[Hiring] Network Specialist - OSP Construction @TDS Telecom

Role Description

In the Network Specialist - OSP Construction role, you are responsible for coordinating, planning, and supervising outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states. Depending upon workload, you may be required to supervise consulting resources in the engineering and/or construction phase of the projects. 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.

You will be responsible for the implementation of fiber and HFC networks while conforming to existing TDS outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards established for the Telecom Network Services. You are expected to stay current with NESC codes and ensure our construction at all times is in NESC compliance. Depending on the area, you may be required to assist in the engineering of the OSP project, which involves creating labor, material, and overhead project estimates.

You are expected to oversee numerous construction projects, possibly located in multiple locations and states. You will also continually monitor costs and job progress to ensure that construction projects are completed on time and within budget. You will be responsible for continually working with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from being jeopardized by proposed road improvements. You may be required to negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies from a network and a legal perspective for the purchase, lease, and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete networks.

This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the 40+ States in which TDS Telecom operates; however, preference may be given to applicants located within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin.

This position can be hired at a Network Specialist-OSP Construction (2026-29984) or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction (2026-29985) level depending on the skills and qualifications of the candidate. Separate job postings outline the minimum requirements for each role. Please review both postings and apply to any level for which you are qualified and interested.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the coordination of OSP projects and/or supervision of consultants who are responsible for coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states.
• 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 ensure that the company is not at risk in any asset transfers.
• Assist in the engineering phase of projects, including creating labor, material, and overhead project cost estimates.
• Provide audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Ensure compliance with National Electrical Code standards and current TDS OSP standards.
• Review all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy.
• Manage construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation, and continual review of project progress.
• Ensure that the TDS OSP group complies with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and other departments such as Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
• Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
• Verify that proper right-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained and designs for proper cable sizing and facility routing.
• Verify that all documentation required to complete projects successfully, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOP’s, and close out documentation is complete.

Qualifications

• Associate degree (or higher) –OR- 2+ years professional work experience.
• 2+ 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.

Requirements

• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communications 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 communications 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

• Access to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan for associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
• Education assistance and paid time off benefits such as vacation (15 days accrued per year for full-time; pro-rated for associates working between 20-39 hours).
• Sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates).
• Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday.
• Paid parental leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment).
• Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability coverage available for associates working 30 or more hours per week.
• Medical coverage, 401(k) plan (if 18 or older), and sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates) for associates scheduled to work under twenty hours per week or for a limited term (i.e. interns).