Communications Technician

Communications Technician 3

Are you passionate about keeping people connected? Join our team as a Communications Technician 3 and play a key role in supporting the Iowa Department of Transportation’s (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). communication systems across the state. From radio networks to cutting-edge wireless technology, you’ll ensure our infrastructure runs smoothly and reliably.

Iowa DOT’s Mission is Making Lives Better Through Transportation. To accomplish our Mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s five CORE values:
Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception.

Location: District 3 – Northwest, Iowa

Schedule: Full-time, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM;
On‑call 24/7 for emergencies and travel across Iowa, including overnight stays.

As a Communications Technician 3, you’ll take on a variety of technical and hands‑on responsibilities, including:

• Install, program, and maintain radio and wireless systems in DOT facilities and vehicles, ensuring reliable communication statewide.
• Troubleshoot and repair network systems
  , partnering with engineers to resolve issues with circuits, routers, switches, and wireless access points.
• Configure and maintain IP security cameras and video systems at driver’s license stations and enforcement sites.
• Install and service communication equipment in specialty vehicles
  , including radios, cameras, radar systems, and emergency lighting.
• Maintain telephone and cellular systems
  , including VoIP and related cabling infrastructure.
• Inspect and coordinate maintenance for antenna sites, towers, and related infrastructure
  , ensuring compliance with FCC and FAA standards.
• Provide training and documentation to end users on communication equipment and systems.
• Collaborate with vendors and contractors to oversee installations and repairs, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions and able to lift heavy equipment (up to 75 lbs with assistance).
• Strong understanding of telecommunications principles and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills for collaborating with team members, vendors, and end users.

Special Requirements

• Must successfully pass a background check and maintain certification for the Iowa System and National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
• Must possess and maintain a valid Class C driver’s license.
• On call 24 hours a day when necessary and be able to travel and may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.
• Within five (5) months, employees are required to reside within 45 minutes driving time, during normal conditions, from the assigned work location in northwestern Iowa.

Benefits as a State of Iowa employee

• Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance.
• Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment and costs can be reviewed here.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Paid time off effective immediately – biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match.
• Optional 401A plan with employer contributions.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial).

We encourage you to view more about the State of Iowa Employee benefits and costs at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website!

You have the freedom to flourish in Iowa – Apply now!

The Iowa Department of Transportation is an equal‑opportunity employer. If you require a reasonable accommodation in completing any screening, interviewing, pre‑employment testing, or otherwise participating in the selection process, please direct your request to the affirmative action & equal employment opportunity (AA/EEO) Officer at aa-eeo

Reasonable accommodation such as interpreter, translator,…