Wireless Network RF Engineer IV

• Responsible for the engineering design, capacity, configuration, and system performance of the GSM, UMTS/HSPA, LTE and 5G Radio Networks.
• Apply engineering principles to design and optimize network coverage, performance, and capacity. 
• Remotely support field staff in troubleshooting, by implementing applicable network configuration changes during daytime or maintenance windows.
• Perform cell site dimensioning and configuration evaluation based on vendor offering.
• Participate in developing internal processes used for radio network design that meet regulatory and zoning compliance.
• Analyze RAN network data to identify performance issues, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Diagnose and resolve RAN network faults, perform routine maintenance tasks, and manage network upgrades.
• Oversee/manage capacity requirement of the RAN network.
• Identify causes of RF interference and troubleshooting.
• Provide input to management regarding tactical and strategic issues.
• Functions as developer and resource for planning and performance tools as needed.

• ACCOUNTABILITY- Takes ownership for actions, decisions, and results; openly accepts feedback and demonstrates a willingness to improve.
  • Ability to accurately communicate information virtually (i.e., Teams), over the phone, and in-person in a clear and concise manner to a range of audiences.
  • Ability to accurately read, write, and respond to business correspondence such as emails, chat messages, policies, procedures, reports.
  • Proficient technical writing and documentation skills. 
  • Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and work under pressure meeting deadlines. 
  • Knowledge of basic RF propagation principles, cellular theory, RF engineering tools and antenna theory.
  • Knowledge of GSM/UMTS/LTE/5G technologies and 3GPP specifications.
  • Knowledge of RF propagation/prediction tools such as Mentum Planet and/or Atoll.
  • Knowledge of drive test validation tools such as TEMS Discovery/Investigation.
• BASIC PRINCIPLES - Interacts with people in a way that builds mutual trust, confidence, and respect; adheres to GCI’s Code of Conduct for Employees – the Basic Principles.
• COLLABORATION - Works effectively with others to accomplish common goals and objectives; maintains positive relationships even under difficult circumstances.
• COMMUNICATION- Conveys thoughts and expresses ideas appropriately and professionally.
• COMPLIANCE - Follows internal controls; protects confidential information; abides by GCI’s Code of Business Conduct & Ethics.
• CUSTOMER FOCUS - Demonstrates commitment to service excellence; gives high priority to customer satisfaction.
• RELIABILITY - Consistently follows through on assigned tasks as expected; demonstrates timely attendance at meetings, training, and other work obligations.
• RESULTS - Uses a combination of job knowledge, initiative, sound decision making, innovation, adaptability, and problem solving.
• SAFETY & SECURITY - Supports a safe work environment by following all workplace safety rules and guidelines; complies with applicable Security policies and procedures.
• TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY - Proficient computer skills and MS Office knowledge (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel) to complete job duties effectively, such as using the company intranet and to accurately retrieve and input information into database or equivalent.
• Well-developed computer skills (UNIX, Oracle Database, Excel macros and SQL programming

Additional Job Requirements:

This is a senior level position within the discipline functioning in a lead role as the subject matter expert (SME). Demonstrates advanced knowledge and proficiency in all areas of responsibility with strong knowledge of other Engineering disciplines. Performs highly complex and unique tasks and job duties, receiving minimal to no instruction on routine work and new assignments. Makes technical decisions independently on significant engineering problems and functions as Project Engineer for major, complex projects. Works under minimal supervision with wide latitude for independent judgment.

Essential Duties:

Additional Competencies:

• Ability to perform highly complex and diverse design, plans, analysis, and implementation of networks with minimal oversight.
• Ability to do in-depth analysis of new features and technologies related to wireless RAN. 
• Ability to make independent engineering decisions and provide technical direction and resolutions. 
• Capable of directing, assisting, mentoring, and providing technical direction to junior engineers and supporting technicians. 
• Familiarity with FCC regulations with respect to emission requirements and limits such as the FCC OET Bulletin 65
• Advanced knowledge of software tools such as Atoll and Mentum Planet, MapInfo, ASCOM TEMS Investigation/Discovery, Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent computer skills (UNIX, Oracle Database, Excel macros and SQL programming preferred).
• Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Superior technical writing/documentation skills. 
• Excellent organization and presentation skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and interface with customers, subcontractors, vendors, technicians, and other team personnel.
• Expert level knowledge of RF wireless technologies such as 5G, LTE, UMTS/HSPA, GSM/GPRS/EDGE, and CDMA/EVDO.
• Advanced knowledge of Ericsson OSS, ENM, EPP ENIQ STATS and ENIQ EVENTS
• Expert level knowledge of Ericsson GSM/UMTS/LTE/5G platforms, product lines, and their associated 3GPP specifications.
• Expert level knowledge of RF optimal design concepts such as cell site selection and the optimal planning of frequencies, PSCs, PCI, RRSP, BCCH et al.
• Advanced level understanding of RF propagation principles, cellular theory, and antenna theory.

Minimum Qualifications: 

Required: *A combination of relevant work experience and/or education sufficient to perform the duties of the job may substitute to meet the total years required on a year-for-year basis

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Telecommunications, or related field. *
• Minimum of ten (10) years of professional RF engineering experience in wireless telecommunications systems with increasing levels of responsibility in wireless, troubleshooting, optimizing, and designing wireless communications sites. *

Preferred: 

• Professional Engineer (PE) license. 
• IEEE, WCET and/or CCNA Wireless certifications.
• Telecommunications experience. 
• Other relevant telecom industry or job specific certifications.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS: 

• This position may require access to reliable transportation for occasional travel between retail store locations, offices, worksites, or other locations as needed.

• Available and willing to work additional time on weekends, holidays, before or after normal work hours as required by business and customer needs.
• Available and willing to work extended hours without notice in order to resolve service impacting issues.
• Some work conducted at remote company and customer facilities. 
• Occasional travel to remote sites within Alaska and travel to lower 48 locations required.
• Some outside work required in typical Alaska temperature and weather extremes.
• Ability to work in dark, damp, cramped spaces, at heights, and tolerate fumes and odors, dust, and low light conditions. 
• Work is primarily sedentary, requiring daily routine computer usage.
• Ability to work shifts as assigned, work in standard office/home office setting, and operate standard office equipment.
• Ability to accurately communicate information and ideas to others effectively.
• Physical agility and effort sufficient to perform job duties safely and effectively.
• Ability to make valid judgments and decisions. 
• Must work well in a team environment and be able to work with a diverse group of people and customers.
• Virtual workers must comply with remote work policies and agreements.
• Work includes working inside and outside.
• Subject to adverse weather and driving conditions.
• Work performed below overhead construction and in trenches to 10 feet in depth.
• Tasks performed around high-power electrical conductors and gas lines.