Layer 1 Cabling Technician
TLDR
This role requires a strong mix of hands-on technical expertise and strict procedural execution to support critical data center cutovers and network migrations.
Layer 1 Cabling Technician – Data Center Cutovers (Contract)
Role Overview
Work Location & Travel
- Data centers are located nationwide
- Primary base states include: MO, FL, NC, TX, AZ, MA, VA, AL, LA, GA, MN, OH, MI, WI, IA, SC
- Technicians will travel to assigned data center sites as needed
- Typical travel duration is 3–5 days at a time, depending on scope of work
- Travel generally begins Sunday afternoon for maintenance window work
Key Responsibilities
Core Technical Responsibilities
- Read and interpret network diagrams, cut sheets, patching schedules, and MOPs
- Identify and work with copper and fiber cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6A, multimode and single‑mode fiber)
- Perform terminations on jacks, patch panels, and fiber enclosures to specification
- Apply accurate labeling and documentation aligned with design and as‑built standards
- Use test and validation tools (certifiers, OTDRs, light meters, toners) to verify connectivity
- Troubleshoot Layer 1 issues including opens, shorts, reversals, crosstalk, and fiber contamination
Cutover & Migration Support
- Execute cutover activities by strictly following approved Methods of Procedure (MOPs)
- Perform patching and de‑patching tasks in the correct sequence within maintenance windows
- Verify end‑to‑end paths (MDF–IDF–rack–port) prior to changes
- Support rollback procedures when validation fails
- Coordinate live testing with network engineers (connectivity, throughput, failover)
Standards & Quality
- Follow TIA/EIA and BICSI structured cabling best practices
- Maintain proper bend radius, cable support, separation from power, and pathway usage
- Dress racks neatly using Velcro, manage slack appropriately, and preserve airflow
- Adhere to site‑specific standards for labeling, color codes, and cable management
Operational & Safety Expectations
- Follow all job site safety requirements, including PPE, ladder/lift use, and confined space rules
- Manage time effectively to meet milestones during tight maintenance windows
- Maintain accurate redlines and as‑built documentation during and after cutovers
Communication & Collaboration
- Communicate clearly with network engineers, NOC teams, project managers, and on‑site staff
- Escalate issues promptly with concise, accurate status updates
- Remain calm and professional during outages or unexpected challenges
Required Qualifications
- Proven experience in Layer 1 structured cabling within data center or enterprise environments
- Hands‑on experience supporting network cutovers or migrations
- Strong understanding of cabling standards and documentation practices
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and extended maintenance windows as required
- U.S. citizenship required
- Ability to pass background checks for carrier and data center access
- Willingness to obtain NERC compliance upon onboarding
Preferred Skills
- Data center cutover or large‑scale migration experience
- Familiarity with multi‑vendor environments
- Strong attention to detail and procedural discipline
- Comfortable working in high‑pressure, live‑network environments
Equal Opportunity Statement
Qode is a technology-driven platform that transforms how recruiters and candidates connect by leveraging data and automation. Our solutions streamline the hiring process through machine learning, creating private talent pools and automating workflows, ultimately enhancing the quality of candidate evaluation and decision-making. With our no-code tools, we empower organizations to develop tailored recruitment strategies without needing extensive technical skills.
- Industry
- Internet Software & Services