Telecom Technician

Public Service Co. of OK; United States; On-site; USD 54,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power is seeking a Telecom Technician B to perform intermediate to advanced installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of telecom equipment and infrastructure. You will work under supervision or independently, depending on task level, and ensure accurate documentation and compliance with safety rules.

The role covers reading schematics, operating test equipment, and cross-training teammates.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent 2-year technical degree in related field or military training/experience.
• Minimum 5 years of technical work experience beyond education requirement.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Install, test, document Telecom equipment and systems at intermediate to advanced level.
• Troubleshoot and test electronic and optical equipment and infrastructure.
• Maintain records, drawings, and data for work performed.
• Learn and mentor others in technical disciplines.
• Read and interpret electrical and telecom prints and diagrams.

Skills

Telecom testing

Documentation

Troubleshooting

Reading schematics

Safety compliance

Education

Associate degree or 2-year technical degree

Military training in related technology

High school diploma with 5 years related experience

Tools

SCADA systems

Fiber optic equipment

RF antenna systems

Job description

Job Summary

The Telecom Technician B will perform intermediate to advanced level installation, maintenance, repair or replacement, testing, and inspection of various Telecommunications equipment, systems, and infrastructure. This role will work to gain knowledge and understanding of various Telecommunications technologies, business processes, and business partner requirements; and work to gain knowledge of emerging technologies. Technician B will complete these tasks under general supervision or is qualified to work independently according to the task level and will adhere to standard practices and procedures.

Job Description

Essential Job Functions

• Perform intermediate to advanced level installation, acceptance testing, and documentation of various Telecommunications related equipment and systems.
• May assist in performing, or perform, higher level work for next-level training or as assigned.
• Perform intermediate to advanced level troubleshooting and system testing, maintenance, and repair of electronic and optical equipment, infrastructure, and systems.
• May assist in performing, or perform, higher level work for next-level training or as assigned.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, drawings, and other data required for all work performed.
• Utilize Telecom knowledge gained to assist and cross-train others in technical disciplines.
• Focus on learning and advancing beyond present levels of competency in multiple technologies or deeper in a specific technology.
• Inspect and maintain test equipment, tools, automotive equipment and safety/protective equipment in good working order and compliance.
• Demonstrate the ability to read, understand, and update electronic and electrical prints, diagrams, and asset records related to Telecom equipment and technologies.
• Demonstrate the ability to operate tools and other equipment necessary to perform job duties.
• Assist others as requested or assigned and provide training and guidance to employees in lower classifications.
• Perform all duties in accordance with the Company’s safety rules and operating regulations, NERC CIP and environmental compliance and practices.
• Respond to emergency callouts as required.
• Perform essential job functions and tasks as defined in lower-level job descriptions in the Telecom Technician Job Family and other duties as assigned.
• Successfully complete all assigned training.

The Technician B must achieve a working knowledge and demonstrate intermediate level technical support skills in two or more technologies, and/or advanced level skills in one or more of the following technology examples, as assigned by leader: Transmission and Distribution station data networks, SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition), distribution automation systems, smart grids, and telecom for other utility systems. Generation and Renewables facilities telecom voice and data systems. Transport systems, such as microwave radio, fiber optic, and other transport/wireless systems. Land Mobile Radio System: P25 site electronics and mobile radio installation, support and programming, and RF antenna systems. Fiber optic cables, fiber splicing, testing, and termination/connecting methods. AC/DC electrical power systems, including basic understanding of circuits and components of distribution and transmission stations and networks. Telecom wiring and cabling requirements, installation methods, and industry standard practices. Networking systems that include routers, switches, wireless access points, and related devices. Infrastructure support equipment and facilities such as DC chargers/rectifiers, batteries, UPS systems, generators, transfer panels, security and monitoring, HVAC, grounding and signal cabling, site access roads, site yards, fences and gates, shelters, towers, and antenna systems. Specialized support of centers such as transmission and distribution dispatch centers and control centers, customer call centers, data centers and other specialized locations.

Education Requirement

Associate degree, or equivalent 2-year technical degree, in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field; or military training/experience in related technology field; or High school diploma with a minimum 5 years of related work experience or industry knowledge. Must demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills as a qualifying Telecom Technician C and have a minimum of 5 years of technical work experience in addition to education requirement. For internal candidates (AEP Employees) Only: Must have a minimum of 2 years of satisfactory work experience, equivalent to, or as a Telecom Technician C (steps C2 and C1). Must have successfully completed all required training for the previous job level; and demonstrated/successfully tested the knowledge, skills, and capabilities required of an experienced Telecom Technician C. Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license. Exhibit AEP competencies are always expected of every employee.

A positive attitude, respectful behavior, and genuine support for teammates and leaders are necessary. A strong electronics / telecommunications aptitude is desired and essential to success.

Overnight travel and daily travel for work as required. Assist in adjusting resource demands as required. Be available for call-out and planned overtime as necessary to support our 24x7 operation. Demonstrate computer and application skills needed to perform assigned Telecom work and documentation. Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills. Physical demand level is Heavy, and may include lifting, carrying, and installing/removing heavy items up to 60 lbs. such as electronic and optical equipment, racks, test equipment, tools, cables and terminals, and other items required to support projects and operational activities at all job locations.

Compensation Data

Telecomms Technician A $53.33 Telecomms Technician B $48.53 Telecomms Technician C $42.45 - $46.79 Telecomms Technician I $39.39

Compensation Grade: Compensation Range: $39.39 - $53.33

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

At American Electric Power, we provide more than electricity to our millions of customers - we energize possibilities. We're redefining the future of energy by reducing our carbon footprint, empowering the communities we serve and building an engaged, talented workforce. All while delivering the reliable service our customers expect. It’s an exciting time in the energy industry. Are you ready to be part of it? We’re looking for team members to help create the grid of the future. Learn more about our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive work culture that values different experiences.