Telecommunications Technician

Grade 17: Starting Hourly Rate: $23.40. Rate of pay depends on qualifications. JOB SUMMARY
The Telecommunications Technician is responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, repair, administration, and project coordination of telecommunication systems - fixed wireless systems, microwave transmission, telephony systems, mass notification systems, cellular services, power systems, and all vital network system components. Reviews and provides specifications for advanced telecommunications products and services for current and future needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintains, installs, repairs, and troubleshoots all network equipment within the telecommunications infrastructure to support Voice, Data, Video, mass notification systems, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Installs, troubleshoots, repairs, and maintains fiber optic and copper cabling systems within the telecommunications infrastructure to include inside wires, outside plant, and power systems.
• Operates sophisticated electronic test equipment and hand tools to install, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, analyze, and test telecommunications systems.
• Uses Radio Frequency monitoring software and equipment to perform interference analysis and frequency allocation/planning.
• Utilizes network monitoring and management tools to monitor the status and performance of telecommunications systems.
• Plans, coordinates, and supervises the construction of telecommunications systems to include new site builds, upgrades, and modifications supporting Voice, Data, Video, mass notification systems, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Assists with RF link budget reviews, site surveys, and physical path studies. Operates a Radio Frequency link planning tool to verify predicted link feasibility.
• Performs network capacity planning and testing using software load simulation in both lab and field environments.
• Assists, and provides guidance to other telecommunication technicians and other internal/external personnel.
• Maintains wireless and wired network reliability, integrity, and quality for continuous connectivity within the telecommunications infrastructure.
• Administers complete and accurate inventory of telecommunications equipment, peripherals, supplies, and materials.
• Performs bench testing and troubleshooting of telecommunications equipment to include coordination of RMA, faulty equipment.
• Tests and evaluates new telecommunications equipment and technology to support future network upgrades and strategic expansion of the SAWS telecommunications network.
• Maintains current knowledge of industry trends, technologies, and basic grounding system maintenance, to include applicable TIA/EIA standards.
• Assists with FAA and FCC license filings, notifications, and registrations.
• Updates databases with information regarding assigned work orders.
• Operates scissor/aerial lifts and associated telecommunications maintenance equipment.
• Transports equipment to include towing, tools, and materials to and from job sites.
• Participates in an on-call rotation to provide 24/7 emergency after-hours support for SAWS network infrastructure.
• Performs other duties as assigned

DECISION MAKING

• This position works under limited supervision.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Four years' experience in the operation and maintenance of Telecommunication equipment and basic radio communications, including two years experience in one or more of the following:
  • Experience working with licensed and unlicensed packet-based microwave radio systems (Cambium, Bridgewave, Exhalt, Dragon Wave, Trio, GE, Redline, or Cisco).
  • Experience working on data/voice networks.
  • Experience working on structured cabling systems, copper, and fiber.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree in Telecommunications, Electronic Technology, Electronic Engineering, or related field from an institution accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
• BICSI, IEEE, ETA, FCC, other Radio Communications Technician licenses, or certificates.
• Four years of experience working with licensed and unlicensed microwave radio systems (Cambium, Bridgewave, Redline, Exhalt, Dragon Wave, Trio, GE, or Cisco).

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Knowledge of basic telecommunications principles, including FCC Rules and Regulations Part 90, pertain to Local Government Radio Services and radio etiquette.
• Basic knowledge of electronic and Radio Frequency theory.
• Basic Knowledge of pertinent FCC/FAA/EPA/OSHA regulations.
• Knowledge of electronic grounding & bonding practices and standards.
• Technical knowledge of telecommunications media: twisted pair, coaxial cable, optical cable, wireless LAN, microwave radio.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers, contractors, vendors, and other organizations.
• Operates a personal computer and associated software programs to access required network systems/equipment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical requirements including lifting/carrying up to 60 pounds. Subject to standing, walking, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing stairs/ladders and working at heights up to 250 feet to perform job scope. Requires good visual acuity, unimpaired hearing, good hand dexterity, the ability to read printed material and to distinguish between colors.