Optical Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Posting End Date

06-12-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date

Job Summary

The Telecom Technician Apprentice III is an entry-level apprentice position to gain practical work experience in the telecommunications field. The Apprentice III will assist with entry to basic level installation, maintenance, repair or replacement, testing, and inspection of various Telecommunications equipment, systems, and infrastructure. This role will work to gain knowledge and understanding of various Telecommunications technologies, business processes, and business partner requirements; and will work to gain knowledge of emerging technologies. The Apprentice III will perform these tasks under immediate supervision by a higher-level technician and will adhere to standard practices and procedures.

Job Description

What You'll Do:

Assist with entry to basic level installation, acceptance testing, and documentation of various Telecommunications related equipment and systems. (May assist in performing higher level work.)

Assist with entry to basic level troubleshooting and system testing, maintenance, and repair of electronic and optical equipment, infrastructure, and systems. (May assist in performing higher level work.)

Maintain accurate records, reports, drawings, and other data required for all work performed. Maintain inventory.

Inspect and maintain test equipment, tools, automotive equipment and safety/protective equipment in good working order and compliance.

Demonstrate the ability to read, understand, and update electronic and electrical prints, diagrams, and asset records related to Telecom equipment and technologies.

Demonstrate the ability to operate tools and other equipment necessary to perform job duties.

Assist others as requested or assigned.

Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, NERC CIP and environmental compliance and practices.

Respond to emergency callouts as required.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Successfully complete all assigned training.

The Technician Apprentice III must develop a working knowledge of entry to basic level technical support skills in at least one of the following technology examples, as assigned by leader:

• Transmission and Distribution station data networks, SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition), distribution automation systems, smart grids, and telecom for other utility systems.
• Generation and Renewables facilities telecom voice and data systems.
• Transport systems, such as microwave radio, fiber optic, and other transport/wireless systems.
• Land Mobile Radio System: P25 site electronics and mobile radio installation, support and programming, and RF antenna systems.
• Fiber optic cables, fiber splicing, testing, and termination/connecting methods.
• AC/DC electrical power systems, including basic understanding of circuits and components of distribution and transmission stations and networks.
• Telecom wiring and cabling requirements, installation methods, and industry standard practices.
• Networking systems that include routers, switches, wireless access points, and related devices.
• Infrastructure support equipment and facilities such as DC chargers/rectifiers, batteries, UPS systems, generators, transfer panels, security and monitoring, HVAC, grounding and signal cabling, site access roads, site yards, fences and gates, shelters, towers, and antenna systems.
• Specialized support of centers such as transmission and distribution dispatch centers and control centers, customer call centers, data centers and other specialized locations.

What You'll Need:

Minimum High school diploma or GED. Prefer Associate degree, or equivalent 2-year technical degree, in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field; or military training/experience in related technology field.

Must demonstrate ability to understand and aptitude to learn entry level technical support skills. This is an entry-level position.

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Exhibit AEP competencies that are always expected of every employee. A positive attitude, respectful behavior, and genuine support for teammates and leaders are necessary.
• A strong electronics / telecommunications aptitude is desired and essential to success.
• Overnight travel and daily travel for work as required.
• Be adaptable to work schedules and priorities that may change.
• Be available for call-out and planned overtime as necessary to support our 24x7 operation.
• Demonstrate computer and application skills needed to perform assigned Telecom work and documentation. Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.

Physical demand level is Heavy, and may include lifting, carrying, and installing/removing heavy items up to 60 lbs. such as electronic and optical equipment, racks, test equipment, tools, cables and terminals, and other items required to support projects and operational activities at all job locations.

Salary: $32.03

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you.

#APCO

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

U091-985

Compensation Range:

$32.03 - $32.03

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M - Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.