Network Specialist - Outside Plant 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?

As a Network Specialist – Outside Plant Construction, you will coordinate, plan, and supervise outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations. Depending on workload, you may supervise consulting resources in the engineering and/or construction phases of projects. You will work independently with representatives from network operations, managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure company needs are met.

You will oversee the implementation of fiber networks while conforming to existing TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and standards, stay current with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and ensure all construction complies with NESC standards. Depending on the area, you may also assist in the engineering of OSP projects, including creating labor, material, and overhead project estimates.

The role includes monitoring project costs and progress, ensuring completion on time and within budget, and maintaining ongoing communication with governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from road improvements. You may also negotiate with municipalities or utility companies regarding the purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete fiber networks.

Location:

The ideal candidate will reside in Cedar City, Saint George, or Hurricane, Utah to be available for in‑market support and travel.

Position:
Depending on skills and qualifications, this posting may correspond to Network Specialist – Outside Plant Construction (requisition ‑29526) or Network Specialist I – Outside Plant Construction (requisition ‑29527). Refer to the specific posting for the minimum qualifications applicable to each level and apply for each level that you are interested in and qualified for.

• Coordinate OSP projects and/or supervise consultants responsible for 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 with the legal department to mitigate asset‑transfer risks. Assist in the engineering phase of projects by creating labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
• Audit OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency. Ensure compliance with NESC standards and current TDS OSP standards.
• Review all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy. Manage construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean‑up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation, and continual review of project progress.
• Ensure that the TDS OSP group complies with Sarbanes‑Oxley guidelines and collaborates with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights‑of‑Way, and Contract Administration. Conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid, and pre‑construction meetings as required.
• Verify that proper right‑of‑way, easements, and permits are obtained and that designs for proper cable sizing and facility routing are adequate.
• Verify that all documentation required to complete projects successfully— including bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, and close‑out documentation—is complete.
• Adapt quickly in an ever‑changing environment to new GIS‑based construction tracking methods, new construction methods, and rapidly changing architecture types.

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

• Experience in OSP Construction and/or Engineering (fiber, copper, or coax) – OR – related…