Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Engineering

TDS Telecom is a provider of high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services across the U.S. They are seeking a Network Specialist I to assist in the creation of Outside Plant Design maps using GIS, while monitoring design costs and project progress to ensure timely completion. The role involves working with various governmental agencies and managing the design of fiber networks according to TDS OSP guidelines.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the design 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. You must 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. If needed, assist in the engineering phase of the projects. This involves creating labor, material, and overheads project cost estimates
• Provide audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency. The audits will 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 projects by reviewing quality of work, clean up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation and continual review of project progress
• 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
• Create and perform analysis on network designs for the OSP teams utilizing GIS tools and extensions. Provide the data back for the OSP teams to use in strategic decisions, AD's, and HLDROM's
• Partner with Regional OSPE members on the use, functions, and tools within GIS
• Review data for impacts to builds (e.g.: road moves)
• Create processes and tools for mobile use of GIS for data collection and consumption
• Provide technical leadership in evaluating current GIS products being offered on the market and provides recommendations for upgrades and changes in methods of practices for TDS. Includes application upgrades and data sources

Requirements:

• Associate degree (or higher) -OR- 2+ years professional work experience
• 3+ years' experience in Voice, Data or Video networking
• GIS, ESRI, ArcGIS and/or spatial analysis experience
• Experience in Telephony or related fields
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills
• Thorough understanding of Telecommunications industry and principles
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• PC database, spreadsheet, and word processing skills
• Advanced working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards
• Ability to work in a cooperative and courteous manner with diverse work groups
• Ability to read and assess fiber and/or HFC designs and prints