Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS•Green Bay, 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 may include supervising engineering and construction consultants and working closely with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet TDS Telecom Network Services requirements. It oversees implementation of fiber and HFC networks in accordance with TDS OSP guidelines and standards, and ensures construction complies with NESC codes. Depending on the area, the position may assist with OSP project engineering and prepare labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The role oversees multiple construction projects, monitors costs and progress to keep work on schedule and within budget, and works with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements. It may also involve negotiating with municipalities and other utility companies regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks. The position can be performed remotely in any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates; preference may be given to applicants within 45 minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin, to support in-market needs. Hiring may be at the Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction level depending on the candidate’s skills and qualifications; separate postings describe each level’s minimum requirements.

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 (fiber, copper, or coax), related utility/municipal construction and/or engineering, construction project management, utility installation technician work, or general trades.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance; must maintain these.
Fiber optic implementation experience.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Self-directed and able to work independently.
Proficient 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

Experience with ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS.

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, including major road moves and potential on-net builds.
Work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and with Legal to reduce risk in asset transfers.
Assist with project engineering as needed, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
Audit OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to promote accuracy and consistency and ensure 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 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 required rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained, and that designs provide 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, as required, with municipalities and other utility companies regarding purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks.
Monitor costs and job progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.