Optical Field Technician | Illinois (excluding Chicagoland), Iowa, and St. Louis

Optical Field Technician

US Signal is a leading data center services provider, offering secure, reliable network, cloud hosting, colocation, data protection, and disaster recovery services — all powered by its expansive, robust fiber network. US Signal also helps customers optimize their IT resources through the provision of managed services and professional services.

Join our team as an Optical Field Technician responsible for daily network monitoring and coordination of all field activities across a multi-state territory covering Illinois (excluding the Chicagoland area), all of Iowa, and the St. Louis metro. This role requires comprehensive knowledge of fiber optic networks and the ability to resolve network issues from circuit turn-up through detailed maintenance. A company vehicle is provided to support regular travel across the territory. On-call availability is required to support 24/7/365 emergency response.

What You'll Do

Test, turn-up, and maintain circuits ranging from DS-1 to OC-192, optical transport equipment, and customer premises equipment (CPE). Install network elements and perform monthly facility maintenance of telecommunications equipment across the assigned territory. Troubleshoot network issues using Cisco CTC or CTP platforms and provide second-level support to the Network Operations Center. Coordinate directly with customer representatives, operating companies, and internal teams to drive timely resolution of service issues. Install telecommunications equipment on customer premises. Complete special projects and assignments as directed by management.

What to Expect

This is a field-based role requiring regular travel throughout Illinois (excluding Chicagoland), Iowa, and the St. Louis area. A company vehicle is provided. Candidates must be available for on-call response 24/7/365 and able to respond to emergency situations outside of standard business hours.

Requirements

• 2+ years experience working in the telecommunications industry with knowledge of outside & inside plant, telecommunications industry standards, TCP/IP, networking, SONET, DWDM, and Cisco equipment.
• Strong knowledge of optical transport systems including Cisco ONS equipment, MSTP, SONET/DWDM, and IP/Data networking with Cisco routers and switches.
• Working knowledge of test equipment for DS-1 through OC-192 circuits, fiber span testing, Central Office engineering practices, and LEC standards and interfaces.
• Proficiency with Windows, Microsoft Office, and technical tools including MapInfo, Visio, and MS Project for network documentation and project management.

Competencies

• Put the Customer First: Customer Focus, Service Orientation
• Simplify: Problem Solving, Strategic Thinking
• Act Like an Owner: Accountability, Leadership, Business Acumen

Education

• Bachelor's Degree or 4+ years professional experience in telecommunications or electrical engineering.

Required License(s)/Certification(s)

• Ability to achieve CJIS certification within an orientation period of employment.
• Valid driver's license and insurance.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

This position may be performed in either a standard office setting or a home office environment. It requires prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer and other office equipment, and effective time management in a self-directed work environment. Occasional lifting of items up to 25 pounds may be required.

All US Signal employees will comply with US Signal Information Security policies to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of US Signal and customer data. All employees are responsible to ensure actions comply with state and federal regulations and requirements.

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time.

US Signal is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The anticipated hourly rate for this position is $27.00 to $33.00 per hour and yearly bonus eligibility depending on location, skills, experience, and other job-related factors. This role is also eligible for an annual performance-based bonus. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to candidate qualifications, experience, geographic location, and internal equity.