Who We Are:
We are Better Direct, a leader in Value-Added Resell IT services, hardware, and software located in Tempe, AZ. We enjoy serving all 50 states and US Federal offices abroad. We are seeking a skilled and eager Fiber Optic Technician to join our team.
Position Summary:
The Fiber Optic Technician will be responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing fiber optic cable systems at government facilities. This position requires working onsite at secure government locations, ensuring reliable high-speed data transmission for mission-critical operations. The technician must adhere to federal regulations, security protocols, and industry best practices while maintaining classified and sensitive network infrastructures.
Key Responsibilities:
- Install, terminate, splice, and test fiber optic cables in secure government facilities.
- Conduct fiber optic testing using Optical Time-Domain Reflectometers (OTDR), light meters, and other specialized equipment.
- Troubleshoot and repair fiber optic networks to resolve connectivity and performance issues.
- Perform fusion splicing and mechanical splicing for fiber optic cables in compliance with government standards.
- Maintain detailed documentation of installations, maintenance, and repairs following federal compliance guidelines.
- Read and interpret government network schematics, blueprints, and technical diagrams.
- Work closely with government IT and network teams to ensure optimal fiber optic system performance.
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations, including NIST, FISMA, and other cybersecurity policies.
- Follow all security clearance requirements when accessing restricted areas or handling classified network components.
- Operate and maintain fiber optic tools, test equipment, and vehicles as required.
- Adhere to OSHA and government-specific safety standards for working in various environments.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
- U.S. Citizenship is required due to government security clearance requirements.
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance (or ability to obtain clearance).
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree or technical certification preferred.
- 3+ years of experience in fiber optic installation, splicing, and troubleshooting.
- In-depth knowledge of fiber optic principles, structured cabling, and networking for government systems.
- Experience working in secure or classified environments with restricted access protocols.
- Proficiency with OTDR, fusion splicers, power meters, and other fiber optic tools.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Strong documentation skills for compliance with government policies.
- Ability to work in high-security environments, including underground or aerial installations.
- Must be able to lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs and work in confined spaces.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to multiple government sites as needed.
Certification Requirements:
To be a qualified Fiber Optic Technician in a government environment, industry-recognized certifications are required or preferred, such as:
- Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) – Fiber Optic Association (FOA) [Required]
- Covers fiber optic installation, splicing, and testing fundamentals.
- Fiber Optic Installer (FOI) – Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) [Preferred]
- Focuses on fiber optic installation best practices for government and enterprise networks.
- Fiber Optic Technician (FOT) – Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) [Preferred]
- Advanced training in troubleshooting and maintaining government fiber optic networks.
- Certified Fiber Optic Specialist (CFOS) – Fiber Optic Association (FOA) [Preferred]
- Specialties include CFOS/S (Splicing) and CFOS/T (Testing).
- BICSI Installer (INST1/INST2) or RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer) [Preferred]
- Highly valuable for working in secure federal installations.
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification [Preferred]
- Ensures compliance with workplace safety regulations.
- Department of Defense (DoD) Information Assurance Certification (e.g., Security+ if working with classified networks) [May Be Required]
- Necessary for handling government IT and fiber optic infrastructure.
Work Environment & Security Considerations:
- Work primarily in government-secured locations, including military bases, federal buildings, and defense contractor sites.
- Must comply with all federal security protocols and undergo background checks.
- Some assignments may require working in classified or high-security areas.
- Ability to work in various environments, including outdoor, underground, and high-elevation areas.
- Must be willing to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as required by government contracts if required.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
