Telecommunications Technician (Assistant, Level I or Level II (La Crosse, WI)

Dairyland Power Cooperative • La Crosse, WI

13d • $32 - $56 • Onsite

About The Position

Dairyland Power Cooperative is seeking qualified candidates for a Telecommunications Technician position, with opportunities to join at the Assistant, Level I, or Level II depending on experience and qualifications. This role supports the operation, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Dairyland’s complex telecommunications infrastructure across a 45,000+ square mile service area. Telecommunications systems include fiber optics, microwave radio, SCADA, voice and data systems, and utility automation systems, ensuring reliable and efficient communication services.

Requirements

• Assistant Level: Associate degree or Vo-Tech diploma in electronics/communications-related field OR equivalent education/experience.
• Basic electronics principles and computer skills.
• Understanding of TCP/IP networking systems and protocols encouraged.
• Level I: Associate degree in communications-related field and 1–3 years of experience OR technical diploma and 4 years of related experience.
• Military or other communications experience may substitute for education.
• Proficiency in reading circuit diagrams, using electronic test equipment, and understanding telecommunications systems.
• Level II: Associate degree in communications-related field and at least 3 years of experience OR technical diploma and 4 years of related experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Advanced understanding of telecommunications systems, equipment, and protocols.
• Demonstrated ability to perform all foundational tasks from Level I.
• Valid driver’s license required for all levels.
• Lift and carry equipment and tools (up to 75 lbs).
• Perform physical activities such as climbing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, crawling, and bending.
• Access remote areas or uneven terrain while carrying test equipment.
• Work indoors and outdoors, including nighttime and extreme temperatures or hazardous conditions (noise, fumes, dust, chemicals, etc.).
• Work in electrical substations and generation plant facilities.
• Ability to differentiate colors.
• Ability to respond to primary work location within ~30 minutes.
• Available for 24-hour on-call shifts and overtime as needed.
• Travel throughout Dairyland’s service area, including occasional overnight stays.

Nice To Haves

• FCC license preferred (encouraged for Assistant, preferred for Levels I and II).

Responsibilities

• Assist with or independently perform the installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of telecommunications equipment such as: Fiber optics, network routers, switches, modems, and cabling Wireless access points, point-to-point radio, digital microwave systems Voice and data systems, SCADA, mobile radio systems, phone systems, generators, battery systems, chargers UHF/VHF transmitter/receiver systems, antennas, duplexers/combiners, mobile/base stations, portable radios, operator consoles Telephony systems (PABX, VoIP), cabling, termination, and testing Utility automation systems (SCADA, substation processors, RTUs, PLCs, Tele-Protection, DNP/Modbus protocols) Miscellaneous equipment (PA systems, video security systems).
• Operate and maintain IP networks, AC/DC circuits, and other systems to ensure reliability.
• Follow testing procedures, document results, and proactively address technical issues.
• Conduct preventative maintenance, building inspections, and equipment checks for tower lighting, standby generators, battery plants, and UPS systems.
• Maintain site logs and documentation in compliance with FCC and FAA regulations.
• Follow and enforce Dairyland Power safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
• Collaborate with telecommunications staff, employees, member cooperative personnel, vendors, and technical support teams.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Report equipment inventory and status.
• Provide technical guidance and recommendations for process improvements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• At Dairyland, we know that happy employees are the backbone of any good organization. By offering an excellent compensation and benefits package, opportunities for career growth and a supportive environment, Dairyland helps ensure a quality business and premier workplace.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees