Posted: 12h ago
The role
Job Description
Position Title
Test Engineer – Repeatered Submarine Fibre Optic System
Location
Offshore aboard Cable Installation Vessel (US Waters)
Contract Type
Project-Based / Offshore Rotation
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Test Engineer to join a cable installation vessel, supporting the deployment of a repeatered submarine fibre optic cable system. The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring and testing the optical transmission system throughout the installation activities, to ensure the integrity and performance of the cable system, and providing timely reporting of any anomalies or faults.
The candidate will work closely with marine operations, installation teams, terminal station personnel, and project management, playing a critical role in maintaining system performance during all phases of cable deployment.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate and monitor submarine cable transmission equipment during cable installation activities.
- Perform continuous end-to-end system performance monitoring throughout installation operations.
- Analyse optical and transmission parameters to identify any potential issues, degradations, or faults.
- Maintain records of test results, system performance, and installation milestones.
- Prepare daily test reports and communicate findings to the system engineering team.
- Provide technical support during jointing, lay, repair, and commissioning activities as required.
- Liaise with shore-based network operations, terminal station personnel, and equipment vendors.
- Escalate and document any transmission impairments or abnormal system behaviour.
- Ensure all testing activities are carried out in accordance with project procedures, customer requirements, and safety regulations.
- Support fault localisation and troubleshooting efforts should system issues arise during installation.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- Degree, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in Telecommunications, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
- Experience working with submarine fibre optic cable systems, optical transmission systems, or DWDM equipment.
- Familiarity with repeatered submarine cable architectures, such as repeaters, branching units, Universal Joints, along with the associated testing methodologies.
- Experience operating optical test and transmission monitoring equipment.
- Strong understanding of fibre optic communications principles.
- Ability to interpret test results and troubleshoot transmission-related issues.
- Experience working in offshore, marine, or vessel-based environments.
- Ability to work independently in a remote offshore environment.
Essential Requirements
- Valid passport with the ability to travel internationally.
- Must hold a valid US visa and be legally permitted to enter and work from a vessel operating in United States waters.
- Current offshore medical and BOSIET (or equivalent) certification.
- Willingness to work rotational offshore assignments and extended periods at sea.
- Compliance with all vessel safety and security requirements.
Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of OTDR testing and optical performance monitoring.
- Familiarity with major submarine cable vendors and transmission platforms.
- Previous experience supporting cable installation, maintenance, or repair campaigns.
Duration
Project-specific contract starting in July 2026, with potential for extension depending on operational requirements.
