Communications Technician

Union Local

IBEW 1049

Summary

The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) and PSEG-Long Island (PSEG-LI) operate a private radio network for two-way voice communications in support of Transmission & Distribution (T&D) field operations and the Distribution Automation data communications network. The dispatching headquarters are located in four regional offices located in Hewlett, Hicksville, Brentwood and Riverhead, New York. Each regional headquarters communicate through base stations in its region to its field crews. The Distribution Automation System provides automatic sectionalizing of distribution feeders. This infrastructure is comprised of 2700 ASU/ACR/MLBS/PMH/ATO/ASUV/CAP BANK switches that provide SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) to the regional control rooms.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Works independently or with another Technician to perform the highest technical work associated with repair, test, maintenance and installation of complex communication and electronic equipment including two-way radio, microwave, satellite, wireless cell site.
• Performs all necessary tests and adjustments and submits written reports and test data sheets. Investigates and corrects audio, radio, video and microwave interference complaints and follows up with such complaints. Technician is responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of Company owned communications system, Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) devices, SEL controllers and data control systems.
• Performs all types of work on communications equipment and other electronic equipment involving solid-state integrated circuit and computer technologies.
• Must have a good working knowledge of basic principles of solid-state electronics and apply this knowledge by working with electronic and electrical diagrams and sketches in the installation of communications equipment.
• Having a good working knowledge of high speed (4800/9600/19200 baud and higher) digital data transmission principles, distributed network protocol, internet protocol networking, P25 trunking radio standard, fiber optic principles and servicing techniques on all types of communications channels.
• Must have a valid FCC General Radio Telephone Operators license and current knowledge of FCC rules, regulations and practices as pertaining to federally licensed systems used by the Company. Also, recommends the purchase of materials and equipment and the establishment of spare parts requirements.
• Operates company motor vehicles and/or equipment necessary to perform job duties. Performs other comparable duties, as well as, coordinates activities with other departments or sections.
• Ability to troubleshoot Console Dispatch equipment and vehicle mobile communication devices. Must be able to use computers to program radio equipment, upgrade the required firmware and capable of database entry is required.
• Technician will maintain the Radio communications infrastructure of the Distribution Automation SCADA System, which includes installing and repairing Pole Top Remote Terminal Units, Antenna alignments, Communications testing, and Interference analysis.
• Must be able to perform the duties outlined above in shop or outside field conditions from a ladder or aerial lift device. Must be able to work in aerial lift device as required to maintain or install communications equipment.

Years of Experience

Job Qualifications

Desired Skills: (Knowledge and Experience Required)
Knowledge of:

• Performs arithmetic or algebraic and geometric procedures in standard practical applications.
• Radio Frequency Theory.
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other federal, state and local broadcasting regulations.
• Radio technical operations.
• Basic computer networking and infrastructure.
• Broad understanding of electrical, mechanical, and telephone systems.
• Current and developing trends in radio broadcast equipment and transmission systems.

Experience in:

• Reading and comprehending technical and operational manuals and instructions, safety rules, policies and procedures, and instruction manuals.
• Reading and interpreting blueprints and schematics drawings.
• Interpersonal Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of vendors, contractors, and colleagues in a diverse community.

Requirement (Knowledge and Experience Required):

• Two year college degree in Electronics Engineering, Electrical Technology, or Engineering is required or honorable discharge with an ET (Electronics Technician rate) from the Military.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in radio operations, computer systems, information technology, or telecommunications or an equivalent technical field.
• APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS A VALID FCC GENERAL RADIO TELEPHONE OPERATOR LICENSE prior to commencing employment at PSEG Long Island. However, applicants can submit the job application and obtain the FCC license in parallel to the hiring selection process.
• A valid US drivers license, successfully completion of a Company driving test.
• A written entrance exam on basic electric principles and exam on physical working skills is also required as part of the requirements for acceptance into this position.

NOTE:
Applicants must submit a copy of their college transcript/military transcript.
In addition to possessing the qualifications for this vacancy, employees selected will be expected to work overtime in accordance with departmental requirements and to participate in the Companys Emergency Restoration Program.

Education

Licenses or Certifications

• Valid NYS driver’s license
• Valid FCC General Radio Telephone Operators License

Training and Courses