Tuesday, February 11, 2020

Jobs in Fiber Optics



There are many different jobs in the field of fiber optics, in many different types of organizations. Each has unique requirements and requires different educational backgrounds.

Installation
Probably the largest number of jobs is represented by installers who build fiber optic networks. Installers must have experience in the process of pulling cables, joining, finishing and testing. Requires more manual dexterity than other jobs, as well as a basic knowledge of how systems work. In addition, installers work with specialized equipment, such as casting joints, OLTS and OTDR, which require in-depth knowledge of their operations and an understanding of how to interpret the test results.

Workers who install fiber optic networks over the telephone, surveillance, CCTV and CATV do much of their outdoor work (what we call outside the factory - OSP facilities), addressing the climate all year round. Sometimes they use large machines that dig ditches and lay and / or pull cables, as well as bucket trucks. Then they bring the ends of the cables to special trucks or trailers, where the cable lengths are joined and tested.
Outdoor facility installations (OSPs) generally require more hardware (and greater knowledge of test tools and equipment). Pullers, splicers, OTDRs and even junction vans are the tools most used by OSP contractors.

Local cabling technologies install cables inside buildings for computer networks, security systems and other building management systems. IT and security networks use a lot of fiber installed inside buildings. Room cabling technologies often install complete structured cabling systems that include copper (often called "Cat 5") and fiber, in addition to providing connections and sometimes installing wireless access points.
The installation cables are routed through conduits or placed on walkways and then terminated in the communication rooms. Local installers may have experience in electricity, so a contractor can install power and communication cables. Local installers may only need a termination kit to connect the connectors and a simple test kit for installation. Working above the ceiling or in offices or communication rooms packed with telecommunications is the norm.
FTTH technicians install fiber from local areas directly in the house. Some use standard OSP installation practices and others install pre-terminated cables that only require connection to network equipment.

FOA certifications focus on installation work: CFOT certifications (certified fiber optic technician), CPCT (wiring technician for certified installations) and various CFOS certifications (certified fiber optic specialist).


Education / teaching
Optical fibers, like any fast-growing technology, need well-trained workers. Some of these workers are trained in technical schools, both in high schools and universities, where general courses prepare you for almost all aspects of optical fiber. Some are formed by specialized schools in adult education, generally focused on specific applications, such as the underground installation of telecommunication cables from underground systems, in which the instructors generally have experience in the sector. All of these programs need qualified teachers. A qualified teacher will know the material you are teaching, preferably from personal experience, and will have the necessary skills to teach it to students. Since all training includes practical seminars for developing skills in relevant processes, it is important that a teacher has these skills and knows how to teach them to others.

Fiber Optic Component and System Designers
Most of those who design fiber optic components have at least a degree. For components like connectors, it would be in mechanical engineering. Optical components, such as fibers, require knowledge of optics and materials; many designers will have training in physics, chemistry or materials. If you want to develop lasers or photodetectors, you must have experience in solid state physics. The transceiver design involves a combination of electronic components and optical fibers.
Fiber optic system designers are generally electronic engineers who are familiar with digital communication systems. Fiber optic components are used as integrated circuits to develop these communication systems.

Manufacturing Fiber Optic Components and Systems
Installations where fiber optic components (fiber, cable, connectors, hardware, tools or test equipment) are manufactured require highly skilled workers. They can use multimillion-dollar machines that manufacture precision components and use sophisticated tools to test product quality.
Production jobs will have different requirements, depending on the technical nature of the job. Some require manual skills, while others may require advanced technical education to understand complicated production processes and ensure proper operation.

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