Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction

Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Construction

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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. Dedicated to excellence, we succeed together and create a better world through meaningful connections.

The Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Construction is responsible for coordinating, planning, and supervising outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and may supervise consulting resources. The role works independently with network operations, managers, consultants, design engineers and construction contractors to ensure the company’s needs are met. It involves implementing fiber networks while adhering to TDS OSP guidelines, staying current with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), assisting in engineering and project estimates, monitoring costs and progress, and communicating with government agencies to protect the OSP network.

Due to in‑market support needs, candidates must reside within 150 miles of Birmingham, Alabama. While this position offers telecommute privileges from home, regular travel is expected for in‑market support.

• Coordinate OSP projects and supervise consultants responsible for outside plant field construction and splicing operations.
• Provide technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or on‑net builds.
• Work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities and with the legal department to mitigate asset‑transfer risk.
• Assist in the engineering phase of projects, creating labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
• Audit OSP projects and coach consultants/contractors to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with NESC and TDS OSP standards.
• Review field reports and contractor invoicing for accuracy; manage construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean‑up resolution, documentation, and progress.
• Ensure compliance with Sarbanes‑Oxley guidelines and coordination with Network Operations, Planning, Right‑of‑Way, and Contract Administration.
• Conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid, and pre‑construction meetings; verify right‑of‑way, easements, permits, cable sizing, and facility routing.
• Validate all documentation required for project completion, including bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, and close‑out documentation.
• Adapt quickly to new GIS‑based construction tracking methods, construction methods, and changing architecture types.

• Associate Degree (or higher) – OR – 2+ years professional work experience.
• 3+ years experience in Voice, Data, or Video networking.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance.

• Ability to travel to construction sites daily.
• Experience in OSP Construction and/or Engineering (fiber, copper, or coax) or related Utility/Municipal Construction, or Construction Project Management, Utility Installation Technician, or General Trades.
• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
• Self‑directed with the ability to work independently.
• ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, Spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.
• Proficient in digital work environments.
• Understanding of Telecommunications industry principles.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Project Management experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in PC database, spreadsheet, and word processing.
• Knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards.
• Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with diverse work groups.
• Understanding of FTTH design and construction techniques.
• Understanding of unit‑based construction contracts.
• Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

The associate regularly sits, stands, writes, operates a computer keyboard, uses standard office equipment and telephone, and frequently communicates with customers. The associate…