Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction

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?

As a Network Specialist – Outside Plant Construction
, you will coordinate, plan, and supervise outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations. You may supervise consulting resources, and work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to ensure the company’s needs are met. You will implement fiber networks while conforming to TDS Outside Plant guidelines and national standards, stay current with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and oversee project estimates, costs, progress, and communication with governmental agencies for asset protection and negotiations.

• Coordinate OSP projects and/or supervise consultants responsible for outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states, provide technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or on‑net builds, and work with Finance and the legal department to manage assets and transfers while creating labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
• Audit OSP projects; coach consultants and contractors to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with NESC and TDS OSP standards.
• Review reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy, manage construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean‑up resolution, maintain documentation, and track progress.
• Ensure Sarbanes–Oxley compliance and collaborate with Network Operations, Planning, Rights‑of‑Way, and Contract Administration, conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid, and pre‑construction meetings, verify right‑of‑way, easements, permits, and proper cable sizing and routing.
• Verify completion of all documentation—bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, and close‑out records.
• Adapt quickly to emerging GIS‑based construction tracking, new construction methods, and rapidly changing architecture types.

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

• Experience in OSP construction and/or engineering (fiber, copper, or coax), related utility/municipal construction, or construction project management.
• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication 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 the telecommunications industry and principals.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Project management experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with PC database, spreadsheet, and word‑processing tools.
• Working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards.
• Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with diverse work groups.
• Understanding of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) design and construction techniques.
• Understanding of unit‑based construction contracts.
• Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

For associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Generous vacation and paid sick leave
• Seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday
• Paid parental leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption and surrogacy assistance
• Employee assistance and wellness programs

For associates working 30 or more hours per week additional benefits include:

• Short‑term and long‑term disability
• TDS service discounts
• Education assistance
• Paid volunteer time

All associates also have the opportunity to participate in Associate Resource Groups that encourage community and professional development.

At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the difference of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers are based on skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role‑specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation such as bonuses or equity awards.

$61,300.00 / Yr. – $99,600.00 / Yr.