, and participates in the investigation process
• Understands and responds to all safety hazards and warning devices, completes pre-job safety planning tools, and necessary safety-related paperwork

Other duties as necessary may include but are not limited to:

• Successfully complete Assigned training and examinations, as well as participate in ongoing performance and development reviews, and goal setting
• Be available to participate in internal or external meetings, special functions, and professional development opportunities
• Cross-train and share knowledge with other team members
• Support routine tasks
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management

As Part of Our Team, You'll Enjoy:

• 100% premium paid for medical, dental, vision, and life for all our employees!
• An excellent 401(k) with 100% Employer-matched up to 4%
• Working to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas, providing much needed services to those who don’t have access to reliable internet
• Working for a company that appreciates their employees; every member of the Race team is a part of a collaborative family

Race will consider qualified job applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Race Communications is an equal opportunity employer.

Updated: 12/2023