Network Specialist - OSP Engineering

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? The Network Specialist – Outside Plant (OSP) Engineering is expected to assist in the creation of OSP Design maps using GIS.

You will have to understand numerous projects, possibly located in multiple locations and states. You will continually monitor design costs and job progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. 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. You are expected to work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, and consultants for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure that the needs of the company are being met.

You will be responsible for the design of fiber networks while conforming to existing TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards established for the Telecom Network Services. This role offers telecommuting flexibility; however, due to business requirements and in‑market travel, candidates must reside within Utah. Preference may be given to applicants located in the following Utah cities:
St. George, Ivins, Hurricane, Cedar City, or Santa Clara. This position can be hired at either a Network Specialist – Outside Plant Engineering, Network Specialist I – Outside Plant Engineering, or Network Specialist II – Outside Plant Engineering level depending on the skills and qualifications of the candidate.

• 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 states.
• 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 interact with the legal department to ensure that the company is not at risk in any asset transfers. Assist in the engineering phase of the projects if needed, creating labor, material, and overhead project cost estimates.
• Provide audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency. The audits 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, cleanup 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, VMOPs, 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, ADs, and HLDROMs.
• Partner with Regional OSPE members on the use, functions, and tools within GIS.
• Review data for impacts to builds (e.g.: road moves).
• Create processes and tools for mobile use of GIS for data collection and consumption.
• Provide technical leadership in evaluating current GIS products offered on the market and provide recommendations for upgrades and changes in methods of practices for TDS. Includes application upgrades and data sources.

• Required Qualifications
  • Associate degree (or higher) – OR – 2+ years professional work experience.
  • 2+ years’ experience in Voice, Data or Video networking.
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance.
• Other…