Network Specialist - OSP Construction

TDS•Green Bay, WI

1d•Remote

About The Position

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 supervise engineering and/or construction consultants, and works 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, while ensuring construction complies with current 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 construction projects, monitors costs and progress to keep work on schedule and within budget, and works with governmental agencies to protect the OSP network from proposed road improvements. The role may negotiate with municipalities and utility companies regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and complete networks. It can be performed remotely in any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates, with preference potentially given to candidates within 45 minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hiring level may be Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction, depending on the candidate’s skills and qualifications. The position coordinates OSP projects and/or consultants, provides technical support for special requests such as major road moves and potential on-net builds, and collaborates with Finance and Legal on facility accounting and asset transfers. It audits projects, reviews field reports and contractor invoices, manages construction quality and documentation, and ensures compliance with company standards, applicable codes, and Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines. It also conducts project meetings as needed and verifies that rights-of-way, easements, permits, designs, and required project documentation are in place.

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 (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.
Ability to work independently and self-direct work.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency in a digital work environment and 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 the telecommunications industry and its principles.

Nice To Haves

Fiber optic implementation experience.
ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.
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 on accounting for facilities placed and with Legal to manage risk in 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 support 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 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 required rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained, and verify designs for appropriate cable sizing and facility routing.
Verify that project documentation, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOPs, and closeout documentation, is complete.
Work with governmental agencies to protect the OSP network from proposed road improvements.
Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies, as needed, regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and complete networks.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
401(k) plan
Education assistance
Paid time off, including vacation and 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