Layer One Network Engineer (Outside Plant)

Responsibilities

• Research and engineer project estimates for Layer 1 outside plant network and communication solutions.
• Engages with engineering teams throughout Avista as well as Avista’s telecommunication shop, electrical shop, and contracted crews to carry out implementation and installation of communications projects.
• This may also involve working with external construction and engineering resources.
• Designing construction prints and providing construction support for aerial and underground fiber optic communications builds.
• Obtaining bids from outside contractors as required.
• Working with civil and governmental agencies to obtain permits.
• Creation of material requisitions for parts needed to complete communications builds.
• Review and documentation of construction changes to provide final construction drawings and ensure that all work matches Avista standards and engineering specifications.
• Reading and interpretation of ODTR test results to verify fiber installation and fiber integrity.

Requirements

• Network Engineer I: BA/BS degree in Computer Science, Information Science, Engineering or related field and 2 years of relevant experience.
• Technology management skills with success in a balanced value driven customer relationship and productivity model.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated technology leadership abilities and proven analytical problem-solving skills.
• Strong process orientation and a clear understanding of the value delivered by developing and validating engineering models with customer requirements.

Qualifications

• Network Engineer II: Includes the above requirements plus 6 years of relevant experience in an enterprise-size company (500 or more employees).
• Knowledge of operations and delivery concepts, principles, standards, tools, techniques, system testing best practices and methodologies.
• Ability to communicate effectively with teammates/in a team environment and across the organization.
• Ability to provide guidance and pass on knowledge, experience, and lessons learned to team members.

Preferred Requirements

• 3+ years of OSP engineering/planning in telecom, broadband, or fiber optic communications experience.
• Knowledge of NESC, NEC, and RUS codes and practices.
• Experience with fiber optic-based data communications equipment and testing equipment.
• Solid understanding of fiber optic principles including mechanical design criteria for aerial and underground fiber optic cabling.
• Ability to read fiber traces and fiber characterization reports generated from OTDR testing.
• Ability to understand fiber splicing designs and schematics.
• Proficiency with Microsoft office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Proficiency with AutoCAD.
• Experience with ESRI based GIS systems.
• Willingness and ability to learn new skills as required.

Benefits

Total Rewards: At Avista, our employees are the foundation of our success. Their dedication drives the value we deliver to our customers and communities. That’s why we prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our team members and their families. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program designed to support every stage of life and career. Our offerings include:

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retail benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match.
• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions.
• Competitive paid time off including holidays, personal days, and vacation.
• Life and disability insurance for added peace of mind.
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health.
• Education and development support including tuition assistance.
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact.
• Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation).

To learn more, please visit our benefits website at https://avistabenefits.com/.

We are committed to maintaining a competitive and equitable total rewards package that attracts and retains a diverse, skilled, and engaged workforce. In compliance with state laws, we provide the full salary range for each position, along with the typical hiring range based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The full salary range for this position is $42.46 to $78.17 per hour.