Radio Communication System Technician (7632)

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA); Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 56,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare Coverage

Retirement Plan

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

SEPTA Transportation Pass

Job summary

SEPTA is seeking a Communications Systems Technician A to maintain and optimize critical transit communications networks across vehicles, control centers, and remote sites. You will diagnose, repair, and calibrate radios, base stations, and data systems while ensuring reliable operations in a dynamic public transit environment.

The role requires hands-on experience with RF systems, networked equipment, and field servicing.

Qualifications

• Ability to read schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical prints.
• Proficiency with diagnostic/test equipment (2+ years).
• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.
• Hands-on experience inspecting, testing, and repairing communications equipment and data systems.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, repair, test, and maintain a wide range of communications systems and equipment (radios, dispatch, fiber/wireless, CCTV, telephony).
• Troubleshoot issues across complex networks; perform preventive maintenance and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Install and configure network infrastructure and field equipment; support upgrades and new technology."
• Provide technical guidance to other technicians; perform testing and calibration; contribute to system design and optimization.
• Maintain system documentation, generate reports, and collaborate with teams to resolve issues.

Skills

Schematics reading

Diagnostics

Driver's license

Radio systems

Team collaboration

Education

Technical training or equivalent

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Spectrum analyzers

Fiber optic equipment

Job description

Secure Your Future with SEPTA – A Leader in Transportation!

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region.

We Are Proud To Be Recognized As
2023 FORBES Best in State Employer
Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024

In this position, you will keep vital communication systems running at peak performance as a Communications Systems Technician, where you’ll play a critical role in maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing the complex networks that power public safety and transit operations. From radios and fiber optics to advanced dispatch and data systems, you’ll work hands‑on with cutting‑edge technology to ensure seamless connectivity across vehicles, control centers, and remote sites. If you’re a skilled problem solver who thrives in dynamic environments and takes pride in supporting mission‑critical infrastructure, this is your opportunity to make a real impact every day.

We are seeking candidates for the position of Communication System Technician A (#7632) in the EM&C MOW/Communications and Signals. We are looking for technicians with experience in maintaining radio frequency systems. The starting rate of pay for this position is $40.97/hour, with a scheduled raise to $45.52, after six months of employment.

Overall Description

Under the general Supervision of the Communications Maintenance Manager, diagnoses, repairs and/or directs repairs of communications equipment including but not limited to, telephone cables, cable carrier systems, baseband systems, mobile and portable radios, base stations, telephone and radio logging equipment, audio/visual systems and computer aided dispatch radio system. Provides systems’ operational administration.

Specific Responsibilities

• Responsible for diagnosing, repairing, testing, and maintaining a wide range of communications systems and equipment, including radios, dispatch systems, fiber and wireless networks, CCTV, and telephony systems.
• Troubleshoots issues across complex communication networks, performs preventive maintenance, and ensures systems operate within technical and regulatory standards.
• Installs and configures network infrastructure, components, and field equipment across facilities and transit vehicles, while also supporting system upgrades and new technology evaluations.
• Provides technical guidance to other technicians, performs detailed testing and calibration, and contributes to system design, component repair, and performance optimization.
• Maintains system documentation, generates reports, and collaborates with internal teams and external partners to resolve communication issues and ensure reliable operations.

Qualifications And Experience

• Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical prints
• Proficiency in using diagnostic and test equipment (typically gained through at least 2 years of technical training or equivalent experience)
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or equivalent required
• Hands‑on experience inspecting, testing, and repairing communications equipment and data systems
• Successful completion of the Communications Systems Technician test
• Ability to learn and apply knowledge of agency communication systems and operations
• Basic understanding of agency vehicles as they relate to communications and data systems
• Knowledge of departmental policies, procedures, reports, records, and documentation requirements

Equipment Used

• System/Network/Analyzer, frequency selective voltmeters, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, fiber optic level/power meter, fiber optic laser test source, T1/DS1, Bit-error-rate tester, distortion analyzers, battery analyzers, desktop and laptop computers, printers and interface devices, and built-in‑test equipment; various meters such as volt‑ohm (VOM), digital volt (DVM), RF volt, frequency, deviation, integrated circuit tests, dummy antennas/loads, signal generators, power supplies, transistor testers; soldering iron, circuit punch down tool and hand tools pertinent to the occupation; power tools such as electric drill, power hammer, grinder and saws; Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other safety equipment prescribed by the Authority.

Physical

• Sitting 20%; standing, climbing and moving about 80%. Lifts 50 or more pounds. Carries tools and equipment up and down stairs.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to elements during field repairs. Exposure to bus exhaust fumes and accumulated dust in isolated locations. Operates communications service vehicle. Works in close proximity to high voltage. Walks on catwalks and roofs. Climbs ladders, towers, scaffolds and stairs. Works in cramped positions. Works in close proximity to moving trains, busses, trolleys and maintenance vehicles. Works in low light environments and tunnels. Exposure to RF radiation in frequencies up to 12GHz. May be subject to call 24/7 and during storms and emergencies.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
• Work‑Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
• Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well‑being.
• Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
• Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
• Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!

SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.