Job Title: DAS Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator Department: WTS Reports To: Division Manager Location: National So Job Type: Full-Time
Position Overview:
The DAS Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator is responsible for designing and estimating Distributed Antenna System (DAS) solutions for clients across various industries. This role combines technical expertise with creativity to design effective, scalable, and cost-efficient DAS solutions that meet client requirements. The ideal candidate will have experience with RF design, DAS system architecture, and estimating costs associated with system implementation. The Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator will also collaborate with project managers, engineers, and vendors to ensure smooth project execution.
Key Responsibilities:
1. DAS System Design and Architecture:
o Lead the design and development of DAS solutions, ensuring they meet client needs and industry standards.
o Create comprehensive DAS designs, including RF designs, system layout, coverage plans, and component specifications.
o Design DAS systems that optimize coverage, capacity, and performance based on the site environment and client requirements.
o Review customer requirements and site conditions to determine appropriate DAS configuration (e.g., passive/active, fiber or coax, etc.).
o Use design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD, or similar) to produce system layout drawings, schematics, and as-built documentation.
2. Estimation and Costing:
o Prepare accurate estimates for DAS projects, including equipment, labor, materials, and installation costs.
o Analyze client requirements and provide estimates based on the system design and implementation complexities.
o Develop detailed and competitive proposals for DAS solutions, ensuring that costs are aligned with client budgets while maintaining system performance.
o Work closely with procurement teams to evaluate pricing and negotiate costs for system components and materials.
o Prepare pricing proposals and change orders for clients and ensure profitability while meeting client expectations.
3. Collaboration with Stakeholders:
o Work with project managers, installation teams, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure designs can be implemented effectively within the project constraints.
o Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to source the required DAS components and materials.
o Provide technical support to project managers and installation teams during the implementation phase to ensure proper execution of the design.
o Present DAS solutions to clients and provide recommendations based on site conditions, technology requirements, and budget constraints.
4. Client Engagement and Requirements Gathering:
o Conduct site surveys and assessments to understand client requirements and gather data necessary for system design.
o Meet with clients to discuss design options, system requirements, and potential solutions based on business needs.
o Customize designs based on customer needs, which may include voice, data, and emergency services coverage.
o Provide technical explanations and answer client questions to ensure a clear understanding of the DAS solutions being proposed.
5. System Validation and Testing:
o Ensure that the proposed DAS designs align with building codes, safety regulations, and client specifications.
o Work with engineers to validate designs through simulations and test plans to confirm the system's functionality before implementation.
o Perform post-installation testing to ensure the system performs as expected and that coverage is optimal.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
o Maintain accurate documentation for all DAS designs, estimates, and proposals.
o Prepare detailed system drawings, wiring diagrams, and equipment specifications for client review and approval.
o Provide clients with reports on design performance, including coverage maps, capacity estimates, and detailed cost breakdowns.
o Keep records of all project estimates, proposals, change orders, and final system documentation.
7. Continuous Improvement and Research:
o Stay up-to-date with DAS technologies, industry standards, and emerging trends to ensure solutions are innovative and competitive.
o Collaborate with senior engineers and other team members to improve design processes, methodologies, and tools.
o Identify opportunities to optimize DAS designs for efficiency and cost savings while maintaining high-quality standards.
Qualifications: • Education:
o Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, RF Engineering, or a related field. • Experience:
o 5+ years of experience in DAS design, RF engineering, or a related field, with at least 2 years specifically in designing and estimating DAS systems.
o Proven experience with DAS design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD, or similar).
o Strong understanding of RF principles, wireless communication technologies, and DAS components (e.g., antennas, repeaters, cabling, etc.).
o Experience with estimating project costs, including labor, materials, and system components.
o Knowledge of industry standards, codes, and regulations related to DAS systems. • Skills and Abilities:
o Proficiency in DAS design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD).
o Strong analytical skills to assess customer requirements and determine the optimal DAS solution.
o Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to present and explain complex technical concepts to clients.
o Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
o Attention to detail and ability to produce accurate estimates and system designs.
o Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external vendors to ensure project success. • Certifications:
o Professional certifications in RF Engineering, DAS Design, or Telecommunications (e.g., iBwave Certified, Cisco, or similar) are a plus.
Physical Requirements: • Ability to travel to client sites for site surveys, inspections, and meetings as required. • Ability to conduct site assessments and walk through areas requiring DAS installation, including rooftop or underground spaces.