Fiber Splicer

Communication Innovators, Inc. • Des Moines, IA

1h

About The Position

A Fiber Splicer is a skilled technician responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing fiber optic cables. The role supports the efficient transmission of data, voice, and video signals through optical fiber networks and requires knowledge of fiber optic technology and proficiency in splicing and terminating fiber optic cables. The position is in the Outside Plant department, is classified as non-exempt, and reports to the Director of Outside Plant. Travel is required, and the work may involve varied environmental conditions, including confined spaces, heights, and outdoor settings.

The technician performs fusion and mechanical splicing, prepares cables, tests and troubleshoots fiber optic networks, and documents splicing work. The role also involves maintaining and calibrating equipment, following safety procedures, and collaborating with project managers, engineers, and other technicians. Splicing quality and test measurements must meet acceptable industry standards and customer requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of fiber optic technology, including fiber types, connectors, and splicing techniques.
• Proficiency in fusion splicing and mechanical splicing methods.
• Experience preparing fiber optic cable, including stripping, cleaning, and cleaving.
• Familiarity with fiber optic testing, including OTDRs, light sources, and power meters.
• Understanding of optical power and loss measurements, signal quality, and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Ability to interpret fiber optic network designs, splice plans, and engineering diagrams.
• Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail for precise fiber alignment and termination.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures for working with fiber optic cables and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Good communication skills for interacting with colleagues, clients, and project stakeholders.
• Ability to work in varied environmental conditions, including confined spaces, heights, and outdoor settings.
• Willingness to travel.

Nice To Haves

• Additional technical certifications or relevant vocational training.

Responsibilities

• Perform fusion or mechanical splicing of fiber optic cables to create continuous, high-quality optical connections that meet industry best practices and standards for low loss and low reflectance.
• Prepare fiber optic cables for splicing by stripping, cleaning, and cleaving fiber ends, using precision tools and equipment for accurate alignment and termination.
• Conduct optical power loss measurements using equipment such as an OTDR or a light source and power meter.
• Identify and resolve fiber optic cable faults, breaks, and signal degradation issues.
• Maintain accurate records of splicing activities, including splice locations, cable routes, and test results.
• Perform mid-sheath splicing on single and ribbon fibers.
• Follow safety protocols, identify hazards, implement safety measures, and promote a safe work environment.
• Maintain and calibrate fiber optic splicing and testing equipment, troubleshoot malfunctions, and perform routine maintenance.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and technicians to coordinate splicing activities, meet project timelines, exchange information, and resolve technical issues.
• Test and verify splice quality, including splicing loss and return loss, against industry standards and customer requirements.
• Achieve low splice losses and high return losses during the fusion splicing process to maintain network signal integrity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED