Network Implementation Program Manager - Des Moines, IA

Network Implementation Program Manager

Work Arrangement: Hybrid

About Forged Fiber

At Forged Fiber, our mission is bold but simple: deliver fast, reliable, future-proof connectivity that builds the foundation for everything online. As we execute, we believe the right way to do something is the only way. This foundation guides how the company builds, operates, and maintains a state-of-the-art open-access fiber network platform that empowers millions.

Forged Fiber is about more than building a network. It is about people. Every role matters. Every contribution counts. Together, employees create impact through teamwork, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Role Summary

The  Network Implementation Program Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight and day-to-day execution of network construction projects, from engineering handoff through construction, splicing, turn-up, and close-out. This role focuses on field execution, vendor coordination, schedule management, and cost control to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget while driving continuous improvement across assigned markets.

Core Responsibilities

Construction Execution & Leadership

• Manage assigned network construction projects from readiness through technical completion
• Drive schedules, track milestones, and manage critical path activities with accountability
• Resolve field execution issues that impact schedule, cost, or quality with strategic solutions
• Lead and mentor junior project managers and construction coordinators

Vendor & Contractor Coordination

• Coordinate daily activities with construction and splicing vendors
• Track production progress and scope completion against KPIs
• Support adherence to safety and quality standards across all field operations
• Escalate vendor performance or quality issues with recommended corrective actions
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to optimize performance

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Partner with Engineering, Permitting, Supply Chain, Splicing, Finance, and Operations teams
• Ensure smooth handoffs between project phases and aligned execution across stakeholders
• Facilitate communication and resolve interdepartmental conflicts efficiently

Schedule, Cost & Risk Management

• Maintain project schedules and risk logs with proactive mitigation strategies
• Track project costs, forecasts, and accruals with precision
• Support invoice review and financial close-out processes
• Identify risks early and escalate with recommended mitigation actions
• Analyze project performance data to identify trends and improvement opportunities

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain accurate project data and documentation in required systems
• Provide clear, timely updates on construction progress, risks, and completion status to leadership
• Ensure audit-ready documentation for project close-out
• Prepare executive summaries and performance dashboards for stakeholder review

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Project Management, or equivalent professional experience
• 5+ years of experience managing telecom, fiber, or infrastructure construction projects
• Proven experience coordinating construction vendors and field crews at scale
• Strong organizational, communication, and reporting skills with the ability to influence across teams
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with competing priorities
• Experience with project management tools and construction software systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with OSP (Outside Plant) fiber construction and splicing operations
• Familiarity with telecom construction or provisioning systems
• Project Management certification (PMP, CAPM, or equivalent)
• Experience in a leadership or mentoring capacity
• Knowledge of fiber network architecture and design principles
• Experience in open-access or competitive fiber markets

Role Impact

This role ensures consistent construction execution by maintaining throughput, minimizing field-level delays, and enforcing disciplined schedule and cost control across assigned markets. As a senior leader, you will drive operational excellence, mentor team members, and contribute to the strategic growth of Forged Fiber's network infrastructure.

What We Look For in a Candidate

Forged Fiber's culture is built on honesty, respect, trust, transparency, and a growth mindset. We strive to treat people as they want to be treated and to operate with consistency, integrity, customer obsession, and courage. We're looking for top-tier talent to join Forged Fiber who can help us bring this mindset to our everyday work and deliver meaningful results.

Ideal candidates demonstrate:

• Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution capability
• Strong leadership and team development skills
• Problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication abilities
• Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence

Compensation & Benefits

Location-Based Pay Range: $83,000 - $138,000

This range reflects the anticipated base salary for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

Forged Fiber offers a comprehensive benefits package featuring health, life, and voluntary lifestyle benefits along with other perks that enhance your physical, mental, emotional, and financial wellbeing.

What to Expect Next

Background Screening

If you are selected for a position, there will be a background screen, which may include checks for criminal records, motor vehicle reports, and/or drug screening, depending on the position requirements.

Employment Authorization

Forged Fiber 37 Services, LLC participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.

Equal Employment Opportunities

It is the policy of Forged Fiber to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

We do not tolerate unlawful discrimination in any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotion, benefits, discipline, termination, job assignments, or training. In addition, Forged Fiber will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and is a fair chance employer that does not initiate a background check until after an offer is made.

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