Telecommunications Technician (Assistant, Level I or Level II (La Crosse, WI)

TELECOMMUNICATION TECHINICAN (Assistant, Level I or II) Hourly wage rate is $32.26 to $55.72

- Living Radius Requirement for this position: ~30-minute reporting time to primary work location.

Dairyland Power Cooperative is seeking qualified candidates for a Telecommunications Technician position, with opportunities to join at the Assistant, Level I, or Level II depending on experience and qualifications. This role supports the operation, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Dairyland’s complex telecommunications infrastructure across a 45,000+ square mile service area. Telecommunications systems include fiber optics, microwave radio, SCADA, voice and data systems, and utility automation systems, ensuring reliable and efficient communication services.

Responsibilities will vary based on the position level, including:

- Assist with or independently perform the installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of telecommunications equipment such as:

- Fiber optics, network routers, switches, modems, and cabling

- Wireless access points, point-to-point radio, digital microwave systems

- Voice and data systems, SCADA, mobile radio systems, phone systems, generators, battery systems, chargers

- UHF/VHF transmitter/receiver systems, antennas, duplexers/combiners, mobile/base stations, portable radios, operator consoles

- Telephony systems (PABX, VoIP), cabling, termination, and testing

- Utility automation systems (SCADA, substation processors, RTUs, PLCs, Tele-Protection, DNP/Modbus protocols)

- Miscellaneous equipment (PA systems, video security systems).

Testing and Troubleshooting:

- Operate and maintain IP networks, AC/DC circuits, and other systems to ensure reliability.

- Follow testing procedures, document results, and proactively address technical issues.

Site Management and Documentation:

- Conduct preventative maintenance, building inspections, and equipment checks for tower lighting, standby generators, battery plants, and UPS systems.

- Maintain site logs and documentation in compliance with FCC and FAA regulations.

Safety and Team Collaboration:

- Follow and enforce Dairyland Power safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.

- Collaborate with telecommunications staff, employees, member cooperative personnel, vendors, and technical support teams.

Additional Responsibilities:

- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

- Report equipment inventory and status.

- Provide technical guidance and recommendations for process improvements.

- Perform other duties as assigned.

Your Experience and Expertise:

Candidates will be considered for the level that aligns with their qualifications and experience:

- Assistant Level:

- Associate degree or Vo-Tech diploma in electronics/communications-related field OR equivalent education/experience.

- Basic electronics principles and computer skills.

- Understanding of TCP/IP networking systems and protocols encouraged.

- Level I:

- Associate degree in communications-related field and 1–3 years of experience OR technical diploma and 4 years of related experience. Military or other communications experience may substitute for education.

- Proficiency in reading circuit diagrams, using electronic test equipment, and understanding telecommunications systems.

- Level II:

- Associate degree in communications-related field and at least 3 years of experience OR technical diploma and 4 years of related experience. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

- Advanced understanding of telecommunications systems, equipment, and protocols.

- Demonstrated ability to perform all foundational tasks from Level I.

Licenses & Certifications:

- Valid driver’s license required for all levels.

- FCC license preferred (encouraged for Assistant, preferred for Levels I and II).

Physical & Environmental Requirements:

- Lift and carry equipment and tools (up to 75 lbs).

- Perform physical activities such as climbing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, crawling, and bending.

- Access remote areas or uneven terrain while carrying test equipment.

- Work indoors and outdoors, including nighttime and extreme temperatures or hazardous conditions (noise, fumes, dust, chemicals, etc.).

- Work in electrical substations and generation plant facilities.

- Ability to differentiate colors.

Additional Requirements:

- Ability to respond to primary work location within ~30 minutes.

- Available for 24-hour on-call shifts and overtime as needed.

- Travel throughout Dairyland’s service area, including occasional overnight stays.