Radio Communication System Technician (7632)

Position: Communication System Technician A (Requisition #7632) | Department: EM&C MOW/Communications and Signals

About the role

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region. In this position, you will keep vital communication systems running at peak performance as a Communications Systems Technician, where you’ll play a critical role in maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing the complex networks that power public safety and transit operations. From radios and fiber optics to advanced dispatch and data systems, you’ll work hands-on with cutting-edge technology to ensure seamless connectivity across vehicles, control centers, and remote sites.

Under the general supervision of the Communications Maintenance Manager, diagnoses, repairs and/or directs repairs of communications equipment including but not limited to, telephone cables, cable carrier systems, baseband systems, mobile and portable radios, base stations, telephone and radio logging equipment, audio/visual systems and computer aided dispatch radio system. Provides systems’ operational administration.

Pay

Starting rate: $40.97/hour, with a scheduled raise to $45.52/hour after six months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, repair, test, and maintain a wide range of communications systems and equipment, including radios, dispatch systems, fiber and wireless networks, CCTV, and telephony systems.
• Troubleshoot issues across complex communication networks, perform preventive maintenance, and ensure systems operate within technical and regulatory standards.
• Install and configure network infrastructure, components, and field equipment across facilities and transit vehicles, while also supporting system upgrades and new technology evaluations.
• Provide technical guidance to other technicians, perform detailed testing and calibration, and contribute to system design, component repair, and performance optimization.
• Maintain system documentation, generate reports, and collaborate with internal teams and external partners to resolve communication issues and ensure reliable operations.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical prints.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic and test equipment (typically gained through at least 2 years of technical training or equivalent experience).
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or equivalent required.
• Hands-on experience inspecting, testing, and repairing communications equipment and data systems.
• Successful completion of the Communications Systems Technician test.
• Ability to learn and apply knowledge of agency communication systems and operations.
• Basic understanding of agency vehicles as they relate to communications and data systems.
• Knowledge of departmental policies, procedures, reports, records, and documentation requirements.

Equipment Used

• System/Network/Analyzer, frequency selective voltmeters, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes
• Fiber optic level/power meter, fiber optic laser test source
• T1/DS1, Bit-error-rate tester, distortion analyzers, battery analyzers
• Desktop and laptop computers, printers and interface devices, built-in-test equipment
• Various meters: volt-ohm (VOM), digital volt (DVM), RF volt, frequency, deviation, integrated circuit tests
• Dummy antennas/loads, signal generators, power supplies, transistor testers
• Soldering iron, circuit punch down tool and hand tools pertinent to the occupation
• Power tools: electric drill, power hammer, grinder and saws
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other safety equipment prescribed by the Authority

Physical Requirements

Sitting 20%; standing, climbing and moving about 80%. Lifts 50 or more pounds. Carries tools and equipment up and down stairs.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to elements during field repairs
• Exposure to bus exhaust fumes and accumulated dust in isolated locations
• Operates communications service vehicle
• Works in close proximity to high voltage
• Walks on catwalks and roofs
• Climbs ladders, towers, scaffolds and stairs
• Works in cramped positions
• Works in close proximity to moving trains, buses, trolleys and maintenance vehicles
• Works in low light environments and tunnels
• Exposure to RF radiation in frequencies up to 12GHz
• May be subject to call 24/7 and during storms and emergencies

Benefits

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Retirement Security – Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Work-Life Balance – Paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays.
• Employee Wellness – Access to wellness programs and resources supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Tuition Reimbursement – Support for education and career advancement.
• Student Loan Assistance – Positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
• Free Travel Perks – FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass with unlimited access to all SEPTA services.