JCN Fiber Network Program Manager

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking an experienced and innovative JCN Program Manager to lead the design, operation, and strategic development of the Joint Communications Network (JCN) — a 170-mile municipal dark fiber infrastructure supporting high-performance, mission-critical communications.

This essential network connects the City of Cedar Rapids, Linn County, and the Cedar Rapids Community School District, including public safety services such as police and fire. The JCN Program Manager is responsible for managing both the long-term development of the fiber network and the daily operational needs, including direct involvement in network switch configuration and support where it connects to the fiber infrastructure.

This position also plays a key role in cost recovery efforts, ensuring the City is reimbursed when third-party activity damages fiber lines. The role requires coordination with utility providers, public works agencies, and state transportation departments on infrastructure projects, as well as the development of clear procedures for construction and fiber protection in the right-of-way.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About this Opportunity

Architects, implements, manages, and maintains the Joint Communications Network including designing, configuring and installing network switches.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Develops and coordinates the maintenance of the JCN fiber network.

Ability to architect the JCN fiber network, design and implement cost-effective fiber solutions that meet the City and JCN partner’s connectivity needs.

Plans, designs, and coordinates implementation of the JCN fiber network independently or in close collaboration with partners or approved contract agencies

Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with City Engineers, engineering consultants, vendors, JCN Partners and other stakeholders during projects to assess impacts on the fiber network.

Develops and implements policies, procedures, and protocols to support the fiber network operations.

Leads disaster, emergencies, outages, and recovery operations for the JCN fiber network and reviews contractors completed work.

Designs, configures, implements and supports network switches in Data Centers and City owed buildings connecting to the JCN Fiber.

Regularly report on program status, progress, risks, and issue to leadership providing consistent updates.

Proactively identify potential risks and issues across the program, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with technical, safety, and regulatory standards.

Drive continuous improvement in fiber network operations, and processes. Stay up on industry advancements and recommend new solutions to improve network performance and efficiency.

Manage vendor relationships including but not limited to reviewing specifications, bids, requests for proposals, and contracts for all activities related to the JCN fiber network facilities.

Coordinate meetings as needed and provide meeting minutes.

Must be available to work outside of normal business hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

Performs related work as required.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Computer Science, or a related field and

Three(3) to five(5) years of experience with fiber optic network architecture or advanced network engineering and architecture and design or

An equivalent combination of education and/or experience

Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse populationRequired Licenses or Certifications

National Crime Information Center (NCIC) within six months of hire

ITIL Certifications within 1 year of hireDesired Qualifications

Network-related certification (CCNP, ACSP, ACMP)

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement

The City of Cedar Rapids is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All job applicants will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability and genetic information (including family medical history).

Applicants with Disabilities

We respect and value people with disabilities and are committed to providing a workplace culture of disability inclusion. People with disabilities are supported during the hiring process and are encouraged to apply for employment with the City of Cedar Rapids. In support of the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations will be provided to those in need of assistance with the application and interview process. To request an accommodation, contact the City's Human Resources department by phone at or by email at .