Horizontal Directional Drilling : Field Technician

Network Connex, through our operating companies, Advantage Engineers, CCSI Networks, Fairhaven, National Technologies and Verticom, provides network design and implementation services for some of the world’s most sophisticated networking and data infrastructure companies. Our clients include wireless service providers, network service providers, cable MSO’s, data center operators, hyperscale cloud companies, and Fortune 500 enterprises. 

General Summary:

The primary responsibilities of the HDD Technician II - Fiber Optic Construction are to support the installation of fiber optic cables in existing pathways in both outdoor and indoor settings and to manage Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations as needed. This role involves maintaining control of outside plant (OSP) activities surrounding the assigned work site(s), reading and understanding cable pulling plans, and taking and maintaining accurate field notes. The technician must have experience operating HDD equipment to install underground utilities and interpret plans for HDD drilling paths. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned. 

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform HDD operations for installing underground fiber optic cables and conduit according to industry standards and project specifications. Safely operate HDD equipment, including drill rigs, locators, and other related machinery.
• Read and follow design engineers' instructions and specifications, maintain the scope of work on the project, and adhere to safety procedures.
• Prepare engineering field notes. Interpret buried underground and aerial telecom facilities in records, on maps, and in the field, making recommendations for changes in running lines, drilling paths, or construction methodologies.
• Participate in engineering, permit, and construction processes to support project contracts.
• Understand and adhere to customer timelines.
• Serve as a corporate liaison to champion cultural change by encouraging critical corporate initiatives, fostering a positive work environment, enhancing organizational morale, all with the goal of driving operational efficiency.
• Coordinate and communicate fiber and HDD activities with other employees, departments, and management.

Knowledge, Skills, or Abilities:

• Knowledge of cable installation techniques, including but not limited to blowing, pulling, and HDD drilling methods.
• Experience in operating HDD equipment for underground utility installation, understanding of HDD drilling fluid systems, and knowledge of different soil conditions.
• Knowledge of fiber optic cable types, make-up of fiber optic cables, and manufacturer specifications to prevent damage to cables.
• Ensure a safe work environment in compliance with OSHA, state regulations, and all safety policies and procedures.
• Report any problems and/or safety hazards to your foreman or, in their absence, the crew lead, superintendent, or safety officer.
• Utilize acquired skills to excavate through sand, soil, dirt, rock, and earth.
• Safely operate equipment using all features and functions.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail and make good sound decisions based on information given.
• Ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.

Education and Experience:

• Education Level: High School/GED.
• Experience: 2 years of relevant job experience. Relevant experience is described as job experience in a similar industry or job experience with similar essential duties, including HDD operations.

Physical Requirements:

• Sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl; lift 75 lbs.; work in all weather conditions.
• Self-starter with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Open to direct instruction and feedback.
• Flexibility for changing tasks and assignments.
• A willingness to learn new skills and attend technical training.

EOE-Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran Network Connex believes all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants for employment because of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, domestic partnership status, ancestry, religion, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, disability, veteran status, age or any other protected group status.

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