Network Specialist - OSP Construction

TDS Telecom•Beaver Dam, WI

3d•$61,300 - $99,600•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 works closely with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet the needs of TDS Telecom Network Services. The position 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 role may assist with OSP project engineering, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. It oversees multiple construction projects, monitors costs and progress to ensure timely, on-budget completion, and works with government agencies to protect TDS infrastructure from proposed road improvements. The role 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. Applicants located within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin, may receive preference. The role 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 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 experience.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance; must maintain these.

Nice To Haves

Fiber optic implementation experience.
Leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and with self-direction.
ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.
Proficiency working in a digital environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Project management experience.
Strong 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.

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 proper accounting of facilities placed and with Legal to reduce 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/or contractors to promote 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 right-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained and that designs provide 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 TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements.
Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies regarding the 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
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