Job description:
The OSP Engineer manages and maintains outside plant (OSP) projects from planning through completion. This role involves identifying technical issues, developing solutions, and designing telecommunications systems and infrastructure for new construction or upgrades. The engineer prepares budgets, creates engineering designs in coordination with drafting and GIS teams, and ensures compliance with industry standards.
The OSP Engineer oversees aerial and underground fiber construction, ensures network quality, and develops emergency restoration procedures. Responsibilities include managing project costs, preparing reports, conducting analyses, and supporting plant operations and maintenance.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Design and engineer fiber optic outside plant (OSP) networks, including aerial, underground, and buried infrastructure.
Maintain accurate network records in GIS (Esri), Vetro, and fiber management systems.
Conduct route analysis, field surveys, and feasibility studies for new builds, expansions, and upgrades.
Coordinate with construction, permitting, operations, and project management teams to ensure timely project execution.
Support permitting and compliance by working with municipalities, utilities, pole owners, and right-of-way authorities.
Review and approve contractor designs, as-built documentation, and test results.
Ensure all designs meet company standards, industry guidelines (ANSI, NECA, BICSI), and local regulations.
Assist with troubleshooting fiber network issues, including outages and capacity limitations.
Maintain accurate network records in GIS, CAD, and fiber management systems.
Support cost estimating, vendor coordination, and material selection.
Contribute to continuous improvement efforts in network design, construction efficiency, and quality.
Education, Certification, Skills, and Training Requirements
3+ years of experience in fiber OSP engineering, design, or telecommunications network planning.
Working knowledge of fiber optic design principles, including splicing, fiber counts, slack storage, and network architecture.
Experience with OSP design tools such as AutoCAD, GIS platforms, or fiber management systems.
Understanding of aerial and underground construction methods, pole loading, and conduit systems.
Strong analytical, organizational, and documentation skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineering-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Experience with FTTH, metro fiber, or long haul fiber networks.
Familiarity with permitting processes and utility coordination.
Knowledge of OTDR testing and fiber acceptance standards.
Experience working with contractors and construction crews.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, Network Technology – Preferred (not required)
Additional Required Skills and Abilities
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
High attention to detail, accuracy, and completeness.
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based with occasional outdoor work, including exposure to inclement weather.
Ability to bend, squat, crawl, climb, and lift up to 75 pounds.
Participation in a rotating second-tier on-call schedule, including weekdays and weekends.
Ability to Commute: Columbus, WI 53925 (Required)
