Network Specialist I

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting-edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

The Network Specialist I is a highly technical role responsible for completing small, well-defined tasks and projects involving network design, engineering, configuration, and operational support across TDS's integrated voice, video, and data network infrastructure.

The individual in this position will support one or more of the following Network Services functional areas:

• Network Infrastructure Planning
• Network Engineering
• Technology Development
• Operational Readiness
• Network Translations
• Circuit Design
• Network Design
• Configuration Management
• Advanced Technical Support
• Service Activation

This position can be hired at either a Network Specialist (2026-29341) or Network Specialist I (2026-29342) level depending on the skills and qualifications of the candidate. Separate job postings outline the minimum requirements for each role. Please review both postings and apply to any level for which you are qualified and interested.

Responsibilities

• Understands and follows established processes, and completes assigned work in accordance with established quality measures to Plan, Engineer, Implement, Optimize or Operate TDS's combined Voice/Video/Data network infrastructure.
• Makes use of quality improvement techniques, and participates in process improvement and management activities.
• Grow technical skills as they pertain to TDS's network infrastructure through a variety of mechanism including self-training, formal classes and coaching.
• Utilizes vendor contact in accordance with TDS contractual obligations. Understands and initiates appropriate level of vendor use.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Associates degree (or higher) -OR- 2+ years of professional work experience.
• 3+ years of experience in Voice, Data, or Video networking.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, reliable transportation and insurance.

Other Qualifications

Technical:

Is familiar with the following areas and has a working technical knowledge in one or more:

• Broadband and narrowband access technologies including (but not limited to) POTS, xDSL, T1, DS3, PRI, BRI, WiFi, WiMAX, PON, OCX.
• Transport technologies including (but not limited to) SONET, ATM, Ethernet, POS, DWDM, WDM.
• Voice Switching technologies including Legacy TDM and Softswitch technologies.
• TCP/IP technologies including (but not limited to) routing and routing protocols (e.g., OSPF, BGP, etc.), subnetting, multicast, tunneling, bridging, MPLS, IP quality of service, traffic engineering, VoIP and IPTV.
• Power Concepts associated with AC and DC power equipment and HVAC implementations in both cabinet and building applications.
• Customer premises equipment including (but not limited to) Routers, PBX, Handsets, set-top boxes, home wiring concepts.

Additional Skills:

• Experience reading OSP engineering staking sheets, permit packages that include right of way design colocation prints.
• Familiarity with field redlines and the closing of permits.
• Understanding of inspection duties from a construction perspective.
• Able to participate in a small group to work specific network issues.
• The ability to manage changing priorities and the ability to handle several simple network tasks concurrently with assistance required to help set priorities.
• Scope of responsibility limited to assignments from manager.
• Able to work with diverse individuals/teams/customers. Able to interact and work with others as part of a team. Understands the role s/he plays on the team, and how his/her work supports the team's goals.
• Able to take the lead to get well understood issues resolved. May require assistance for more difficult issues.
• Ability to work within a changing environment.
• Good organizational and written/verbal communication skills.
• Good presentation skills.
• Positive attitude and team focus are required.
• Requires software knowledge and skills in business and office applications, such as spreadsheets, database applications, word documents, network drawing tools, basic network applications (telnet, FTP Client, FTP Server) and basic Unix tools.
• The ability to make timely decisions.
• The ability to organize priorities to achieve maximum performance cost effectively.
• Basic mathematical and statistical analysis.

Other:

• Ability to travel as necessary if the needs of the business dictates.
• If the needs of the business dictate, perform network tasks outside normally scheduled business hours to complete project work, provide on-call support and/or implement scheduled network changes.

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what's listed on paper, but they can still lead to success. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!

Benefits

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well-being, and overall happiness. Join us and experience a work environment where your well-being is a top priority!

Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to:

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Associates working 30 or more hours per week additionally have access to:

• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• TDS Service Discounts
• Education Assistance
• Paid Volunteer Time

In addition to these benefits, all associates will have the opportunity to participate in our Associate Resource Groups, which are designed to encourage community and facilitate professional development. To learn more, click here.

Who is TDS Telecom?

TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Visit tdstelecom.com to learn more!


At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the difference of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

Pay Transparency

The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.

Pay Range (Hr./Yr.)

$70,500.00/Yr. - $114,500.00/Yr.