Fiber Network Estimator

Fiber Network Services, Inc.•Manassas, VA

2d•$85,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Fiber Network Services is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Fiber Network Estimator to forecast the time, materials, and labor costs for telecommunications infrastructure projects. The role analyzes engineering designs, permit requirements, and route maps to prepare comprehensive, competitive cost proposals for outside-plant (OSP) fiber deployments. The ideal candidate has technical knowledge of fiber optics engineering, aerial and underground construction methods, splicing, and regional utility regulations.

Requirements

At least 3–5 years of cost estimation experience in telecommunications, utility construction, or broadband industries.
Familiarity with fiber optic network architecture, including FTTH/FTTP, aerial and underground construction, directional drilling, and trenching.
Advanced proficiency in estimation software, MS Excel, GIS applications such as ESRI ArcGIS or Google Earth Pro, and AutoCAD.
Ability to interpret engineering designs, schematics, utility base maps, and municipal permit guidelines.
Strong communication and negotiation skills to work effectively with clients, field crews, and corporate stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Finance, or a related technical field, with at least 3 years of experience; alternatively, a high school diploma and 7 years of estimating experience.
Relevant industry certifications, such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), Project Management Professional (PMP), or FOA certifications.
Deep understanding of regional permitting processes, DOT regulations, and joint-use pole attachment rules.

Responsibilities

Analyze blueprints, GIS route data, right-of-way constraints, and engineering designs to prepare labor, material, and equipment cost breakdowns.
Coordinate with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal procurement teams to obtain current pricing for fiber optic cables, conduits, handholes, and active network components.
Collaborate with field technicians and project managers to assess constructability, identify environmental or structural obstacles, and refine estimates.
Prepare formal bid packages, RFP responses, and SOW documents within deadlines.
Evaluate project variables, including utility conflicts, permitting delays, and difficult terrain, and include contingency margins in pricing models.
Compare estimated costs with actual expenditures through post-project variance analysis to improve future estimating accuracy.