Network Specialist - OSP Construction

TDS Telecom•Oshkosh, WI

2d•$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, and works with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet company needs. The specialist implements fiber and HFC networks in accordance with TDS OSP guidelines and standards, stays current with NESC codes, and ensures construction complies with them. Depending on the area, the position may assist with OSP project engineering, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The position oversees multiple construction projects and monitors costs and progress to help ensure projects finish on time and within budget. It works with governmental agencies to protect TDS's 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 role may be performed remotely in any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates. Applicants within 45 minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin, may be preferred to support in-market needs. 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.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance; these must be maintained.
Fiber optic implementation experience.
Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
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 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.
Proficiency working in a digital environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.

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 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 ensure 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 project progress.
Ensure the TDS OSP group complies with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and coordinate with departments including Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
Verify that 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.
Work with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements.
Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies concerning the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/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 for eligible associates.
Education assistance.
Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, subject to eligibility and work schedule.
Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday.
Paid parental leave of 6 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.