Lead Specialist, Telecom - National Grid

Primarily responsible for design, implementation, integration, andtroubleshooting support for telecommunications and data network systems involving electric transmission, distribution, metering and other grid technologies. Our team culture is self-directed and empowered. Team members work on a wide range of projects; taking innovative concepts and making them a reality. We are hiring a Telecom Specialist for projects in our NY jurisdiction.

Primary areas of responsibility include: evaluation of emerging technologies; participation in equipment specification and selection; performing end-to-end solution design including validation and testing of advanced communications systems. As a senior team member, you will be expected to guide and mentor other members of the department and lead in the development and execution of complex strategic programs and initiatives.

You will work closely with our Substation Engineering, Protection Engineering, Distribution Control & Instrumentation Engineering, Meter Engineering, and other departments to provide communications solutions for projects assigned to those groups. In addition, you will be responsible for the development of long-term strategies for telecom networks supporting substations, distribution system controls, meters and other fixed and mobile devices.

• Support the Capital Delivery Construction process involving new and existing substation projects.
• Support Company initiatives for innovation and modernization of our energy delivery infrastructure.
• Create and obtain approval for special projects, engineering design, analysis and investigations, and training to deploy new technologies and work practices.
• Support development and ongoing maintenance of all transmission and distribution communications technologies.
• Support Company Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI) initiatives in the NY jurisdiction including the design and deployment of Field Area Networks (FAN) and their monitoring and control systems.
• Actively engage our IT and external communications partners in the development of end to end communications solutions for substation SCADA, metering, Volt Var Optimization (VVO) and other active and future projects.
• Be part of the team that will upgrade our SONET fiber core network to a new system and expand the network to reach more substations and company facilities.
• Develop documentation and provide technical guidance, support and coaching to others in order to share knowledge and develop technical understanding within the department.
• Build and nurture relationships with industry peers and other external industry influencers to keep abreast of technical innovations and their potential benefits.
• Support storm restoration efforts in addition to normal job duties.

• Apply the principles of system engineering at the conception, design and operation phases of project-grade construction and any projects or groups of construction as the need arises.
• Work closely with engineers, system architects, other infrastructure consultants, and support staff to solve business problems that directly impact the products and services provided by telecom operations.
• Define and articulate the "big picture" long-term vision for the infrastructure, and develop short term plans to help achieve it.
• Provide input in the design/engineering of telecom solutions to maximize reliability and dependability while minimizing operational cost.
• Prepare punch lists, as built and work closeout documentation.
• Influence technical teams and assist as required to provide one-lines, prints, configurations, specifications, material requirements, and sourcing/selection of vendors.
• Work to both internal and external budget and schedule constraints, providing accurate and timely reporting.

• Actively builds and maintains a network of relationships, outside of normal business contacts.
• Effectively lead committees and/or teams.

• Bachelor's degree with at least 10 years of related experience in a number of technical roles. An associates degree is acceptable with an additional 2 years of relevant experience.
• Experience creating new ways to plan and operate communication systems using advanced analytics and emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Expertise in some or all of the following communications technologies:
  • RF data communication systems including point to point, point to multipoint and mesh topologies.
  • Private and public LTE networks
  • Fiber optic and microwave transport systems
  • Leased wired and wireless services
  • Computer network routing/switching, cloud services
• Demonstrated capability to independently develop and direct small teams with regard to project tasks and technical requirements.
• Solid understanding and use of financial terms along with budgeting principles and practices.
• Skilled in programming, configuration, testing, and troubleshooting communications hardware.
• Demonstrated strong influencing skills with the ability to make persuasive presentations to small and large audiences.
• Must be able to work overtime and/or holidays, nights, weekends as needed.
• Must be able to travel overnight outside the normal work area.