<h2>Overview</h2> <p>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?</p> <p> </p> <p>The <strong>Network Specialist I - Outside Plant (OSP) Engineering </strong>is expected to assist in the creation of OSP Design maps using GIS. You will have to understand numerous projects, possibly located in multiple locations and states. You will continually monitor design costs and monitor job progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.</p> <p> </p> <p>The individual filling this position is responsible for continually working with various governmental agencies to protect the TDS OSP network from being jeopardized by permitting requirements or proposed road improvements. You may be required to negotiate with municipalities, other utility companies from a network and a legal perspective for the purchase, lease and/or sale of inner ducts, fiber and/or complete networks.</p> <p> </p> <p>You are expected to work independently with representatives from network operations, associate managers, and consultants for TDS Telecom Network Services to ensure that the needs of the company are being met. You will be responsible for the design of fiber networks while conforming to existing TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines and TDS OSP standards established for the Telecom Network Services.</p> <p> </p> <p>This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the 40+ States in which TDS Telecom operates. The hiring team may show preference to candidates who reside in the following Idaho cities: Boise, Nampa, Cladwell, Meridian, Garden City, Twin Falls, Jerome, Burley or Heyburn.</p> <p> </p> <p><em>This position can be hired at either a Network Specialist - Outside Plant Engineering (2026-29401) or Network Specialist I - Outside Plant Engineering (2026-29402) 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.</em></p> <h2>Responsibilities</h2> <ul> <li>Responsible for the design of OSP projects and/or supervision of consultants who are responsible for coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations in multiple locations and states. </li> <li>Provide technical support for special request projects such as major road moves or potential on-net builds. You must work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and interact with the legal department to ensure that the company is not at risk in any asset transfers. If needed, assist in the engineering phase of the projects. This involves creating labor, material, and overheads project cost estimates.</li> <li>Provide audits of OSP projects and coach consultants and/or contractors to ensure accuracy and consistency. The audits will ensure compliance with National Electrical Code standards and current TDS OSP standards.</li> <li>Review all required reports from field personnel and contractor invoicing for accuracy. Manage projects by reviewing quality of work, clean up resolution, proper maintenance of project documentation and continual review of project progress.</li> <li>Verify that all documentation required to complete projects successfully, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOP's, and close out documentation is complete.</li> <li>Create and perform analysis on network designs for the OSP teams utilizing GIS tools and extensions. Provide the data back for the OSP teams to use in strategic decisions, AD's, and HLDROM's.</li> <li>Partner with Regional OSPE members on the use, functions, and tools within GIS.</li> <li>Review data for impacts to builds (e.g.: road moves).</li> <li>Create processes and tools for mobile use of GIS for data collection and consumption.</li> <li>Provide technical leadership in evaluating current GIS products being offered on the market and provides recommendations for upgrades and changes in methods of practices for TDS. Includes application upgrades and data sources.</li> </ul> <h2>Qualifications</h2> <p><strong>Required Qualifications</strong></p> <ul> <li>Associate degree (or higher) -OR- 2+ years professional work experience.</li> <li>3+ years’ experience in Voice, Data or Video networking.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Other Qualifications</strong></p> <ul> <li>GIS, ESRI, ArcGIS and/or spatial analysis experience</li> <li>Experience in Telephony or related fields</li> <li>Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills</li> <li>Thorough understanding of Telecommunications industry and principles</li> <li>Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously</li> <li>Excellent written and oral communication skills</li> <li>PC database, spreadsheet, and word processing skills</li> <li>Advanced working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards</li> <li>Ability to work in a cooperative and courteous manner with diverse work groups</li> <li>Ability to read and assess fiber and/or HFC designs and prints</li> </ul> <p>Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what’s listed on paper, but they can still lead to success. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Benefits</strong></p> <p>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!</p> <p>Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to:</p> <ul> <li>Medical Coverage</li> <li>Dental Coverage</li> <li>Vision Coverage</li> <li>Life Insurance</li> <li>401(k) Plan</li> <li>Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave</li> <li>Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday</li> <li>Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)</li> <li>Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance</li> <li>Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs </li> </ul> <p>Associates working 30 or more hours per week additionally have access to:</p> <ul> <li>Short-Term & Long-Term Disability</li> <li>TDS Service Discounts</li> <li>Education Assistance</li> <li>Paid Volunteer Time</li> </ul> <p>In addition to these benefits, all associates will have the opportunity to participate in our Associate Resource Groups, which are designed to encourage community and facilitate professional development. To learn more, click here.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Who is TDS Telecom?</strong></p> <p>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! </p> <p> </p> <p>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.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Pay Transparency</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <h2>Pay Range (Hr./Yr.)</h2>$70,500.00/Yr. - $114,500.00/Yr.