A pin retainer for a fiber optic connector includes a ferrule having a front face defining a hole for receiving a guide pin. The pin retainer permits the guide pin to be inserted in the field following assembly of the connector and polishing the front face of the ferrule. The pin retainer includes a frame and at least one retaining tab for engaging the guide pin when the guide pin is inserted into the hole from the front face. The frame may have an open side for permitting the pin retainer to be fabricated using a highly efficient wire EDM process. The pin retainer provides a pin retention force of at least about 8 lbs and may include a plurality of retaining tabs for engaging the guide pin in more than one location. The ferrule may be provided with an external feature to position the pin retainer on the ferrule.