Job Description:

Network Specialist I - OSP Engineering & Construction

Job Locations

US-WA-Spokane

Overview

The Network Specialist I - OSP Engineering & Construction is expected to assist in the creation and interpretation of OSP Design maps using GIS based mapping software. You will have to understand, interpret and track progress for numerous projects concurrently in the given market area.  You will continually monitor design costs, process change orders and monitor job progress to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. 

You will have responsibility to lead small group cross functional meetings and drive strategic growth in specific brownfield markets across the given market area. You may be required to interact with contractors to monitor OSP activities in the field, safe work practices and have QC functions to approve OSP placements as ‘FINAL/AS-Built’.

The individual filling this position is responsible for continually working with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from being jeopardized by permitting requirements or proposed road improvements. You may be required to negotiate with municipalities, 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 will work closely with our sales organization as well as Field Services. It will also have an emphasis on ROW, Easement and Pole Attachments(Make Ready Processes) and will interact with members of Net Ops Compliance as well as working with communities on their permit ordinances.

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/or states. 
• Provide technical and strategic input in evaluating high level network design


• Provide technical support for special request projects such as, major road moves or potential on-net builds. He/she 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 projects.


• 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(OSP/Transport Planners)and HLDROM’s.


• Partner with Regional OSP Engineering (OSPE) members on engineering of network builds within GIS.


• Assist in training OSPE members on the use, functions and tools with in GIS


• Review data for impacts to builds (eg: Roadmoves)


• Create processes and tools for mobile use of GIS for data collection and consumption.


• Provide technical and strategic leadership in evaluating current GIS products being offered on the market and provides recommendations for upgrades and changes in methods of practice for TDS. Includes application upgrades and data sources

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Associate Degree (or higher) -OR- 2+ years' professional work experience


• 3+ years' experience in Voice/Data/Video networking


• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and insurance

Other Qualifications

• GIS experience, Engineering within GIS program a plus(AGOL)


• ESRI ArcGIS experience


• Spatial analysis experience


• Joint Attachment Process/Power CO Make Ready Process experience a plus


• GPON/PON engineering experience


• Brownfield fiber overbuild a plus


• Service Implementation experience a plus


• Experience in Telephony or related fields


• Excellent leadership, customer relations and communications skills across teams a plus


• Thorough Understanding of Telecommunications industry and principals.


• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.


• Excellent written and oral communications skills


• PC database, spreadsheet and word processing skills are critical


• 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

At TDS, we embrace Equal Employment Opportunity by valuing our differences and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by law. To learn about our diversity & inclusion philosophy and culture, click here!