Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS Telecom•Oshkosh, WI

2d•$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 consulting resources during engineering or construction and works with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and 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 current NESC codes. Depending on the area, the position may assist with OSP engineering, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The position oversees multiple construction projects and monitors costs and progress to help ensure completion on time and within budget. It works with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements and may negotiate with municipalities and other utilities regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks. The role may 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 level depends on the candidate’s skills and qualifications, and separate postings describe 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.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and insurance, which must be maintained.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
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.

Nice To Haves

Fiber optic implementation experience.
ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.
Proficiency working in a digital environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Project management experience.
Understanding of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) design and construction techniques.
Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

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 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 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 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 right-of-way, easements, permits, cable sizing, and facility routing designs are appropriate.
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 regarding purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
401(k) plan
Education assistance
Paid vacation time
Paid 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