Lead Field Engineer
Job Purpose
The Lead Field Engineer is responsible for overseeing and performing field data collection on electric plant infrastructure to support fiber optic network builds. This position ensures that all field surveys, measurements, and documentation are accurate and meet the engineering requirements for design and construction. The role applies engineering principles to collect, process, and validate field data for integration into mapping systems and fiber design workflows. The Lead Field Engineer serves as the primary technical liaison between the field crews, engineering team, and project management.
Duties and Responsibilities
Field Data Collection & Verification- Conduct detailed surveys of electric plant infrastructure, including poles, attachments, clearances, guying, and transformers.
- Use engineering methods and field tools to capture GPS coordinates, measurements, photos, and detailed notes.
- Identify and document obstructions or make-ready requirements in compliance with utility standards.
- Lead and coordinate field engineering crews to ensure consistent data collection practices.
- Communicate field findings to engineering and operations staff for design adjustments.
- Support project managers with field status updates and issue resolution.
- Review proposed fiber routes for accuracy against field conditions.
- Recommend adjustments to routes, splice points, and drop locations.
- Provide on-site guidance to construction crews during fiber build activities.
- Ensure all collected data meets project quality standards and integrates correctly with client mapping systems.
- Maintain compliance with safety regulations, pole attachment standards, and permitting requirements.
- Perform as-built verification after construction is complete.
- Maintain organized records of all field surveys, changes, and final configurations.
- Produce detailed reports including maps, photographs, and notes for internal and client use.
Qualifications
Education- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field preferred.
- Proficiency with engineering field data collection processes and GIS/mapping tools.
- Understanding of electric utility plant infrastructure and fiber optic network design principles.
- Knowledge of Make-Ready Engineering (MRE) processes.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, utility maps, and construction documents.
- Extensive travel to project sites with travel rotations up to 10–14 days.
- Overnight hotel stays.
- Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Occasional evening or weekend work based on project deadlines.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Frequent bending, climbing, and reaching during field inspections.
- Field Technicain