Communications Technician

Technology Services

Responsibilities include the following tasks:

• Follow established procedures to install network infrastructure including Cat 5 or above copper cable and multi-mode/single mode fiber optic cable.
• Locate outside plant cable as required.
• Repair breakdowns or malfunctions in isolated pieces of circuits, e.g., troubleshoot voice and data.
• Communicate with departments and vendors, as needed, during installation and fault location.
• Assist with testing and be available to perform emergency back‑up procedures.
• Make assignments of communication media and equipment for specific services; update circuit information; assist with labeling equipment; maintain network documentation and equipment specifications.
• Know basic communications technology and observe its applications.
• Participate in occasional training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

An entry‑level position responsible for data and/or voice communications, circuit troubleshooting, and network documentation within the defined procedures and standards. This position works under the general supervision of a designated technician and/or manager.

• Follow established procedures to install network infrastructure including Cat 5 or above copper cable and multi-mode/single mode fiber optic cable.
• Locate outside plant cable as required.
• Repair breakdowns or malfunctions in isolated pieces of circuits, e.g., troubleshoot voice and data.
• Communicate with departments and vendors, as needed, during installation and fault location.
• Assist with testing and be available to perform emergency back‑up procedures.
• Make assignments of communication media and equipment for specific services; update circuit information; assist with labeling equipment; maintain network documentation and equipment specifications.
• Know basic communications technology and observe its applications.
• Participate in occasional training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Extreme Heat:
  Occasionally
• Noise:
  Occasionally
• Hazards:
  Occasionally
• Fumes/Particles/Allergens:
  Occasionally
• Heights:
  Frequently
• Tight Spaces:
  Frequently

Use of hand tools, climbing ladders, the ability to distinguish colors, and lifting (transporting) of heavy objects weighing upwards of 50 lbs is essential to performance of the work.

The work environment generally includes offices, basements, crawlspaces, and attics of campus buildings. Communication nodes, manholes and equipment closets are additional work areas. Working in high areas outside of a building may be required. The majority of work is performed at field sites and requires the use of a department vehicle. Safety is stressed in all aspects of the job.

• Any one or any combination totaling one (1) year (12 months) from the categories below:
• College/vocational/technical training in applied sciences and technologies, fiber optic installation, telecommunications, electronics engineering/technology, or a related technical field, as measured by the following conversion table to its proportional equivalent:
• 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
• Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
• OR work experience in telecommunications, fiber optic installations, or electrical installation.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required by the State of Illinois for the type of motor vehicle(s) to be operated by the incumbent.

Work experience installing and maintaining data networks with Cat 5 and above cable for educational or commercial use in compliance with TIA/EIA or NEC standards. Work experience with the installation, termination and certification of fiber optic cable.

Knowledge of telecommunications technology, practices, principles, and techniques. Skill in using electronic test equipment. Skill in installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Skill in mechanical and analytical problem‑solving. Ability to read and follow schematics and diagrams. Ability to work successfully as a team member and independently with moderate supervision.