Telecom Systems Engineer

VELCO•Rutland, VT

About The Position

VELCO is seeking a Telecom Systems Engineer to plan, design, implement, maintain, and continuously improve telecommunications and network infrastructure supporting its electric transmission, distribution, and substation systems. The role ensures reliable, secure, and highly available communications for critical utility operations, including SCADA, protective relaying, voice communications, video systems, and operational technology networks. The engineer works closely with IT, Operations, System Protection, Engineering, and field personnel to meet utility reliability, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements. The position calls for strong documentation and change-management practices, analytical and troubleshooting abilities, risk evaluation and mitigation, and effective management of multiple projects and priorities. A thorough understanding of utility grounding, bonding, power systems, and applicable industry standards is required. The position includes rotating on-call coverage, possible work outside normal business hours, and periodic travel with overnight stays for industry workshops or training. The listed compensation range is $90,916.80 to $127,283.52 annually, with a midpoint of $109,100.16. Individual offers depend on factors including qualifications, education, skills, competencies, and experience. The compensation package may also include benefits, paid time off, and incentive compensation. Employment offers are contingent on successful reference and background checks, a physical examination, and drug screening. Eligible applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience designing and supporting enterprise telecommunications and network infrastructure.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills, including the ability to evaluate risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
Ability to balance multiple projects and priorities and meet deadlines through effective time management.
Thorough understanding of utility grounding, bonding, power systems, and applicable industry standards.
Knowledge of SCADA, DNP3, IEC 61850, Modbus, ICCP, and utility communication protocols.
Ability to maintain performance in a fast-paced environment while completing complex analytical work under tight timelines and frequent interruptions.
Participation in rotating on-call coverage and work outside normal business hours may be required.
Periodic travel and overnight stays for industry workshops, training, and similar activities are required.
Eligible applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is preferred; an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant experience may be considered.
Experience with utility communications systems, industrial networking, or critical infrastructure environments is preferred.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot utility telecommunications infrastructure.
Support SONET, DWDM, OTN, MPLS, and G.8032/Carrier Ethernet.
Configure and maintain routers, switches, and telecommunications equipment.
Monitor network performance, capacity, availability, and reliability.
Develop and maintain network architecture diagrams and telecommunications documentation.
Provide communications support for SCADA, EMS, DMS, OMS, AMI, DER, and other utility operational systems.
Support communications requirements for transmission and distribution substations.
Design and implement network infrastructure upgrades and expansions.
Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend improvements to enhance reliability and performance.
Lead telecommunications and networking projects from planning through implementation.
Participate directly in vulnerability assessments, security audits, and remediation efforts.
Provide Tier 2 and Tier 3 technical support for network and telecommunications systems.
Participate in after-hours on-call support, emergency restoration activities, and the engineering on-call rotation.
Work with telecom vendors, service providers, consultants, and contractors.
Maintain hardware and fiber circuit inventory records and lifecycle management plans for telecommunications assets.
Assist with Outside Plant activities as needed.