Network Specialist I - OSP Construction

TDS•Green Bay, WI

17h•Remote

About The Position

At TDS Telecom, the Network Specialist I 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 and construction. It works closely with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet the needs of TDS Telecom Network Services. The position implements 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 specialist may assist with OSP engineering, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The role oversees multiple projects, monitors costs and progress, and works to ensure completion on time and within budget. It also coordinates with government agencies to protect the OSP network from proposed road improvements and may negotiate with municipalities and other 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. Applicants located within 45 minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin, may be preferred to support in-market needs. The position 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 (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.
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 at risk in asset transfers.
Assist with project engineering as needed, including creating 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 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 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 required 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 close-out documentation.
Monitor project costs and progress to help ensure construction projects are completed on time and within budget.
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, and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance for associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Dental insurance for associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Vision insurance for associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
Life insurance for associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
401(k) plan.
Education assistance.
Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, with full-time accrual rates stated in the posting.
Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday.
Paid parental leave of six weeks after 12 months of employment.
Short-term and long-term disability coverage for associates scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week.
Comprehensive well-being program.