CENTRAL OFFICE TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION

A Central Office Technician keeps physical telephone exchange infrastructure running. The role spans switching equipment, fiber optic transport, and DC power systems within a wireline carrier environment, requiring compliance with CPNI regulations and adherence to Telcordia and carrier-specific installation standards. Technicians answer directly to network operations or field service management and are the hands-on owners of circuit provisioning, defect diagnosis, and equipment installation. Without this seat filled competently, service orders stall and network outages go unresolved.

As the Central Office Technician, you install, provision, test, and maintain the switching systems and transport circuits that keep wireline telephone and data services operational for residential and business customers. You work within a network operations or field services team, coordinating daily with outside plant personnel, front office staff, and carrier representatives across multiple exchange locations.

Career Impact: Hands-on experience provisioning DS1, DS3, SONET, and DWDM circuits positions Central Office Technicians as credentialed specialists in a field where carrier-grade competency is verified and portable across major US operators.

Business Impact: When this technician diagnoses a switching fault or restores a fiber route, real customer services return to operation, measured in hours off an outage clock that carriers report publicly.

Growth Opportunity: Proficiency across at least two of the four major technician disciplines, Transmission, Switching, TCP/IP, and Outside Plant, opens pathways to senior field engineer and network operations center roles.

• Maintain records of cable pairs, telephone numbers, and switch assignments across multiple exchange locations to support accurate service order processing.
• Process service orders for circuit installation, disconnection, and feature changes within defined provisioning timelines.
• Install frame and rack builds, ladder rack pathways, and fiber optic cable management systems to carrier and Telcordia standards.
• Diagnose and repair defects in switching systems, circuit equipment, network terminal equipment, and DC power infrastructure using electronic test equipment.
• Provision and test SONET, Ethernet, and DWDM services, including CPE equipment, signaling, and private line circuits.
• Monitor network routes and execute service restoration during outages, responding proactively to potential failure points.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on critical infrastructure including HVAC systems, high-voltage electrical systems, and DC power plants.
• Document all work performed, update maintenance logs, and provide status reports to operations management and field teams.

• Associate degree in Electronics or equivalent technical trade school training, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of Central Office or wireline field technician experience, with demonstrated proficiency in circuit provisioning and equipment installation.
• Working knowledge of POTS, DS0, DS1/T1, DS3/T3, DSL, and ISDN circuit types and their provisioning requirements.
• Familiarity with CPNI regulations and the ability to maintain customer record confidentiality in accordance with FCC requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, equipment drawings, blueprints, schematics, and method of procedure documents.
• Knowledge of DC power systems including rectifiers, PDUs, BDFBs, inverters, and associated power infrastructure.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to travel between exchange locations as required.
• Ability to work varying shifts including callouts, mandatory overtime, weekends, and holidays on a rotational basis.

• Certification or equivalent training in AFC, Calix DSL systems, Adtran DLC, Fujitsu FO Transport, or Alcatel DSL platforms.
• Experience with major US carriers including AT&T, Verizon, CenturyLink, or T-Mobile, and familiarity with AT&T TP-76300/76400 or Verizon IP72202 installation standards.
• Proficiency in 5ESS Switch maintenance and working knowledge of IOF, SONET, DWDM, ROADM, and IP Ethernet transport technologies.
• Physical ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs, work on ladders and in confined spaces, and travel away from home for extended periods. 

• Circuit provisioning accuracy rate, reflecting the percentage of service orders completed without rework.
• Mean time to restore, measuring how quickly outages are resolved from fault detection to service recovery.
• Trouble ticket closure rate within SLA windows across assigned Central Office locations.
• Preventive maintenance completion percentage against the scheduled inspection calendar each quarter.
• Documentation compliance rate, reflecting how consistently work logs and maintenance records are updated same-day.
• Typical tools: Transport test equipment (commonly OTDR, T-Berd 2310/310, EXFO FTB-200); switching platforms (commonly 5ESS, Electronic Data Switching); DC power infrastructure (commonly rectifiers, PDUs, BDFBs).

• Base Salary Range: $55,000 to $80,000 per year depending on seniority and location.
• Bonus: Annual performance bonus of 3 to 7 percent, common at larger carriers.
• Equity: Not typically offered at this level in wireline operations roles.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard across most US telecom employers.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus federal holidays and shift-differential leave provisions.
• Common Perks: On-call pay, tool and uniform allowances, and tuition reimbursement for relevant technical certifications.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Employment in this role is contingent on successful completion of a background check and verification of authorization to work in the United States. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request.

The Central Office Technician owns the management of cable pair, telephone number, and switch number records while serving as the primary support resource for outside plant and customer service personnel across multiple exchange areas. Working within a telecommunications operations team, this role enables reliable service delivery by processing installation and disconnection orders, assisting with IP/PBX programming, and keeping technicians and front office staff informed.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary source for outside plant and customer service personnel to assist in telephone service orders.
• Maintain records of cable pairs, telephone numbers, and switch numbers for Blair, Ft. Calhoun, Kennard, and Arlington.
• Process service orders for installation, disconnection, and feature changes.
• Assist in IP/PBX programming and trouble tickets.
• Monitor and assist in trouble tickets assigned to the Central Office.
• Assist in special circuit installs, repair, and administer records.
• Provide pertinent information to technicians and front office personnel.
• Assist technicians in clearing troubles and help with cable cut-overs.
• Study various VoIP protocols and keep current with industry technology.

Required Qualifications

• Associates Degree in Electronics or equivalent work experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in the telephone industry.
• Broad knowledge of telephony, IP, and circuits.
• Basic knowledge of DC power and ability to comply with CPNI regulations and procedures.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite with strong computer skills and ability to adapt to changing programs and processes.
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals and use various hand tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work independently and as a team member.

Embedded within a field installation team, the Central Office Technician leads frame and rack builds, cable runs, and fiber optic pathway construction across major carrier networks and OEM equipment platforms. Working closely with project leads and carrier representatives, this role advances network reliability by executing installations to AT&T, Telcordia, and Verizon standards while producing detailed daily documentation.

Core Functions

• Lead various types of installation projects and serve as the installation in-charge person.
• Read and interpret detailed specifications, drawings, blueprints, schematics, and method of procedures.
• Install frame and rack builds, ironwork, ladder rack cable paths, and horizontal and vertical pathways for fiber optic cable management systems.
• Run multiple cable types including coaxial, power, fiber, and network transmission using a variety of connectors and terminating procedures.
• Terminate DC power, rectifiers, PDUs, BDFBs, BDCBBs, inverters, converters, and raycaps associated with telecommunications networks.
• Terminate cables using RJ45 connectors and perform lacing, stitching, and sewing of cables.
• Clean and scope fiber connectors and document light levels and other readings with job-specific testing equipment such as OTDRs.
• Test and evaluate systems to determine efficiency, reliability, and compatibility with existing systems.
• Complete detailed documentation of work performed and provide daily status updates.

Qualifications and Experience

• Electronics training equivalent to 2 years of technical trade school or military school and 6 years of field service, or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Level III Installer with Central Office and CO installer experience.
• Experience with major carriers including AT&T, Verizon, CenturyLink, Sprint, SBC, and T-Mobile.
• Experience installing major OEM equipment including Ciena, Juniper, Cisco, Calix C7, GPON, Fujitsu Flashwave 9500, and Coriant hiT 7300.
• Familiar with AT&T TP-76300/76400, Telcordia GR1275, and Verizon IP72202 installation standards.
• Proficient using laptops, tablets, and various software platforms with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs, work outdoors on ladders and in confined spaces, and travel up to 75% of the time.

Reporting to operations management, the Central Office Technician installs, tests, and repairs complex switching systems, circuit equipment, and network terminal equipment across 5ESS and Electronic Data Switching platforms. Partnering with work teams and managers to maintain status visibility, this role strengthens network uptime by running diagnostic programs, analyzing circuit defects, and provisioning fiber and DSL circuits to defined service standards.

Primary Duties

• Install, maintain, analyze, test, adjust, and repair complex equipment including switching systems, circuit equipment, network terminal equipment, and data and digital equipment.
• Update work and maintenance logs through WFA, Word documents, and FOMS databases.
• Plan jobs and determine materials and resources needed to complete tasks.
• Review and interpret work orders, wiring lists, wiring diagrams, and equipment drawings.
• Utilize knowledge of general input and analysis of ESS translations.
• Run diagnostic test programs and analyze defects on various types of telephone switching equipment including 5ESS and Electronic Data Switching.
• Use various testing devices including volt-ohm meters, spectrum analyzers, digital communications analyzers, and data analyzers.
• Keep work team and managers informed of status on work tasks, projects, and problems.

Skills and Qualifications

• Certification or equivalent training in AFC, Calix DSL systems, Adtran, Fujitsu FO Transport, and Alcatel DSL systems.
• Minimum 12 months of experience within the last 5 years diagnosing circuit trouble and performing routine testing using volt-ohm meters, TDR, or comparable test equipment.
• Minimum 12 months of experience within the last 5 years provisioning and maintaining POTS, DS0, DS1/T1, DS3/T3, DSL, ISDN, and fiber circuits or services.
• Proficient in 5ESS Switch maintenance with working knowledge of IOF, SONET and DWDM equipment and services.
• Experience with ROADM, Infinera, QMOE, and IP Ethernet.
• Valid state driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to work varying shifts including cuts, callouts, mandatory overtime, weekends, and holidays.

Sitting at the intersection of public service and administrative operations, the Central Office Technician processes routine transactions, responds to public inquiries, and maintains accurate paper and electronic records within a county department setting. Operating across counter service, data entry, and cash handling functions, this role ensures residents receive accurate information and timely assistance in accordance with Colorado Revised Statutes and County Policies and Procedures.

Duties

Perform routine clerical duties including answering the telephone, assisting the public at the front counter, and filing.

• Work with the public to fill out forms, applications, and process requests, and respond to inquiries and problems.
• Process routine transactions based on guidelines, policies, and procedures within a designated time frame.
• Perform data entry and assist the public in understanding the necessary flow of procedures.
• Schedule appointments and administer cash transactions and balance the cash drawer accurately.
• Calculate values and costs of routine transactions and collect fees according to department standards.
• Correct, update, and maintain accurate paper and computer records and scan stored documents to appropriate electronic file storage.
• Review and proofread material and verify information for accuracy, completeness, and make corrections as necessary.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent with coursework in general office procedures and business practices.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in an office setting.
• Ability to learn and apply guidelines, policies, procedures, and applicable laws including Colorado Revised Statutes and County Policies and Procedures.
• Fundamental experience with word processing, database manipulation, spreadsheets, and email, and ability to learn position-specific software.
• Ability to perform typing and clerical work with a high degree of accuracy using computers, calculators, telephones, and copiers with scanning and faxing capabilities.
• Strong mathematical skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks, maintain confidentiality, and communicate effectively in written and verbal form.

A key member of the HR and payroll operations team, the Central Office Technician maintains timekeeping and attendance records, processes paycheck adjustments, and ensures compliance with collective bargaining agreements and VTA policies and procedures. Collaborating across departments to resolve discrepancies and support employees, this role produces the accurate payroll documentation that underpins workforce management and regulatory compliance.

Functions

• Enter, verify, and maintain records of time worked, overtime, leaves, and absences.
• Track and ensure accuracy of State Disability Insurance, Workers' Compensation, and related timekeeping records.
• Print and review various timekeeping and attendance reports.
• Enter and retrieve personnel, timekeeping, and attendance data in automated computer systems and other computer-based information systems.
• Research, extract, and compile data for timekeeping and attendance reports and other documentation.
• Prepare spreadsheets for timekeeping and paycheck adjustments, and prepare correspondence, reports, memoranda, and other written materials.
• Proofread and check hardcopy documents and computer entries for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with collective bargaining agreements and VTA policies and procedures.
• Set up, maintain, and revise filing systems and perform filing and file retrieval duties.
• Assist employees by answering questions, distributing forms, and scheduling appointments.
• Receive, sort, and distribute mail, reports, and materials, and order and receive office supplies and equipment.

Experience and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with 2 years of clerical experience including mathematical problem-solving and compiling numerical data.
• Coursework or experience in word processing, database, and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of standard office administrative practices, record keeping, filing, indexing, and cross-referencing.
• Knowledge of applicable collective bargaining agreements and policies and procedures related to timekeeping and attendance.
• Proficient in operating common office equipment including computers, calculators, copy machines, facsimiles, and typewriters.
• Accurate typing at a minimum of 30 wpm with 10-key by touch skills desirable.
• Strong mathematical skills and correct English usage including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Network reliability across Metro and Long Haul routes depends on the Central Office Technician, who installs, provisions, and maintains SONET, DWDM, and Ethernet services while executing fiber locating, splicing oversight, and critical infrastructure inspections. Based within a gateway operations environment and on-call on a rotational basis, this role directly supports service continuity by monitoring routes, managing assets, and restoring circuits during service interruptions.

Accountabilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair customer and network troubles, and remove and replace defective equipment.
• Perform site surveys, fiber locating, and oversee splicing of Metro and Long Haul Outside Plant fibers.
• Monitor routes and execute restoration in the event of service interruptions, and proactively respond to potential problem areas.
• Install, provision, test, and maintain SONET and Ethernet services, DWDM equipment, CPE equipment, signaling, private line, and data services.
• Manage asset management including processing deliveries, replenishing consumables, and coordinating shipping and receiving of materials.
• Perform preventive and scheduled maintenance and inspections on equipment and critical infrastructure including HVAC systems, high-voltage electrical systems, and DC Power Plants.
• Perform Tech escorts, locates, and remote hands at the gateway.

Background and Experience

• 2-5 years of experience in installation, test, and turn-up of telecommunications equipment including SONET, DCS, DWDM, routers, and switches.
• Strong technical and mechanical background with experience on transport gear, critical infrastructure, fiber optic cable locating, right-of-way, and As-Builts.
• High degree of experience in at least two of the four major technician disciplines: Transmission, Switching, TCP/IP, and Outside Plant.
• Proficient with OTDRs, T-Berd 2310/310, PRI Tester, EXFO FTB-1/FTB-200, digital multiplexers, channel banks, and AC and DC power equipment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Windows and Office applications with the ability to quickly learn corporate databases.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to be on-call 24x7 on a rotational basis.