Communication Systems Design Specialist - Operational Technology Networks

As part of the Communications Engineering team, core responsibilities include the architecture, engineering, design, implementation, operation, maintenance, regulatory compliance, and ongoing reliability of RF communication systems, leased line services, circuits, and field communications supporting infrastructure - including DC power systems, generator backup power, and environmental support systems for various telecom technology platforms. In coordination with other departmental teams, the Communication Systems Design Specialists provide technical support to various deployment projects of Field Area Network devices and assist in the ongoing maintenance and operations of in-service assets. The group maintains network & communications documentation in the Company’s document management platform, provides support for managing the portfolio of communications requests, and is responsible for mapping of network transport assets in the Geographic Information System (GIS).

Delivers high-performance, high-availability, and cost-effective solutions to manage ongoing costs while meeting the technical and business requirements.

• Participates in installations and upgrades of communications technologies to ensure computing and network architecture solutions are properly implemented.
• Supports the operational performance and maintenance of existing network circuits as well as design and delivery of new products/product enhancements.
• Ensures technical standards, procedures, and regulatory requirements are properly implemented on assigned projects.
• Maintains scope, schedule, and budget for assigned projects.
• Takes ownership of assigned work and coordinates with internal and external groups on project delivery.
• Maintains functional knowledge of technology, technology changes, and the relationships of technology to emerging business requirements.
• Administrative and technical writing skills through proficient use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Adobe Acrobat, and other document production techniques are required.
• AutoCAD and drafting skills are not required but may provide enhanced interactions with drafting personnel.
• Advanced Level responsibilities include authoring, editing, and managing departmental process guidance in the form of formal policies, standards, procedures, guidelines, drawings, and other deliverables., * Participates on the Communications Engineering team supporting the many technology platforms delivering voice, video, and computing services to FE employees, contractors, and business partners.
• Ensures high level of reliability and availability of these systems.
• As part of the IT Network Engineering department, works across FirstEnergy to ensure that communications systems meet business needs and objectives.
• Ensures that change management procedures are followed properly.
• Demonstrates stewardship, knowledge and proficiency in assigned process guidance document creation and management.

• Bachelor or Associate degree in Networking, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Telecommunications or related field, or related work experience.

PREFERRED PRIOR KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

Basic knowledge of common test equipment (e.g., DMMs, antenna analyzers, spectrum analyzers and RF wattmeters).

Providing network circuit design, platform administration, and support.

Circuit ordering/provisioning of leased services / circuits (e.g., 2/4 wire circuits, T1s, frame relay, DS3s, leased MPLS, MBLs, PRIs, SIP circuits, etc.).

In-building cellular phone signal booster and network extender technology.

Environmental support systems for the technology platforms (e.g., HVAC, AC/DC power systems, batteries, generators, etc.)

Circuit inventory management and telecommunications expense management systems.

Core competencies include interpersonal, communications (written & verbal), presentation, and drafting/drawing (Visio/CAD/GIS) skills.

Proficiency in document creation and editing using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Adobe Acrobat, and other software tools with emphasis on technical writing, tables/spreadsheets, diagrams, and communicating engineering concepts.

Circuit design and drawing management tools.

Tools used to monitor, control & track the performance of these circuits, and manage the work.

Project management concepts and tools.

Telephony systems (e.g., PBX, key systems, console systems, ACD, etc.).

Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA); Remote Terminal Units (RTUs).

FirstEnergy at a Glance

We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers’ lives brighter, the environment better and our communities stronger.

FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, FirstEnergy includes one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, and a regulated generating fleet with a total capacity of more than 3,500 megawatts.