JOB SUMMARY
The Telecommunications Specialist is responsible for the administration and implementation, project planning and coordination, installation and repair, advanced troubleshooting and maintenance of telecommunication systems - fixed wireless systems, microwave transmission, structured cabling, telephony systems, mass notification systems, cellular services, power systems, and all vital network system components. Reviews and provides specifications for telecommunications products and services for current and future needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs complex maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, repairs for licensed and unlicensed microwave radio systems, power systems, network equipment, and cabling systems - inside and outside cable plant within the telecommunications infrastructure to support Voice, Data, Video, mass notification systems, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Operates sophisticated electronic test equipment, and hand tools to install, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, analyze, and test 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.
• Performs Radio Frequency Management – allocation and planning of RF Spectrum using RF monitoring software and test equipment to include interference analysis, and troubleshooting.
• Creates and reviews Radio Frequency link budgets, conducts site surveys, and physical path studies. Utilizes a radio frequency path prediction software to determine link feasibility.
• Performs network capacity planning and testing using software load simulation in both lab and field environments.
• Utilizes management tools to maintain the status and performance of telecommunications systems.
• Responds to network performance issues - wire and wireless through alerting tools.
• Performs physical installation and applies base configuration template of Cisco routers and switches.
• Assists and mentors other telecommunication technicians, as well as 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 of faulty equipment.
• Tests and evaluates new telecommunications equipment and technology to support future network upgrades and strategic expansion of SAWS telecommunications network.
• Maintains current knowledge of industry trends, technologies, and basic grounding system maintenance, to include applicable TIA/EIA standards.
• Coordinates and administers 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 on-call rotation to provide 24/7 emergency after-hours support for SAWS network infrastructure.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• This position works under limited supervision.

• Associate’s degree in Telecommunications, Electronic Technology, Electronic Engineering, or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
• Four years' experience in the operation and maintenance of Telecommunication systems, including two years’ experience in one of the following:
  • Experience working with licensed and unlicensed packet-based microwave radio systems (Cambium, Redline, Exalt, Dragon Wave, Trio, GE, or Cisco) and/or
  • Experience working on data, voice, RF networks, and structured cabling systems – copper & fiber.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.

• Bachelor's Degree in Telecommunications, Electronics Technology or Electronic Engineering or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency or equivalent experience.
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Wireless or Security specialization or Wireless Communications Engineering certification, (such as IEEE WCET, CWNP, or WCP) or other Telecommunications Certifications - BICSI or ETA or FCC or other Radio Communications Technician licenses.

• Knowledge of advanced telecommunications principles, including FCC Rules and Regulations Part 90, pertaining to Local Government Radio Services and radio etiquette.
• Advanced knowledge of electronic and Radio Frequency theory.
• Advanced 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.