Wireless Communications Systems Designer (Radio & Microwave Systems)

State of Washington•Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a Wireless Communications Systems Designer (Radio & Microwave Systems) to support the statewide wireless communications infrastructure. This position, based in Tumwater, provides technical expertise in the research, design, installation, testing, and commissioning of Internet Protocol (IP)-based wireless communications and support systems for the department’s Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Land Mobile Radio (LMR), and Microwave networks. The role involves designing and maintaining sophisticated wireless systems that support critical transportation operations statewide, applying advanced technical knowledge to develop reliable communications solutions, support regional staff and partners, and contribute to the advancement of WSDOT’s wireless technology program. This role combines office-based technical design with hands-on fieldwork supporting statewide wireless communication systems, which may include operating in remote environments, supporting tower and radio site infrastructure, and working with specialized communications equipment and technology.

Requirements

Demonstrated advanced technical proficiency designing, configuring, staging, testing, and commissioning wireless communication systems, including VHF, UHF, 700/800 MHz, P25, IP microwave, MPLS, and IP networking systems to support reliable and compliant operations.
Ability to apply engineering principles to develop, integrate, troubleshoot, and optimize complex wireless and networked communication systems.
Skill in interpreting and applying technical documents, engineering drawings, schematics, manuals, and specifications to support system design, installation, and maintenance activities.
Ability to analyze system performance data, diagnose technical issues, implement solutions, and improve communication system reliability and efficiency.
Knowledge of electrical and wireless engineering principles and ability to consistently apply applicable state and federal regulations, codes, standards, and safety practices.
Ability to assess hazards and safely perform work in remote, high-risk environments, including work at heights, severe weather, and challenging terrain.
Ability to safely operate tools, specialized equipment, and state vehicles, while performing physically demanding work and safely moving materials and equipment.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Takes action to meet the needs of others.
A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles, including 4WD vehicles, to access remote equipment sites.
Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to pass and maintain a Washington State Patrol Criminal Justice background check.
Ability to pass and maintain a current General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) issued by the FCC.
Ability to obtain and maintain a tower climbing safety and rescue certificate.
Ability to work at heights up to 300 feet on antenna support structures and remote radio facilities.

Nice To Haves

Advanced knowledge of Ethernet, IP networking, radio propagation, and microwave system design to support scalable and reliable communications systems.
Proficiency in the operation, configuration, and maintenance of L3Harris VIDA communication systems supporting integrated public safety networks.
Proficiency configuring, operating, and troubleshooting Nokia Microwave Systems supporting high-capacity wireless backhaul communications.

Responsibilities

Lead research, feasibility studies, and technical design for sophisticated IP-based wireless communication systems supporting statewide transportation operations.
Develop project scopes, cost estimates, engineering specifications, and design plans for wireless microwave, LMR, antenna, DC power, battery, and uninterrupted power systems.
Provide subject matter expertise and technical support to regional staff and partners on wireless system design, upgrades, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Test, evaluate, install, commission, and oversee wireless communication systems and supporting infrastructure to ensure reliable performance and compliance with agency and industry standards.
Support the construction and maintenance of radio towers, antenna systems, shelters, grounding systems, and related infrastructure in coordination with contractors, engineers, and agency staff.
Apply state, federal, environmental, and industry requirements by coordinating permitting, environmental documentation, and engineering compliance activities.
Assist with the development of technical specifications, scopes of work, procurement documents, training, and asset management activities supporting statewide wireless systems.