Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS Telecom•Beaver Dam, WI

3d•$70,500 - $114,500•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 may also supervise engineering or construction consultants and, depending on the area, assist with OSP project engineering and prepare labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The position oversees implementation of fiber and HFC networks in accordance with TDS OSP guidelines and standards, and ensures construction complies with NESC requirements. It manages project costs, progress, quality, documentation, and completion within schedule and budget. The role works with Network Operations, Finance, Legal, engineering and construction consultants, contractors, governmental agencies, municipalities, and other utilities on construction needs, network protection, and asset transactions. The position may be performed remotely from any of the more than 40 states where TDS Telecom operates. Preference may be given to applicants located within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin. The role may be hired at either the Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction level, depending on the candidate’s skills and qualifications.

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/municipal construction and/or engineering; construction project management; utility installation technician work; or general trades experience.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance; must be maintained.
Fiber optic implementation experience.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
Proficient in a digital work environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
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.
Project management 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 on proper accounting for facilities placed and with Legal on asset transfers to ensure the company is not exposed to risk.
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 reports and contractor invoices for accuracy.
Manage construction projects by reviewing work quality, resolving cleanup issues, maintaining project documentation, and monitoring progress.
Ensure compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and coordination 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 that designs provide appropriate cable sizing and facility routing.
Verify completion of required 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, from network and legal perspectives, regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance for eligible associates.
Dental insurance for eligible associates.
Vision insurance for eligible associates.
Life insurance for eligible associates.
401(k) plan for eligible associates.
Education assistance.
Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave.
Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday.
Paid parental leave of six weeks after 12 months of employment.
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.