Optical Assistant Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

National Technologies (NTI), a Network Connex Company, is a premier turnkey installer of fiber optic and data center infrastructure. Working on our team puts you on the leading edge of innovation in the digital communications space.

If being a part of a tight-knit organization that operates in some of the most advanced technology environments around the world sounds like a dream job, NTI might be the right fit for you! With the perks of a large organization, NTI remains true to its roots as a home-grown company with an open door culture that welcomes new ideas and encourages professional growth. We set you on the right path with careful onboarding and thorough training programs that prepare you for success in your role and beyond.

Job Summary:

NTI is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Fiber Splicer to join our team in a union position under IBEW Local 20. The Fiber Splicer will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of high-count fiber optic cables, ensuring optimal performance of telecommunications networks. This role requires advanced technical expertise in fusion splicing, testing, and troubleshooting, with a focus on working with live fiber networks during maintenance windows. Candidates must have a proven track record of splicing and testing for Zayo and other dark fiber providers, along with extensive experience using Fujikura fusion splicing machines, EXFO testing equipment, and FastReporter software.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Fiber Splicing and Installation:
  • Perform fusion splicing on high-count fiber cables, including 864ct, 1728ct, and 3456ct, with precision and adherence to industry standards.
  • Execute mid-sheath (ring-cut) splicing on high-count fiber cables to support network expansions and repairs.
  • Conduct live fiber network splicing during designated maintenance windows to minimize service disruptions.
  • Install fiber optic cables in various environments, including underground, aerial, and indoor settings.
• Testing and Troubleshooting:
  • Perform Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) testing to evaluate fiber optic cable integrity and performance.
  • Conduct Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS) testing to measure signal loss and ensure network reliability.
  • Troubleshoot live/active network fiber issues, identifying and resolving faults to maintain service continuity.
  • Generate detailed FastReporter reports to document test results, splicing activities, and network performance for client submission.
• Equipment and Software Proficiency:
  • Operate Fujikura fusion splicing machines to achieve low-loss splices on high-count fiber cables.
  • Utilize EXFO testing equipment for accurate OTDR and OLTS testing, ensuring compliance with client specifications.
  • Leverage FastReporter software to produce comprehensive reports for network documentation and quality assurance.
• Additional Technical Tasks:
  • Pull fiber optic cables through conduits, ducts, or other pathways to support network installations.
  • Assist in bolting telecommunications cabinets to secure infrastructure components (preferred skill).
  • Install basket trays to organize and protect cabling systems (preferred skill).
  • Operate scissor lifts safely for aerial or elevated work (preferred skill).
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Adhere to all safety protocols, including OSHA regulations and NTI’s safety standards, to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Maintain a clean workspace and follow proper handling procedures for fiber optic materials and equipment.
  • Complete required documentation for splicing, testing, and maintenance activities in accordance with company and client standards.
• Work Schedule and Environment:
  • Work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions, adapting to project requirements.
  • Perform tasks during daytime and occasional nighttime maintenance windows as required by client schedules.
  • Stand for extended periods (8-10 hours per day) and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.

Education and Experience:

• Experience with Dark Fiber Providers:
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of verifiable experience splicing and testing fiber optic cables for Zayo and other dark fiber providers, with a demonstrated ability to meet stringent quality and performance standards.
• Equipment and Software Expertise:
  • At least 3 years of hands-on experience using Fujikura fusion splicing machines for high-count fiber splicing (864ct, 1728ct, 3456ct).
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience performing OTDR and OLTS testing with EXFO testing equipment, ensuring accurate diagnostics and reporting.
  • At least 2 years of experience producing FastReporter reports for network documentation, with proficiency in analyzing and presenting test data.
• Technical Skills and Knowledge:
  • Proven ability to perform mid-sheath (ring-cut) splicing on high-count fiber cables.
  • Familiarity with live fiber network splicing during maintenance windows to ensure minimal service disruption.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for diagnosing and resolving issues on live/active network fiber.
  • Experience in cable pulling to support fiber optic network installations (required).
  • Knowledge of cabinet bolting techniques (preferred).
  • Familiarity with installing basket trays for cable management (preferred).
  • Experience operating scissor lifts for elevated work (preferred).
• Physical and Environmental Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Ability to travel nationally. The average rotation is 10 days out, 5 days home.
  • Capability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand for 8-10 hours per day and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Background and Compliance:
  • Must pass a clean background check and drug screen as a condition of employment.
  • Fluency in English for effective communication with team members and clients.
• Union Affiliation:
  • This is a union position under IBEW Local 20, requiring adherence to union agreements, policies, and benefits structures.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in fiber optic splicing or testing (e.g., FOA CFOT, BICSI, or equivalent).
• Prior experience working on projects for major telecommunications carriers or dark fiber providers beyond Zayo.
• Familiarity with additional fiber optic testing tools or software beyond EXFO and FastReporter.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

Benefits:

• Competitive union wages and benefits package through IBEW Local 20, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced fiber optic technologies.
• Access to a supportive union environment with representation and advocacy.
• Collaborative and safety-focused work culture at NTI.

NTI provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance and retirement savings options. For Union employees, pay rates and benefit levels are determined by union classifications which are set by the union.

National Technologies (NTI) believes all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants because of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, domestic partnership status, ancestry, religion, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, disability, veteran status, age or any other protected group status. Upon acceptance of an offer, all candidates will be required to pass a background check and drug screening.