Field Service Technician-Network Specialist

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

As a Field Service Technician – Network Specialist, you will have overall responsibility for maintaining a highly reliable network of systems including central office switches, carrier and transmission equipment, fiber electronics, business communication systems, and other auxiliary equipment. This position involves installation and maintenance of network infrastructure and circuits, digital switch devices, cross‑connects, and telecommunication products such as Key Systems, PBX, Centrex Systems, and other business systems. Services include Telephony, Video/CATV/DBS, Internet, and high‑speed networks. Direct, face‑to‑face customer contact is expected, with a focus on proactive sales of TDS services and products, providing superior customer service, identifying needs, and offering communication solutions.

Due to in‑field support and on‑call requirements, the selected individual must reside within a 60‑minute driving distance from the New London, MN warehouse located at 7901 Chapin Dr NE – New London, MN 56273.

Responsibilities:

• Install, troubleshoot, test, splice, repair, and maintain telephone equipment and general network equipment, customer premise equipment, video/CATV/DBS, fiber optic/copper facilities, and other TDS products for new and existing customers.
• Configure, maintain, and repair PBX, Key Systems, Centrex Systems, business systems, fiber terminals, POTS, ISDN, DSL, T‑1s, and/or DS3s.
• Identify and repair defective cables, locate buried or aerial cable, perform pole climbing and operate construction equipment, and mark underground facilities to prevent damage.
• Install, troubleshoot, test, repair, and maintain central office equipment including switches, operating software, backups, voicemail, and fiber optic terminals.
• Update manuals and provide functional support when needed.
• Provide advanced troubleshooting support, respond to dispatches, and assist in enhancing record systems such as cross‑connects, line groups, and network elements.
• Deliver excellent customer service, proactively educate and sell TDS products and services.
• Manage project installations for systems and other tasks as requested by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• 2+ years of technical telecommunications experience, or current/past military service with an honorable discharge.
• 1+ year of basic fiber optic and/or copper cable splicing, repair, or installation, and/or switch training.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Adherence to TDS attendance guidelines to meet business and customer needs.

Other Qualifications:

• Successful completion of customer‑specific requirements, including background checks.
• Availability for on‑call/standby responsibilities, occasional travel, and willingness to work overtime and swing shifts as needed.
• Completion of all components of the Safety Course curriculum upon hire.
• Ability to maintain DOT requirements for operating vehicles with a combined GVRW of >10,000 lbs.
• Strong knowledge of telecommunications products and services, including structured wiring, fiber optics, PBX, centrex, and related systems.
• Proficiency with computer applications such as databases, trouble/repair/dispatch systems, plant record systems, MS Office, and CD‑ROMs.
• Independent decision‑making with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated customer service, sales, and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Organizational ability and multitasking skills.
• Physical requirements may include operation of heavy machinery, lifting, climbing, and travel.
• Ability to operate vehicles with manual transmissions.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Regular sitting, standing, writing, and computer keyboard use.
• Frequent movement, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs routinely and up to 100 lbs occasionally.
• Vision requirements: close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision.
• Work may be outdoors, in mechanical or equipment rooms, and in extreme weather conditions.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts and heavy equipment is possible.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Associates working 30 or more hours per week additionally receive:

• Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability
• TDS Service Discounts
• Education Assistance
• Paid Volunteer Time

All associates may participate in Associate Resource Groups for community and professional development.

Equal Employment Opportunity: TDS Telecom is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and values the differences in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

Pay Transparency: The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role‑specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation such as bonuses or equity awards. Pay Range (Hr./Yr.) $27.62 / Hr. – $41.42 / Hr.