Network Specialist - OSP Construction

TDS•Green Bay, WI

1d•Remote

About The Position

At TDS Telecom, the Network Specialist - 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 phases and work closely with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet company needs. The position supports 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 role may assist with OSP project engineering, including estimates for labor, materials, and overhead. The specialist oversees multiple construction projects, monitors costs and progress, and works to keep projects on time and within budget. The position also works with governmental agencies to protect the TDS 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. It may be performed remotely in any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates, with preference potentially given to applicants within 45 minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hiring may be at 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 2 years of experience in OSP construction and/or engineering involving fiber, copper, or coax; related utility/municipal construction 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.
Leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
Proficiency in a digital work environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Project management experience.
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 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 on 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 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 monitoring 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 proper rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained, and that designs provide proper 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, as needed, regarding purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, 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.
Education assistance.
Paid 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.