Communications Cable Plant Specialist

Communications Cable Plant Specialist
Hattiesburg, MS, United States
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req5324 Posted on: 5/15/2026 Communications Cable Plant Specialist The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Communications Cable Plant Specialist. Position Details
Location Hattiesburg 118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division iTech Administration
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Part Time
Grant Funded No
Pay Grade Generic Grade Posting Close Date Five Days After Posted Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). Job Summary
This position is for temporary employment within iTech, responsible for documenting, maintaining, and verifying the University's indoor and outdoor telecommunications infrastructure, including fiber optic, copper, and structured cabling systems. Duties include mapping and updating cable plant records, documenting pathways and termination points, performing field verification of existing infrastructure, supporting utility locate activities, and maintaining accurate telecommunications documentation to support operations, maintenance, planning, and emergency response efforts. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Document and maintain accurate records of indoor and outdoor fiber optic, copper, and structured cabling infrastructure. Map and update telecommunications pathways, splice points, termination locations, handholes, manholes, conduits, and telecommunications rooms. Perform field verification of existing cable plant infrastructure and reconcile discrepancies between physical infrastructure and system documentation. Track and document additions, removals, modifications, and repairs to telecommunications infrastructure. Label, identify, and trace copper and fiber optic cabling to ensure accurate system records and connectivity documentation. Minimum Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent.
Minimum of 10 years of experience with fiber optic cabling plants.
Minimum of 10 years of experience with outdoor copper cabling infrastructure.
Minimum of 10 years of experience with Category 5, 6, or 7 indoor ethernet cabling systems. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Extensive knowledge of fiber optic cabling systems, including outside plant infrastructure, splice enclosures, patch panels, backbone distribution, and fiber termination standards. Extensive knowledge of outdoor copper cabling systems, underground distribution methods, cross-connects, bonding, grounding, and maintenance practices. Extensive knowledge of Category 5, Category 6, and Category 7 structured cabling systems, including installation standards, testing procedures, and troubleshooting techniques. Knowledge of telecommunications industry standards, codes, and best practices related to copper and fiber optic infrastructure.
Ability to accurately document fiber optic, copper, and structured cabling infrastructure using mapping systems, diagrams, databases, and record management tools.
Ability to maintain detailed and accurate records of cable routes, splice points, termination locations, pathways, handholes, manholes, telecommunications rooms, and associated infrastructure.
Skill in identifying, tracing, labeling, and documenting telecommunications cabling for operational, maintenance, and emergency response purposes.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications
Experience documenting and managing outside plant fiber optic and copper network records
Fiber optic certification or specialized training in fiber splicing, testing, or outside plant design.
Experience responding to utility locate requests and coordinating underground infrastructure protection activities.
Advanced knowledge of structured cabling standards, telecommunications pathways, and network infrastructure design.
Proficiency with fiber optic testing equipment, OTDR analysis, and cable certification tools. About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.