Network Specialist - OSP Construction

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

Responsible for coordinating, planning, and supervising outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations. Depending upon workload, may supervise consulting resources in engineering and/or construction phases. Works with network operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers and construction contractors to ensure company needs are met.

Responsible for implementation of fiber networks while conforming to TDS OSP guidelines and standards. Must stay current with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and ensure construction complies with NESC standards.

May assist in engineering of OSP projects, creating labor, material and overhead project estimates.

Oversees numerous construction projects located in multiple locations, monitoring costs and progress to ensure completion on time and within budget. Maintains ongoing communication with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network, negotiating with municipalities or other utility companies for purchase, lease or sale of inner ducts, fiber or entire fiber networks.

Ideal candidate resides in or near Appleton, Green Bay, Kimberly, Little Chute, Menasha or Neenah, Wisconsin.

• Coordinate OSP projects and supervise consultants responsible for outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations.
• 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 with the legal department to mitigate risk in asset transfers.
• Assist in engineering phase of projects, creating labor, material and overhead cost estimates.
• Conduct audits of OSP projects and coach consultants/contractors to ensure accuracy, consistency and compliance with NESC and TDS OSP standards.
• Review field personnel reports and contractor invoicing for accuracy, manage construction quality, cleanup resolution and documentation, and keep projects progressing.
• Ensure compliance with Sarbanes‑Oxley guidelines and coordinate with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights‑of‑Way and Contract Administration.
• Conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid and pre‑construction meetings, verifying right‑of‑way, easements, permits, cable sizing and facility routing.
• Confirm that all required documentation (bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, close‑out documentation) is complete.
• Adapt quickly to new GIS‑based construction tracking methods, new construction methods and evolving architecture types.

• Associate’s degree (or higher) – OR – 2+ years of professional work experience.
• 3+ years experience in Voice, Data or Video networking.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and insurance.

• Availability to travel to construction sites daily as required.
• Experience in OSP construction and/or engineering (fiber, copper or coax) – OR – related utility/municipal construction and/or engineering – OR – construction project management, utility installation technician, general trades preferred.
• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations and communication skills.
• Self‑directed and able to work independently.
• ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis or other GIS experience.
• Proficient working in a digital environment.
• Understanding of telecommunications industry 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…