[Hiring] Network Specialist I - OSP Construction @TDS

Role Description

In the Network Specialist I - OSP Construction role, you are responsible for coordinating, planning, and supervising outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states. You will be expected to work closely with representatives from Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure that the needs of the company are being met.

• Responsible for the implementation of fiber and HFC networks while conforming to existing TDS outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards.
• Stay current with NESC codes and ensure compliance at all times.
• Oversee numerous construction projects, possibly located in multiple locations and states.
• Monitor costs and job progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Work with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from proposed road improvements.
• Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies for the purchase, lease, and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

This position has the ability to work remotely, but the ideal candidate will reside in or be within a reasonable commuting distance of Wausau, WI.

This position can be hired at a Network Specialist I - OSP Construction or Network Specialist II - OSP Construction level depending on the skills and qualifications of the candidate.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate OSP projects and/or supervise consultants responsible for coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations.
• Provide technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or potential on-net builds.
• Work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and interact with the legal department to mitigate risk in asset transfers.
• Assist in the engineering phase of projects, including creating labor, material, and overhead project cost estimates.
• Conduct audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and compliance with standards.
• Review all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy.
• Manage construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean-up resolution, and project documentation.
• Ensure compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and other departments.
• Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
• Verify that proper right-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained.
• Ensure all documentation required to complete projects successfully is complete.

Qualifications

• Associate degree (or higher) –OR- 2+ years professional work experience.
• 3+ years experience in Voice, Data, or Video networking.
• 3+ years’ experience in OSP Construction and/or Engineering (fiber or copper or coax) -OR-related Utility/Municipal Construction and/or Engineering - OR - Construction Project Management, Utility Installation Technician, General Trades experience.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance.

Other Qualifications

• Experience with underground, aerial and/or new plant construction preferred.
• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
• Self-directed and ability to work independently.
• ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, Spatial analysis or other GIS experience.
• Proficient working in a digital environment.
• Understanding of Telecommunications industry and principles.
• 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 in a cooperative and courteous manner with diverse work groups.
• Understanding of Fiber to The Home (FTTH) design and construction techniques.
• Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability (for associates working 30 or more hours per week)
• TDS Service Discounts (for associates working 30 or more hours per week)
• Education Assistance (for associates working 30 or more hours per week)
• Paid Volunteer Time (for associates working 30 or more hours per week)