Field Technician DC

Company

Cogent Communications is a global Tier 1 facilities‑based ISP, consistently ranked as one of the top five networks in the world and is publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the ticker symbol CCOI. Cogent specializes in providing businesses with high‑speed Internet access and Ethernet transport services. Its all‑optical IP network backbone delivers IP services worldwide, enabling large‑bandwidth connections at highly competitive prices while offering superior customer support through end‑to‑end service delivery and network monitoring.

A competitive base salary and a full benefits package are provided, including health, dental, vision, paid time off (PTO), short‑ and long‑term disability, life insurance, holidays, parental leave, a 401(k) plan with employer match, stock options, and an employee assistance program. Most benefits take effect within 30 days of employment, with some requiring a waiting period.

Starting / Initial Base Salary Pay Range: $54,000 – $90,000 yearly (approximately $25.96 – $43.27 hourly). Specific offers within the listed pay ranges are determined by experience, education, skills, certifications, and business needs.

• Install network elements within Cogent Communications locations (data centers, POPs, hubs).
• Turn‑up and test new customer circuits at Cogent data centers, carrier‑neutral datacenters, and multitenant office buildings; document and communicate changes.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and turn‑up fiber‑optic networks.
• Work flexible hours based on network maintenance requirements.
• Respond to and resolve network outages and impairments.
• Drive the implementation of metro network augmentation and expansion projects.
• Select, manage, and train vendors on network support and construction activities.
• Coordinate with building managers and vendors to install network nodes and construct/modify risers within Class A office buildings.
• Advise field managers and executives on construction project status.
• Consult with Network Planning and Customer Service Delivery teams to provide field perspective and expertise to network deployments.
• Work with AC and DC power systems.
• Maintain proficiency in current and evolving technological developments in power systems, telecommunications infrastructure, fiber, CWDM and DWDM technologies.

• Working knowledge of network architectures and telecom infrastructure, including fiber networks.
• Proficiency in telecommunications test equipment: optical power meters (OPM – OLS), OTDR, OSA, Ethernet/IP testers; interpretation of test results.
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• High‑energy individual with interpersonal skills to work effectively with others, motivate peers, and drive projects to completion.
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills.
• Successful project‑management experience.
• 4–15 years of telecommunications experience with fiber transmission equipment, including 3+ years field experience.
• Experience managing vendors and carriers.
• Familiarity with telco operations.
• Sound technical skills, analytical ability, and judgment.
• Associate’s degree or higher in a technical field, or equivalent experience, training, and education.
• Travel 25 %.
• Reside within the greater Richmond, VA region.

Cogent has adopted a mandatory vaccination and booster policy that requires all U.S. employees to be fully vaccinated, including one booster shot against COVID‑19. Prior to beginning employment, new employees must provide proof of vaccination or apply for and receive an accommodation to be exempt from the policy.

To apply for the Outside Plant Engineer position, please submit your resume and cover letter to

Cogent Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer.