Fiber Route Patroller
WFA Digital Insight
Zayo’s Fiber Route Patroller sits at the intersection of field operations and network integrity, offering a hands‑on role that goes beyond routine maintenance. Patrolling long‑haul routes, you’ll be the first line of defense against physical damage, translating field observations into actionable data for engineers. The position leans heavily on technical curiosity—using OTDRs, 10G‑100G testers, and GPS tools—while also demanding strong documentation habits. Because Zayo’s network spans 141,000 miles across North America and Europe, the scope of routes you’ll cover can be extensive, making route‑specific knowledge critical. Candidates who combine solid field experience with a willingness to master fiber‑testing equipment will find the blend of independence and collaborative troubleshooting particularly rewarding.
Job Description
Company Description Zayo provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world’s most impactful companies, fueling the innovations that are transforming our society. Zayo’s 141,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to thousands of buildings and data centers. Zayo’s communications infrastructure solutions include dark fiber, private data networks, wavelengths, Ethernet, and dedicated Internet access. Zayo serves wireless and wireline carriers, media, tech, content, finance, healthcare and other large enterprises. Zayo is seeking a Fiber Route Patroller to join our Field Operations team. This role is designed as a technician-first position, combining hands-on technical skill development with proactive fiber route patrol and damage prevention responsibilities. This role operates with a high degree of independence and serves as a subject matter expert in field technician, damage prevention, route patrol, and locating activities.
Responsibilities
Assist with fiber network activities including testing, troubleshooting, maintenance, and installations. Perform fiber testing including use of 10G–100G test sets, OTDR traces, and Layer 1–Layer 4 validation. Install and support fiber network components including optics, patch cords, and Network Interface Devices (NIDs). Support fault isolation and escalate technical issues, damages, or risks to higher-level technicians. Conduct regular patrols of long-haul fiber routes to identify potential risks, damage, or environmental threats. Perform inspections of fiber infrastructure including cabinets, handholes, and buried cable routes. Support utility locating activities using standard techniques (electrical, magnetic, GPS, and blueprint analysis). Read and interpret maps, prints, and construction drawings to understand fiber placement and risks. Deploy to construction sites to monitor third-party activity near fiber routes and help prevent damage. Assist with documenting field activities, site conditions, and utility data using company systems. Support damage investigations by collecting field data and documenting findings. Maintain network security and site integrity through routine inspections and reporting. Communicate effectively with technicians, engineers, contractors, and internal teams. Ensure compliance with safety standards, including OSHA guidelines and company policies. Operate in both independent and team environments to meet operational goals. Maintain company vehicles, tools, and equipment in accordance with policy. Perform other duties as assigned.Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum of five (5) years of relevant field or construction experience preferred. Basic knowledge of telecommunications, underground utilities, or fiber optic systems preferred. Familiarity with fiber testing equipment (e.g., OTDR, light meters, 10G–100G testers) is a plus. Exposure to Layer 1–Layer 4 testing concepts and network troubleshooting preferred. OSHA or other safety certifications preferred. Ability to learn technical skills related to fiber installation, testing, and maintenance. Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions. Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn. Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company vehicle requirements. Estimated base pay range for this role is $23.41 - $36.00 USD / hour #LI-JD1 The base pay range shown is a guideline and reasonable estimate for this role. It takes into account the wide variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions. Actual compensation offered may vary from the posted range based upon geographic location, work experience, skill level, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Non- sales roles may be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive plan. Sales roles may be eligible to participate in a sales incentive plan. Additionally, this position may be eligible for certain benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, disability retirement plans, paid time off. The posting will be active for a minimum of 3 days. The active posting will continue to extend by 3 days until the position is filled. Benefits, Rewards & Wellness Excellent Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan Generous paid time off policy including paid parental leave Zayo is an equal opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.How to Stand Out
- Highlight any hands‑on experience with OTDRs, light meters, or high‑speed fiber testers in your resume and cover letter.
- Include specific examples of past route‑inspection or damage‑prevention projects, focusing on outcomes and documentation methods.
- Prepare to discuss how you interpret technical drawings and maps; bring a sample of annotated schematics if possible.
- Emphasize safety certifications (OSHA, etc.) and describe how you apply safety protocols in field work.
- During interviews, demonstrate familiarity with GPS and utility‑locating techniques by walking through a typical locating process.
- When negotiating, reference the hourly range provided and ask about remote‑work stipends or mileage reimbursement.
- Watch for vague descriptions of equipment responsibility; ensure the role includes company‑provided tools and vehicle support.
This is a remote position listed on WFA Digital, the platform for professionals who work from anywhere. Browse more remote jobs across all categories.