Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS•Beaver Dam, WI

2d•Remote

About The Position

At TDS Telecom, 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 consulting resources during engineering or construction and works closely with Network Operations representatives, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet company needs. The specialist 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, including labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The specialist oversees multiple projects, monitors costs and progress, and works to ensure completion on time and within budget. The role also works with government agencies to protect TDS OSP assets during proposed road improvements and may negotiate with municipalities and utility companies regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks. The position may be performed remotely in any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates. Preference may be given to applicants within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin. Depending on a candidate’s skills and qualifications, the position may be filled at the Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction level; separate postings describe 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 (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 maintain these.
Fiber-optic implementation experience.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Self-directed, with the ability to work independently.
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 proper accounting of facilities placed and with Legal to ensure the company is not exposed to 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 ensure 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 continually reviewing project progress.
Ensure the TDS OSP group complies with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and coordinates with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
Verify that appropriate rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained and that designs provide proper 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 needed with municipalities and utility companies regarding purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance for eligible associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Dental insurance for eligible associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Vision insurance for eligible associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Life insurance for eligible associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
401(k) plan.
Education assistance.
Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, with accrual prorated for associates working 20–39 hours per week and for other eligible associates as described.
Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday.
Paid parental leave of 6 weeks after 12 months of employment.
Short-term and long-term disability coverage for associates scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week.
Medical coverage and sick leave for associates scheduled to work under 20 hours per week or for a limited term, such as interns.