Telecom Engineer Senior/Principal

Independently plans, researches, evaluates, designs, and develops network systems. Prepares detailed specifications and documentation from high-level designs. Configures, installs, and determines performance of networks. Troubleshoots and resolves technical issues.

About the role

This position is centered around IP Network Technology, supporting and engineering Operational Technology networks as well as CORE and Backbone networks. It will support Transmission, Distribution, and Generation environments and is open to candidates in Columbus, OH or Tulsa, OK. Vendor technologies include Cisco, Arista, and Palo Alto. Vendor toolsets include Cisco SDWan Manager, Cisco FMC, Cisco FND, SolarWinds, and Arista CloudVision.

Responsibilities

• Plans, evaluates, designs, installs, configures, troubleshoots, and analyzes performance of telecommunication networks and systems; resolves technical issues.
• Ensures all work activities comply with company policies, practices, procedures, standards, and regulations.
• Coordinates and monitors work activities using approved applications and tools for projects.
• Prepares cost estimates and documents project work using established guidelines.
• Leads, facilitates, and coordinates work activities of others within the team or department, including project management for assigned tasks.
• Utilizes economic analysis techniques in project development and approval; participates in business/technical planning by establishing measurable goals and requirements.
• Performs routine engineering activities with minimal direction from higher-level employees.
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of AEP networks, components, and facilities to improve project and problem-solving efficiency.
• Participates in the development of standards relevant to the assigned area.
• Learns AEP's organizational structure and the role of the assigned unit.
• Occasional travel required.

Requirements

Telecom Consultant Senior (SG8)

• Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering technology, computer science, telecommunications, or related field.
• Alternative Education/Experience:
  • Associate's degree in the above fields with 2 years of relevant work experience.
  • High school diploma/GED with 4 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience: 5 years of relevant work experience in addition to any experience mentioned above.
• Licenses/Certifications: Valid Driver's License.

Telecom Consultant Principal (SG9)

• Education:
  • Associate degree or equivalent 2-year technical degree in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related field.
  • Military training/experience in a related technology field.
  • High school diploma with a minimum of 2 years of related work experience or industry knowledge.
• Experience:
  • Must demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills as a qualifying Telecom Field Technician Senior.
  • At least 7 years of technical work experience in addition to education requirements.
  • For internal candidates: Minimum of 2 years of satisfactory work experience as a Telecom Field Technician Senior, completion of all required training, and demonstrated knowledge and skills of an experienced Telecom Field Technician Senior.
• Licenses/Certifications:
  • Valid state driver’s license.
  • Preference for Engineering in Training (EIT) Certificate or Cisco CCNA Certification.

Skills

• Solid knowledge of communications technologies and inter-networking principles.
• Superior technical skills in a single area of specialization.
• Competency in analytical techniques for handling complex assignments.
• Understanding of telecom equipment, materials, systems, and business processes.
• Ability to keep abreast of new products, developments, technologies, procedures, and equipment.
• Ability to develop new approaches and make informed decisions in uncertain or unprecedented situations.
• Ability to analyze uncertain input and outcomes to make long-range decisions.
• Problem-solving skills for routine issues, including analysis of inadequate or conflicting data.
• Understanding of interrelationships between systems and component equipment.
• Ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.
• Collaboration skills within work groups, departments, or other corporate entities.
• Ability to provide cross-training and conduct training sessions.
• Initiative to correct actions when project objectives are not met.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
• Openness to new ideas and approaches.
• Customer-focused attitude to satisfy internal and external stakeholders.
• Understanding of how technical strategies impact business units and functions.
• Initiative to seek opportunities and present new ideas.
• Professional and open interpersonal skills.
• Effective meeting leadership and facilitation.
• Commitment to continuous learning and skill development.

Core Competencies

• Continuous improvement
• Team player
• Assume positive intent
• Safety-first focus
• Continuous learning
• Professionalism

Where you’ll work

This role is on-site at Gahanna, Ohio or Tulsa General Office.

Pay

• Telecom Consultant Senior (SG8): $96,110 - $124,940
• Telecom Consultant Principal (SG9): $112,869 - $146,730

Benefits

AEP offers a comprehensive benefits package aimed at supporting and enhancing the overall well-being of employees, including:

• Competitive compensation
• Company-sponsored training programs
• Educational assistance
• Social and recreational programs
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits

Physical Demands

Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may include walking or standing for brief periods.