Network Lead - Data Center

Job Summary

DPR Construction is seeking a Network Lead with a minimum of 5 years of telecommunications or data center network installation experience to join our data center division. The Network Lead will oversee the team responsible for physical installation of network devices, including switches, routers, optics, modules, and associated hardware, as well as network patch cord install and patching. This role focuses on ensuring high‑quality rack‑and‑stack execution, network patch cord installation and patching, layer1 circuit audits, port mapping compliance, hardware RMAs, on‑time device provisioning, and strict adherence to dressing and labeling standards. The Network Lead will work closely with the Telecom Project Manager, Superintendent, Project Engineer, Field Engineer, and subcontractors to deliver mission‑critical network infrastructure on schedule and to client specifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the network installation team, ensuring safe, efficient, and high‑quality execution of rack‑and‑stack activities for network switches, gear, modules, optics, and related hardware.
• Oversee network patch cord installation and patching, enforcing client‑approved routing, length management, labeling, and dressing standards.
• Oversee layer1 circuit audits, verifying physical connectivity, port mapping accuracy, and cross‑connect compliance with design documents and client requirements.
• Manage port mapping processes, ensuring accurate tracking, documentation, and updates in client tools.
• Oversee hardware RMA processes, identifying faulty equipment, initiating returns, tracking replacements, and minimizing downtime impact.
• Oversee contractor performance to ensure on‑time device provisioning, verifying readiness and aligning installation schedules with operational turnover requirements.
• Enforce dressing, labeling, and containment standards for all network cabling, patch cords, and equipment to meet client aesthetic, performance, and maintainability expectations.
• Conduct regular quality inspections of network device installations and patch cord runs, validating alignment with specifications, proper grounding, power connections, and optic cleanliness.
• Monitor and enforce ROJ (Required On‑Job) dates for all network devices to guarantee in‑time arrival and readiness.
• Participate in pre‑installation and coordination meetings to resolve conflicts, review port maps, and confirm installation sequences.
• Oversee troubleshooting means and methods for physical layer issues during installation and turnover.
• Coordinate with the Superintendent and subcontractors for material staging, equipment delivery, and access requirements specific to network hardware.
• Maintain accurate as‑built documentation for network installations, including red‑lines, test results, and handover packages.
• Promote a “safety first” culture within the network team, assisting the safety team to ensure compliance with site protocols and local regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support project and company objectives.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in telecommunications or data center network installation, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role overseeing rack‑and‑stack, device provisioning, or physical layer network activities.
• Working knowledge of network device installation (switches, routers, optics, modules) and physical layer standards; experience with layer1 circuit audits, port mapping, and cross‑connect verification.
• Proficiency in client port mapping and tracking tools and strong understanding of dressing, labeling, and containment standards for mission‑critical environments.
• Familiarity with fiber optic handling, inspection, and basic testing (OTDR/OLTS reference setting, loss verification).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Smartsheets, and Bluebeam.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate installation teams, enforce quality standards, and coordinate with multiple trades.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interface with client teams, subcontractors, and internal staff on technical and scheduling matters.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for physical layer issues and the ability to resolve installation conflicts quickly.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, track hardware status, and maintain accurate documentation.
• Self‑motivated with a professional demeanor, strong work ethic, and a “can‑do” attitude.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with client‑specific network provisioning and turnover processes in hyperscale data centers.
• Familiarity with Division27 specifications and client‑specific network deployment guidelines.
• Experience leading equipment cutovers, migrations, or refreshes.
• Certifications such as BICSITECH, CorningTS‑LAN‑500, or equivalent.

Driving and Certifications

• Certified Splicer Performance Test Equipment Certified BICSI Tech or equivalent, CorningTS‑LAN‑500.
• Must meet DPR’s minimum driving standards.
• Must be able to secure a company‑sponsored American Express card.

Additional Information

• This position is salaried.
• The Network Lead will report to the Telecom Project Manager and work closely with the Superintendent, Project Engineer, Field Engineer, and subcontractors to deliver high‑quality network device installations for data center projects.
• This role is 100% on‑site; candidate can be based in any location where DPR Construction has an office.
• Weekly travel to project location in Monroe, LA. is required.
• Competitive per diem and travel incentives offered.

Equal Opportunity Employer

DPR is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions at DPR are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical or mental disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. DPR will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. Read more in our EEOE Policy.