Network Specialist OSP 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? Our Network Services team has an exciting opportunity for a Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction!

Job Description

In this role, youll be responsible for coordinating, planning, and supervising outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations. Depending upon workload, you may be required to supervise consulting resources in the engineering and/or construction phase of the projects. You will be expected to work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure that the needs of the company are being met.

You will be responsible for the implementation of fiber networks while conforming to existing TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards established for the Telecom Network Services. Youll be expected to stay current with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and ensure our construction is always in compliance with NESC standards. Depending on the area, you may be required to assist in the engineering of the OSP projects. This involves, among other things, creating the labor, material, and overhead project estimates.

As a Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction, youll be expected to oversee numerous construction projects, possibly located in multiple locations. You will continually monitor costs and job progress to ensure that construction projects are completed on time and within budget. Youll also be responsible for ongoing communication with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from being jeopardized by proposed road improvements and may be required to negotiate with municipalities or other utility companies from a network and a legal perspective for the purchase, lease, and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber, and/or complete fiber networks.

Requirements

To support in-market needs and travel requirements, the preferred candidate will reside in, or within a reasonable commuting distance of, Birmingham, Alabama; Huntsville, Alabama; Rome, Georgia; or Chattanooga, Tennessee. This position can be hired at a Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction (2026-28845) or Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Construction (2025-28847) level depending on the skills and qualifications of the candidate. Separate job postings outline the minimum requirements for each role. Please review both postings and apply to any level for which you are qualified and interested.

Responsibilities

As a Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction, your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinating OSP projects and/or supervising consultants who are responsible for coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states.
• Providing technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or potential on-net builds.
• Working with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and interacting with the legal department to ensure that the company is not at risk in any asset transfers.
• Assisting in the engineering phase of projects, which involves creating labor, material, and overhead project cost estimates.
• Conducting audits of OSP projects and coaching consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Reviewing all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy.
• Managing construction projects by reviewing quality of work, clean up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation, and continual review of project progress.
• Ensuring that the TDS OSP group complies with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and other departments such as Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
• Conducting pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
• Verifying that proper right-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained and designs for proper cable sizing and facility routing are made.
• Ensuring that all documentation required to complete projects successfully, including bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, and close-out documentation, is complete.
• Adapting quickly in an ever-changing environment to new GIS-based construction tracking methods, new construction methods, and rapidly changing architecture types.

Qualifications

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following qualifications:

• 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 drivers license, reliable transportation, and insurance
• Other Qualifications:
• Experience in OSP Construction and/or Engineering (fiber or copper or coax) - OR - related Utility/Municipal Construction and/or Engineering - OR - Construction Project Management, Utility Installation Technician, General Trades experience preferred
• Fiber optic implementation experience
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communications skills
• Self-directed and ability to work independently
• ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, Spatial analysis or other GIS experience
• Proficient working in a digital environment
• Understanding of Telecommunications industry and principals
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Excellent written and oral communications skills
• PC database, spreadsheet, and word processing skills
• Working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards
• Ability to work in a cooperative and courteous manner with diverse work groups
• Understanding of Fiber to The Home (FTTH) design and construction techniques
• Understanding of Unit-based construction contracts
• Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints

Benefits

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well-being, and overall happiness. Join us and experience a work environment where your well-being is a top priority!

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• TDS Service Discounts
• Education Assistance
• Paid Volunteer Time

About TDS Telecom

TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Visit tdstelecom.com to learn more!

Equal Employment Opportunity

At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the difference of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law. Pay Transparency The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards. Pay Range (Hr./Yr.) $61,300.00/Yr. - $99,600.00/Yr.