Communication Technician II

University of Chicago; Illinois; On-site; USD 54,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago IT Services (ITS) - Voice Operations is seeking a skilled technician to maintain and repair voice equipment across sites, providing Tier 1 and 2 support with on-call rotation. You will collaborate with voice engineers, inventory staff, and vendors to ensure reliable communications systems campus-wide.

The role requires strong troubleshooting abilities, comfort with on-call duties, and experience with Cisco Unified Communications Manager and related tools.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED; associates degree in electronics or related field preferred.
• Experience troubleshooting voice communications infrastructure including voice gateways and carrier circuits.
• Familiarity with Cisco UC technologies and ITSM platforms is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of voice equipment and systems.
• Provide Tier 1 and 2 support; participate in 24/7 on-call rotation.
• Document incidents and requests in ServiceNow with accurate histories.

Skills

Troubleshooting

On-call support

Team coordination

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associates degree in electronics or related field

Technical school graduate

Tools

Cisco Unified Communications Manager

Cisco Unity

Cisco UCCX

ServiceNow

Job description

Department OPS ITS - Voice Operations About the Department IT Services (ITS) collaborates with campus partners to support the mission of the University of Chicago through the consistent delivery of high-quality solutions and services. We provide secure, stable, and reliable infrastructure and applications that support the mission of the University. ITS supports and enables faculty research and teaching with the effective use of technology, simplifies the technology experience for all users, and identifies, manages, and mitigates technology risks for the University.

Job Summary

Under minimum supervision, this individual performs the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of communications voice equipment and systems for all sites administered and maintained by the University of Chicago and UChicago Medical Center under the general direction of the Voice Operations Technical Lead and the established reporting structure. Responsible for providing Tier 1 and 2 support and participating in a rotation of 24/7 support, (on call). This position will work on projects as requested by management.

Responsibilities

• Makes decisions outside of established procedures affecting the system's operation, if needed.
• Monitors, diagnoses and implements the repair of communications networks, equipment, and software in accordance with established procedures.
• Performs routine preventive system maintenance.
• Diagnoses carrier-related problems, including digital and analog circuits, and reports status and repairs needed.
• Reports issues and opens tickets with carrier services.
• Follows up to completion.
• Assists carriers with access to University of Chicago closets and equipment.
• Installs communications equipment to board level or as instructed.
• Functions as the on-site person to work with voice engineers, voice specialists, inventory staff, network team and vendors.
• Responds to customer questions and inquiries regarding features and functions of the communications system.
• Enters incident and request tickets in our ITSM tool, ServiceNow, and properly documents tickets to capture an accurate history of events with the relevant details.
• Maintains service activity documentation, which includes all maintenance activity performed on communications hardware and software as well as parts usage figures.
• Monitors inventory levels and alerts Inventory Coordinator when additional supplies and equipment is needed.
• Guides and assists new Communication Technicians in training, orientation and proficiency growth in the University’s voice systems and procedures.
• Provides coverage for all remote sites, such as Ingalls, Northwest Indiana, etc..
• Maintains work area in an orderly manner.
• Works on special projects as needed.

Competencies

• Interpret and analyze complex technical drawings, schematics, and documentation.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.
• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to document technical information and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong customer service skills to build and maintain effective working relationships with customers and colleagues.
• Strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills to manage multiple assignments and work independently.
• Work effectively in a multi-shift, multi-location environment.

Additional Responsibilities Education, Experience, or Certifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Associates degree in electronics or related field. Graduate of a technical school.
• Experience: Minimum three years of experience troubleshooting and resolving issues with voice communications infrastructure, including voice gateways, carrier circuits, and DMARC’s required. Background in academic and/or healthcare environments is preferred.
• Certifications and Licenses: I.B.E.W. Local 134 Communications Technicians in good standing with the union. Valid driver's license required. Familiar with Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Cisco Unity technologies to troubleshoot and resolve service issues preferred. Familiar with Cisco UCCX-related technologies, call center, including Finesse for troubleshooting agent issues is preferred.
• Technical Knowledge or Skills: Proficient in computer, spreadsheet, and database applications. Proficient in use of hand/power tools and test equipment. Demonstrated knowledge of digital and analog circuitry and data transmission technologies. Proficiency in using basic computer hardware, software, and communications test equipment, including transmission test sets, digital multimeters, tone/pulse linesman test sets, traceable tone-tone generators, tone tracers, remote maintenance terminals, time domain reflectometers (TDR), optical test equipment, and DS1/DS3 test equipment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and experience using ServiceNow or a comparable IT Service Management (ITSM) platform.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Primarily works in a standard office environment with regular use of computers and other office technology. May be required to work flexible business hours, including occasional after-hours support and participation in a limited on-call rotation. Remain in a stationary position,sitting or standing, for extended periods and move throughout office and campus locations as needed. Bend, crouch, or stoop when installing, inspecting, or servicing equipment. Perform repetitive hand, wrist, and finger movements associated with computer and technical equipment use. Effectively communicate and accurately perceive information through visual and auditory means, including reading technical documentation, distinguishing colors, and recognizing verbal communications and equipment signals. Lift, carry, push, or pull equipment and materials weighing up to 25 pounds.

Required Documents

Resume/CV Cover Letter References Contact Information (3) Union Card Copy

Benefit Eligibility

Yes

Pay Rate Type Hourly Pay Range $39.29

Scheduled Weekly Hours 40 Union 046- Local 134, I.B.E.W. Communications Tech Job is Exempt No Drug Test Required No Health Screen Required No Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required No Posting Date 2026-08-05 Posting Statement The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case‑case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

The University of Chicago is an urban research university that has driven new ways of thinking since 1890. Our commitment to free and open inquiry draws inspired scholars to our global campuses, where ideas are born that challenge and change the world. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of original ideas. Students in the College develop critical, analytic, and writing skills in our rigorous, interdisciplinary core curriculum. Through graduate programs, students test their ideas with UChicago scholars, and become the next generation of leaders in academia, industry, nonprofits, and government.

To learn more about the university click here http://www.uchicago.edu/