Network And Telecom Technician

Job Summary

Ensure timely scheduled, clearly communicated, high quality installation, maintenance, and operation/performance of the College’s network and telecommunications systems. Responsible for installing, maintaining, and servicing a variety of network and telephone equipment, installing voice and data communication circuits, security cameras, wireless access points, door access, and cabling. Responsible for organizing and completing the technical day-to-day operations assigned through work orders and servicing trouble calls.

This is a 2-year, limited term position.

Take appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Essential Functions

Network Technician

Install, move, repair, and modify networking and telecommunications related equipment according to job order specifications, standards, and procedures. Repair voice and data equipment, determine cable, wire and equipment needs for services requested. Install circuits, cross-connects, equipment, etc., Test and verify proper operation of installed circuits and/or equipment, confirm they meet the customer’s expectations. Complete work order processes, ensure network documentation is updated, facilitate and handle interactions with off-campus telecommunications vendors. Work with data network staff on troubleshooting and resolving voice and data network problems.

Support and Development of Smith Infrastructure

Own shared responsibility for the cable plant by working with other network and telecommunications technicians. Handle required changes in cable pair assignments, coordinate cable maintenance and installation crews on locating and correctly identifying cable plant elements for construction, maintenance, and repairs. Examine and verify all completed work and documentation for accuracy of cable assignments. Record and update all inside and outside cable plant documentation.

Maintain and recommend inventory and stock of cable plant supplies, equipment and tools.

Collaboration and Consultation

Support networking and telecommunications by providing cable plant consultation on telephone and data communications services and projects. Assist with identifying, obtaining, and maintaining adequate spare and reserve capacity of network resources.

Develop and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.

Other Functions

Miscellaneous

Remain current with telecommunications industry standards and principles through regular review and study of technical journals, periodicals, and textbooks. Obtain training on troubleshooting and installation policies, practices, and procedures. Attend vendor and other industry training courses and seminars.

Help to assure the overall success of networking and telecommunications by performing all other duties as assigned.

All employees are expected to participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Minimum Qualifications (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)

A high school diploma or the equivalent is required, plus four years of experience with either the installation or management of a large and sophisticated network/telecom cable plant, or an Associate’s degree or college courses equivalent to an Associate’s degree with an emphasis in Telecommunications or Electronics, with two years of related work experience. An in-depth knowledge of installation and maintenance of network and telecommunications equipment as well as inside cable plant design and installation. Has a working knowledge of IP data networking operation and troubleshooting.

Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

Certification for the installation of Category 6 UTP cabling is preferred.

Skills

Communication system analysis, troubleshooting, and repairs skills are required. Knowledge of the theories and techniques involved in the implementation and maintenance of private and public telecommunications networks and telecommunications equipment operation and use is required. The ability to use and operate a personal computer, basic cable tester, and other tools and equipment used in the installation, maintenance, and operation of telecommunications systems is required. Effective oral and written communication and interpersonal skills are required. The ability to interact with all levels of management and co-workers is required. Must be familiar with twisted pair, and coax installation methods and color coding conventions. Experience in fiber optics installation, troubleshooting, repair, test, and fabrication of single-mode and multi-mode ST, SC, FC/PC type fiber optic connectors, plus various LAN components is required. The ability to demonstrate initiative and solve technical problems independently and as part of a team are required. The ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently, prioritizing and accurately completing them on time in a potentially stressful environment is required.

The position requires climbing ladders, lifting materials, working in tunnels, manholes, ceilings, etc. and regular use of small hand tools and test equipment. Must be able to work in noisy switch rooms, hot, moist, and dirty tunnels and manholes, and environments that are cold, windy, and undesirable for long-term exposure. The position requires work in various locations, such as construction areas, labs, etc., and in close quarters in tunnels and cross connect rooms. Regular sustained mental concentration and considerable physical effort is required. A high degree of fine finger and hand dexterity is required.

Additional Information

All successful ITS staff are known for effectively applied expertise, thoughtful attention to detail, timely
and appropriately calibrated follow-up, proactive and constructive problem-solving, openness to new
approaches, and for building effective partnerships and trust within ITS, across the College and (where
relevant) with external partners.

Review of applications will begin

Compensation Grade:

Position Type:

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

Smith College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or veteran status in the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of any of its programs and activities, as specified by all applicable laws and regulations. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.