Network Specialist - Outside Plant Construction

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities and are dedicated to excellence. The Network Specialist – Outside Plant Construction will coordinate, plan, and supervise outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations. The role may involve supervising consulting resources during engineering and construction phases, working independently with network operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, and construction contractors to meet company needs. Responsibilities include implementing fiber networks in accordance with TDS Outside Plant (OSP) guidelines, staying current with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and potentially assisting in OSP project engineering and cost estimating. The position supports multiple construction projects, monitors costs and progress, and communicates with governmental agencies to protect the OSP network. Candidates should reside within a reasonable commuting distance of Cedar City, Saint George, or Hurricane, Utah. This posting may be for either the Network Specialist – Outside Plant Construction (requisition #2026‑29947) or Network Specialist I – Outside Plant Construction (requisition #2026‑29948); applicants should reference the appropriate posting for minimum qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate OSP projects and supervise consultants responsible for outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states.
• Provide technical support for special‑request projects such as major road moves or potential on‑net builds.
• Work with Finance to ensure proper accounting of facilities placed and with Legal to mitigate asset‑transfer risks.
• Assist in the engineering phase by 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 personnel reports and contractor invoicing for accuracy.
• Manage construction projects by reviewing work quality, clean‑up resolution, documentation maintenance, and progress tracking.
• Ensure compliance with Sarbanes‑Oxley guidelines and coordination with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights‑of‑Way, and Contract Administration.
• Conduct pre‑staking, pre‑bid, and pre‑construction meetings as required.
• Verify acquisition of proper right‑of‑way, easements, permits, and design specifications for cable sizing and facility routing.
• Ensure all project documentation (bid jobs, build orders, job start agreements, VMOPs, close‑out documents) is complete.
• Adapt quickly to new GIS‑based construction tracking methods, construction techniques, and evolving architecture types.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

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

Other Qualifications (preferred)

• Experience in OSP construction and/or engineering (fiber, copper, or coax) – OR related utility/municipal construction and/or engineering – OR construction project management, utility installation technician, general trades.
• Fiber optic implementation experience.
• Excellent leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
• Self‑directed with ability to work independently.
• ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, spatial analysis, or other GIS experience.
• Proficiency in a digital work environment.
• Understanding of telecommunications industry principles.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Project management experience.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• PC database, spreadsheet, and word‑processing skills.
• Working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards.
• Cooperative, courteous teamwork with diverse groups.
• Understanding of FTTH design and construction techniques.
• Knowledge of unit‑based construction contracts.
• Ability to read and interpret FTTH construction prints.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance.
• 401(k) plan.
• Generous vacation and paid sick leave.
• Seven paid national holidays plus one floating holiday.
• Paid parental leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment).
• Adoption and surrogacy assistance.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability (for associates working 30 + hours/week).
• TDS service discounts.
• Education assistance.
• Paid volunteer time.
• Access to Associate Resource Groups for community building and professional development.

Pay

Pay range: $61,300 – $99,600 per year (base salary). Actual offers will consider skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role‑specific competencies; additional compensation such as bonuses or equity may be available.