Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS•Beaver Dam, WI

1d•Remote

About The Position

The Network Specialist I - OSP Construction coordinates, plans, and supervises outside plant (OSP) field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states. The role works with Network Operations representatives, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, construction contractors, and other TDS Telecom teams to implement fiber and HFC networks in accordance with TDS OSP guidelines and standards and applicable NESC requirements. Depending on workload and location, the specialist may supervise consultants or assist with project engineering, including preparing labor, material, and overhead estimates. The position oversees multiple construction projects, monitors costs and progress to support on-time, on-budget completion, and coordinates with governmental agencies, municipalities, and other utility companies on network protection and network asset transactions. It may be performed remotely in any of the more than 40 states where TDS Telecom operates; preference may be given to applicants within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin. The posting states that candidates may be hired at either the Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction level, depending on skills and qualifications, and that separate postings specify the minimum requirements for each level.

Requirements

Associate degree or higher, or at least 2 years of professional work experience.
At least 3 years of experience in OSP construction and/or engineering involving fiber, copper, or coax; related utility or municipal construction and/or engineering; construction project management; utility installation technician work; or general trades experience.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance, which must be maintained.
Fiber optic implementation experience.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
Proficiency in a digital work environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Project management experience.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
PC database, spreadsheet, and word-processing skills.
Working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards.
Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with diverse work groups.
Understanding of Fiber to The Home (FTTH) design and construction techniques.
Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

Nice To Haves

ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.

Responsibilities

Coordinate OSP projects and/or supervise consultants coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states.
Provide technical support for special-request projects, such as major road moves or potential on-net builds.
Work with Finance to ensure facilities placed are accounted for properly and coordinate with Legal to manage risks associated with asset transfers.
Assist with project engineering when needed, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
Audit OSP projects and coach consultants and contractors to promote accuracy, consistency, and compliance with National Electrical Code standards and current TDS OSP standards.
Review field personnel reports and contractor invoices for accuracy.
Manage construction projects by reviewing work quality, resolving cleanup issues, maintaining project documentation, and monitoring project progress.
Ensure compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and coordinate with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
Verify that rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained, and review designs for appropriate cable sizing and facility routing.
Verify completion of project documentation, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOPs, and closeout documentation.
Work with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements.
Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
401(k) plan
Education assistance
Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave
Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday
Paid parental leave
Short-term disability coverage for associates scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week
Long-term disability coverage for associates scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week
Comprehensive well-being program