Associate Lineman Fiber Technician

The Westfield Gas and Electric is looking to hire a full time Associate Lineman Fiber Technician. (min $40.96-max $49.12)

The Associate Lineman Fiber Technician will work in many residential areas during normal business hours but may also work in small business settings. They often drive to many assignments throughout the day and are expected to be physically fit and able to work in small, tight spaces for long periods of time. Under supervision, assists in the less complex duties involved in the installation, maintenance, operation and repair of electronic equipment. May also work from a schematic and test, adjust, modify or repair various electronic components as well as perform other related duties. The main role of a Associate Lineman Fiber Technician is to design, build, and maintain communications systems.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

· Note differences in wire and cable colors so that work can be performed correctly.

· Test circuits and components of malfunctioning telecommunications equipment to isolate sources of malfunctions, using test meters, circuit diagrams, and other hand tools.

· Test repaired, newly installed, or updated equipment to ensure that it functions properly and conforms to specifications, using test equipment and observation.

· Drive crew trucks to and from work areas.

· Inspect equipment on a regular basis in order to ensure proper functioning.

· Repair or replace faulty equipment.

· Remove and remake connections in order to change circuit layouts, following work orders or diagrams.

· Demonstrate equipment to customers and explain how it is to be used, and respond to any inquiries or complaints.

· Analyze test readings, computer printouts, and trouble reports to determine equipment repair needs and required repair methods.

· Adjust or modify equipment to enhance equipment performance or to respond to customer requests.

· Request support from technical service centers when on-site procedures fail to solve installation or maintenance problems.

· Remove loose wires and other debris after work is completed.

· Assemble and install communication equipment such as data communication lines, wiring, switching equipment, wiring frames, power apparatus, computer systems, and networks.

· Communicate with bases, using telephones or two-way radios to receive instructions or technical advice, or to report equipment status.

· Program computerized switches and switchboards to provide requested features.

· Diagnose and correct problems from remote locations, using special switchboards to fmd the sources of problems.

· Maintain computer and manual records pertaining to facilities and equipment.

· Install updated software, and programs that maintain existing software and/or provide requested features such as time-correlated call routing.

· Collaborate with other workers in order to locate and correct malfunctions.

· Review manufacturer’s instructions, manuals, technical specifications, building permits, and ordinances in order to determine communication equipment requirements and procedures.

· Test connections to ensure that power supplies are adequate and that communications links function.

· Climb ladders, use truck-mounted booms, and enter areas such as manholes and cable vaults, in order to install, maintain, or inspect equipment.

· Refer to manufacturers’ manuals to obtain maintenance instructions pertaining to specific malfunctions.

· Designate cables available for use.

· Run wires between components and to outside cable systems, connecting them to wires from utility poles or underground cable accesses.

· Remove and replace plug-in circuit equipment.

· Enter codes needed to correct electronic switching system programming.

· Perform database verifications, using computers.

· Route and connect cables and lines to switches, switchboard equipment, and distributing frames, using wire-wrap guns or soldering irons to connect wires to terminals.

· Clean and maintain tools, test equipment, and motor vehicles.

· Address special issues or situations, such as illegal or unauthorized use of equipment, or cases of electrical or acoustic shock.

· Examine fiberoptic facilities to determine requirements for new or additional services.

· Determine viability of sites through observation, and discuss site locations and construction requirements with customers.

· Perform routine maintenance on equipment.

· Measure distances from landmarks to identify exact installation sites for equipment.

· Dig holes or trenches as necessary for equipment installation and access.

· Provide input into the design and manufacturing of new equipment.

· Assists and backs up the duties of the Communications Engineer

· Acts as Groundman for Electric Lineman crew (backup).

· Assists in the installation and removal of wood poles in energized areas (backup)

· Maintains traffic lights.

· Flags traffic if necessary

· Use of underground locating equipment to locate gas, electric, and telecommunications equipment for the purposes of the Massachusetts “Dig Safe” program.

· Goodwill work to the City as directed including hanging and removal of banners, Christmas lights, flags, assisting other City departments, etc.

Qualifications and Entrance Requirements

· Working knowledge of all of the above.

· Exceptional customer service and communication skills

· Knowledge of a fiberoptic networking system, related to installation and repair.

· Hoisting Engineers License and backhoe operating license or ability to secure within 18 months of appointment.

· Become operator qualified in appropriate areas within 6 months of appointment as required by Department of Transportation (DOT).

· Know and understand use of volt meters and ammeters

· Ability to express concepts and information verbally, and in written form.

· Massachusetts Class B CDL Driver’s License.

· Successful applicant must not be color blind, or have a fear of heights.

Exertional Requirements

· Requires ability to frequently lift 75 Ibs, and carry 50 lbs unrestricted while walking and standing.

· Must be able to operate trucks, heavy equipment, specialized line/utility equipment and to climb poles.

· Must be able to walk, climb and work from ladders or other aerial equipment at various heights, on uneven and slippery surfaces, performing manual/physically demanding work while handling dangerous equipment or material.

· Requires good balance to climb and perform repairs.

· Must be able to tolerate cold and hot temperatures as well as extreme weather conditions.

· Must be able to tolerate extended hours during emergency conditions.

· Requires ability to reach above shoulder level and lift equipment, tools or materials overhead.

· Requires twisting, kneeling and bending associated with tasks performed in the field.

· Requires ability to work in confined spaces for extended periods of time.

· Requires the ability to work a reasonable amount of overtime.

A very generous benefit package accompanies job offer, although relocation services are not provided. Please, no phone calls. Candidates are requested to complete an application found online. Employment applications will be accepted through July 7, 2025.