Network Specialist - OSP Construction

Join to apply for the Network Specialist - OSP Construction role at TDS Telecommunications LLC

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? Our Network Services team has an exciting opportunity for a Network Specialist - OSP Construction to join us in our Great Falls, Montana market!

In this role, you will coordinate, plan, and supervise outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations, and may supervise consulting resources in engineering and construction phases. You will work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to ensure company needs are met while implementing fiber networks in compliance with TDS OSP guidelines and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) standards.

You may also assist in engineering OSP projects, including labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.

As a Network Specialist - OSP Construction, you will oversee numerous construction projects across multiple locations, monitor costs and progress to ensure timely, on‑budget completion, and communicate with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from road improvements. You may negotiate with municipalities or other utility companies to purchase, lease, or sell ducts, fiber, or complete networks.

Note: This position requires residency within 30 miles of Great Falls, Montana to support in‑market needs.

• Coordinate OSP projects, supervise consultants for field construction and splicing in multiple locations and states, and provide technical support for special projects.
• Ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and compliance with legal and rights‑of‑way requirements, assisting with engineering phase cost estimates.
• Audit OSP projects, coach consultants and contractors for accuracy and consistency, and ensure NESC and TDS OSP standard compliance.
• Review field reports and contractor invoicing for accuracy, manage construction projects for quality, clean‑up resolution, and documentation.
• Meet Sarbanes‑Oxley and other departmental compliance (Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights‑of‑Way, Contract Administration), conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid, and pre‑construction meetings, and verify right‑of‑way, easements, permits, cable sizing, and routing designs.
• Verify all documentation required for project success, including bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, and close‑out documentation.
• Adapt quickly to new GIS‑based construction tracking methods, 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 – OR – 6+ months TDS Telecom technical internship experience
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance

• 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 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 techniques
• Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints

We believe in taking care of our team. Associates working 20+ hours per week receive:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays…