Communications Systems Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Salary Range: $30.77 - $35.58

Benefit Package: PLTO offers an excellent compensation and benefits package (Medical, Dental, 401(k) retirement, vacation, holiday and sick pay, etc.

General Description:

Under the supervision of the Communications Supervisor, the Communications Systems Technician performs skilled technical work in the installation, inspection, maintenance, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of communications infrastructure that supports PLTO’s light rail operations. This position ensures the reliability and availability of SCADA, radio systems, wireless networks, fiber networks, CCTV, fire alarms, Access Control Systems, passenger information systems, and related equipment essential to safe and uninterrupted service delivery. The Technician responds to routine and emergency service needs and supports system upgrades and improvements across the organization.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on communications equipment including SCADA, radio systems, wireless networks, fiber networks, CCTV, fire alarms, Access Control Systems, and passenger information systems.
• Install, test, troubleshoot, and repair communications cabling, fiber optics, network hardware, and field devices.
• Diagnose system faults and restore communications services during equipment failures or emergencies.
• Coordinate with the Operations Control Center, Signal, Power, and Maintenance of Way teams during incidents and planned maintenance activities.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and system documentation including configuration updates.
• Assist with system upgrades, expansions, and technology deployments.
• Support testing and commissioning of new communications equipment and infrastructure.
• Follow all safety procedures, regulatory requirements, and industry standards when working on communications systems.
• Participate in on call rotation and respond to emergency communications system failures as required.
• Cooperatively and efficiently perform related tasks and duties as required.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong technical ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain communications and electronic systems.
• Working knowledge of radio communications, fiber optics, IP networks, CCTV, and passenger information systems.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, wiring diagrams, and network documentation.
• Responds quickly and effectively to system failures in a safety critical environment.
• Works effectively with supervisors, peers, operations staff, and external vendors.
• Clearly communicates technical information to team members and other departments.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in field environments.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office, shop, and field environments, including rail right-of-way and elevated/underground structures.
• Exposure to noise, electrical equipment, weather, and other conditions associated with rail infrastructure.
• Requires availability for nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs.
• Physical requirements include climbing, lifting equipment up to 50 lbs., and working in confined spaces.

Additional/Miscellaneous/Special Requirements:

• Acceptable criminal history record check upon hire which must be maintained throughout employment.
• Acceptable drug screen results upon hire and as regularly required by policy for position.
• Acceptable driving record upon hire which must be maintained throughout employment.
• Must possess a valid Maryland driver’s license.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions including outdoors, inclement weather, noisy environments, and near moving mechanical systems.
• Ability to wear and correctly use required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Must be willing to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Must be able to respond to emergencies on a 24/7 basis.

Education and Experience:

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree in Electronics, Telecommunications, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent technical training/experience).
• 3+ years of experience working with communications or electronic systems.
• Working knowledge of radio communications, fiber optics, IP networks, CCTV, and/or PA systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in transit, rail, or other safety-critical industries.
• Familiarity with applicable FCC, FRA, or other regulatory requirements.
• Project management or vendor management experience.
• Industry certifications such as BICSI, CCNA, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent.