Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Engineering

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting-edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

 

This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the states in which TDS Telecom operates. However, being located within the state of Montana is a plus, but not required.

 

The Network Specialist I - OSP Engineering is expected to assist in the creation of OSP Design maps using GIS. You will have to understand numerous projects, possibly located in multiple locations and states. You will continually monitor design costs and monitor job progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

 

The individual filling this position is responsible for continually working with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from being jeopardized by permitting requirements or proposed road improvements. You may be required to negotiate with municipalities, other utility companies from a network and a legal perspective for the purchase, lease and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber and/or complete networks.

 

You are expected to work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, and consultants for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure that the needs of the company are being met. You will be responsible for the design of fiber networks while conforming to existing TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards established for the Telecom Network Services.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the design of OSP projects and/or supervision of consultants who are responsible for coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states. 
• Provide technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or potential on-net builds. You must work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and interact with the legal department to ensure that the company is not at risk in any asset transfers. If needed, assist in the engineering phase of the projects. This involves creating labor, material, and overheads project cost estimates.
• Provide audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency. The audits will ensure compliance with National Electrical Code standards and current TDS OSP standards.
• Review all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy. Manage projects by reviewing quality of work, clean up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation and continual review of project progress.
• Verify that all documentation required to complete projects successfully, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOP's, and close out documentation is complete.
• Create and perform analysis on network designs for the OSP teams utilizing GIS tools and extensions. Provide the data back for the OSP teams to use in strategic decisions, AD's, and HLDROM's.
• Partner with Regional OSPE members on the use, functions, and tools within GIS.
• Review data for impacts to builds (e.g.: road moves).
• Create processes and tools for mobile use of GIS for data collection and consumption.
• Provide technical leadership in evaluating current GIS products being offered on the market and provides recommendations for upgrades and changes in methods of practices for TDS. Includes application upgrades and data sources.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree (or higher) -OR- 2+ years professional work experience.
• 3+ years’ experience in Voice, Data or Video networking.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and insurance.

Other Qualifications

• GIS, ESRI, ArcGIS and/or spatial analysis experience
• Experience in Telephony or related fields
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills
• Thorough understanding of Telecommunications industry and principles
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• PC database, spreadsheet, and word processing skills
• Advanced working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards
• Ability to work in a cooperative and courteous manner with diverse work groups
• Ability to read and assess fiber and/or HFC designs and prints

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? W