Telecommunications Engineer/Specialist

NiSource • Merrillville, IN

11h

About The Position

The Communications Engineer/Specialist serves as the communications designer for new microwave, wireless systems, fiber optics, and infrastructure. Responsibilities include designing high- and low-density point-to-point microwave links, multiplex systems, wireless systems, multiple-address communication systems, and spread-spectrum systems. Acts as a technical liaison with other utilities for design and system coordination. Serves as a liaison to communication equipment manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, and contractors. Performs work in industrial environments, including: Electric substations, Generating stations, Gas facilities, compressor stations, and storage stations. May require work on elevated structures (e.g., communication towers). Conducts: Field surveys for new communication systems, Performance engineering calculations, Bid specification development, Standards development, FCC and FAA application support, RF safety compliance, Electric and gas safety compliance. Maintains working knowledge of structural standards. Note: This position may be filled as an Engineer or Specialist based on education and experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Engineering Technology (ABET preferred) or Master’s in Electrical Engineering
• Related degrees (Science, Math, IT) considered with relevant experience
• 2–4 years of electric utility/telecom experience in communications design (Level II)
• Understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving
• Knowledge of communication system configuration
• Ability to perform project estimates
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD
• Experience with tools such as PathLoss, MATLAB, RadioSoft
• Knowledge of TIA-222 tower standards
• Understanding of NESC codes
• Familiarity with field survey instruments
• Ability to manage multiple projects
• Knowledge of tower loading and structural behavior
• Knowledge of microwave propagation and link budgets
• Knowledge of fiber optics and margin calculations
• 4–9 years of relevant experience (Level III)
• Proficiency in engineering principles and design practices
• Ability to manage and complete complex projects
• Advanced schematic interpretation skills
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Demonstrated project leadership experience
• 7–12 years of relevant experience (including demonstrated advanced responsibility) (Senior)
• Advanced engineering expertise
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities
• High-level analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Project management knowledge or certification (PMP/CAPM)
• EIT or PE certification
• Utility industry experience
• Project management certification
• Utility experience
• Project management certification (PMP/CAPM)
• EIT or PE certification
• Utility industry experience
• Project management certification (PMP/CAPM)
• EIT or PE certification

Responsibilities

• Design wireless, fiber optic, and serial communication systems, including SCADA and high-speed relaying
• Conduct wireless path surveys for microwave design
• Calculate microwave path performance, propagation, and reliability
• Evaluate path designs for space diversity and passive reflector applications
• Conduct communication traffic studies
• Design fiber optic links, including performance calculations
• Design MAS communication systems and estimate RF propagation performance
• Conduct RF safety site surveys and compile documentation for NIPSCO sites
• Design multiplex systems
• Design point-to-point wireless systems
• Design antenna mounts (including stress analysis and fabrication drawings)
• Design antenna systems for microwave and wireless links
• Design microwave site layouts
• Conduct FAA studies and tower installation evaluations
• Develop detailed material lists and system specifications for bidding
• Develop standards, procedures, and policies
• Evaluate FCC tower registration requirements
• Provide technical expertise to identify, analyze, and resolve issues
• Support business objectives through planning, organizing, and scheduling
• Prepare accurate technical reports and maintain documentation
• Build strong working relationships and communicate effectively
• Ensure compliance with company standards, codes, and regulations
• Apply safety practices and standard operating procedures
• Develop estimates and order materials via MAPPS/Ariba
• Apply ASR/FAA obstruction standards
• Interpret schematics and wiring diagrams
• Apply substation and communications engineering principles
• Obtain and maintain RF safety certification
• Lead and complete complex communication design projects
• Apply NESC codes and FAA/ASR standards to projects
• Interpret and correct complex schematics and diagrams
• Improve and apply engineering standards
• Lead technical meetings and field activities
• Provide advanced engineering solutions across projects
• Maintain RF safety certification
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of microwave propagation and calculations
• Lead technical strategy and execution for complex projects
• Mentor and coach team members
• Ensure achievement of business objectives
• Manage and maintain company standards, codes, and policies
• Lead stakeholder coordination and decision-making
• Apply advanced engineering calculations and system design
• Improve communication engineering standards
• Develop large-scale project estimates and material planning
• Recommend system redesigns for safety, compliance, and efficiency
• Demonstrate mastery of communication networks and infrastructure

Benefits

• Continuous service to customers at all times
• May be required to work outside of normal work hours and perform tasks outside of normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations
• Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners
• Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds
• Treat others with respect and consideration
• Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment
• Equal employment opportunities
• Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program
• Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries
• Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers
• Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits
• Part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic
• Named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers
• Inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level