Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Fiber Network Planner

🎯 Role Definition

As a Fiber Network Planner, you are the architect of our digital expansion. You'll be at the forefront of our mission to deliver lightning-fast, reliable internet by designing the physical fiber optic routes that form the backbone of our network. This is more than just drawing lines on a map; it's a strategic role that involves intricate problem-solving, collaboration with diverse teams, and navigating real-world complexities. Your work will directly impact our ability to grow, innovate, and provide essential services to thousands of customers. If you're ready to make a tangible impact and build infrastructure that lasts, this is the opportunity for you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

GIS Technician
CAD Drafter
OSP Field Technician
Junior Network Engineer

Advancement To:

Senior Fiber Network Planner
Network Design Engineering Manager
OSP Project Manager
Director of Network Planning

Lateral Moves:

GIS Analyst / Specialist
Network Capacity Planner
Telecom Project Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Develop detailed, end-to-end fiber optic network designs, including High-Level Designs (HLD) and Low-Level Designs (LLD) for Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) and Fiber-to-the-Business (FTTB) projects.
Utilize advanced GIS software (such as ArcGIS, QGIS, 3-GIS) to meticulously plan, map, and manage optimal fiber routes, splice locations, and customer connection points.
Create comprehensive construction prints, splice diagrams, and as-built documentation to guide installation crews and maintain impeccable network records for future reference.
Prepare and manage all necessary permitting applications, including right-of-way (ROW), pole attachment, railroad, and environmental permits, ensuring full compliance with jurisdictional requirements.
Conduct thorough field surveys and site walks to validate proposed routes, identify potential construction obstacles, and gather critical data for precise and cost-effective design.
Generate detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) and accurate cost estimates for network deployment projects, ensuring alignment with budget constraints and strategic financial goals.
Collaborate closely with Outside Plant (OSP) engineering, construction teams, and project managers to ensure design feasibility and facilitate a smooth project lifecycle from planning to activation.
Perform network capacity planning and data-driven forecasting to support future growth, service area expansion, and the integration of next-generation technologies like XGS-PON.
Interface directly with utility companies, municipalities, and other key stakeholders to coordinate joint trenching opportunities, resolve conflicts, and foster positive working relationships.
Analyze existing network infrastructure to pinpoint opportunities for optimization, augmentation, and rehabilitation, thereby improving overall network reliability and operational efficiency.
Ensure all network designs account for critical factors like diversity and redundancy to meet and exceed Service Level Agreement (SLA) requirements for enterprise and wholesale clients.
Review and approve designs, work orders, and change requests submitted by third-party vendors and contractors, guaranteeing adherence to our stringent standards and specifications.
Maintain the absolute integrity of our geospatial database, ensuring all network assets and their attributes are accurately recorded and updated throughout the project lifecycle.

Secondary Functions

Serve as the internal subject matter expert for fiber network architecture, providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members and other departments.
Work proactively with sales and marketing teams to provide rapid feasibility analysis and preliminary cost estimates for potential new service areas and high-value enterprise customers.
Evaluate and recommend new technologies, materials, and design methodologies to continuously enhance network performance, reduce deployment costs, and maintain a competitive edge.
Develop and document internal network design standards, technical specifications, and best-practice guidelines to ensure consistency and quality across all projects.
Respond to and resolve complex design-related issues that arise during the construction phase, providing timely, innovative, and effective solutions to keep projects on track.
Create and present detailed project plans, progress reports, and in-depth design reviews to senior management and key stakeholders.
Manage fiber allocation and assignments within the network database, ensuring efficient utilization of available optical resources.
Participate in the quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) process for all design deliverables, both internal and external.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

High proficiency in GIS software for network planning, such as ArcGIS, QGIS, 3-GIS, Vetro, or Smallworld.
Expertise in FTTx network architectures (GPON, XGS-PON) and a deep understanding of OSP/ISP design principles.
Experience with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) for creating detailed construction drawings and schematics.
In-depth knowledge of OSP construction techniques, including aerial, buried, and underground installation methods.
Proven ability to prepare and navigate the complex permitting process with municipalities, utility companies, and state/federal agencies.
Strong experience in creating detailed Bill of Materials (BOM), cost estimates, and managing project budgets.
Ability to read, interpret, and create technical documentation, including network diagrams, splice sheets, and as-built records.

Soft Skills

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a talent for navigating complex technical and logistical challenges.
Meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to accuracy in all design and documentation work.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Strong organizational and time-management capabilities to effectively prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
A collaborative mindset with a proven ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and with external partners.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree or an Associate's degree with equivalent, relevant work experience.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's degree in a technical or related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Telecommunications)
Geography / Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Construction Management
Information Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of direct experience in telecommunications, with a focus on fiber optic network design and planning.

Preferred:

Direct, hands-on experience planning large-scale FTTH/FTTP projects from conception through to completion is highly desirable. Experience with both urban and rural deployment challenges is a significant plus.