GCI's Wireless Switch Engineer I is responsible for hardware commissioning, expansion, and augmentation of the wireless core network elements.  Support cellular core related system integration activities to ensure that the network is deployed and operates effectively.  Support operational groups in monitoring of network statistics and performance, along with studies and analysis of systems.  Recommend improvements to the overall network design to architecture contributors.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT ALL LEVELS: Design and implement all the core node database entries including SS7, Diameter and other signaling design as well as call and messaging routing and translations within the core.  Provide troubleshooting and fault resolution of switch and supporting equipment. Study traffic to determine optimal system configurations and apply full basic principles, theories, and concepts to job assignments.  Exhibit technical and operational proficiency with solving problems and contribute to completion of projects and programs.  Interface with internal and external customers and provide guidance, technical leadership, and engineering expertise to assist clients with the deployment of core wireless services.  Design and architect the network to meet user and mission critical requirements.  Perform software and licensing verification, feature testing and implementation of hardware expansions and support operations with software upgrades. Support operations in management of network performance of all wireless core nodes. Prepare integration and test plans, assist in implementation and acceptance testing for integration of nodes, upgrade existing equipment and coordinate implementation of new nodes into the existing network. Lead in the deployment of all wireless technologies, including GSM, UMTS, LTE, CDMA, EVDO, IMS, VoWiFi, VoLTE, SMS, future 5G and all other wireless core services. Support other system integration activities to ensure that the network is deployed and operates effectively.  Mentor junior engineers/operations and stay current with developing technology. Self-directed and motivated. Creative and innovative problem solver. 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. Ability to effectively identify, report, and resolve technical problems, schedule changes, and cost increases. Ability to work on multiple assignments with changing priorities.  Ability to logically reason and solve technical problems with minimal daily supervision. Knowledge of software and hardware installation, integration, operation, and routing and translations within the wireless switches and other core network elements (Routing and Translations in Ericsson, Nortel and Star-Solutions MSC Nodes). Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience with Visio, MS-Project, Adobe Acrobat, Vender Element Managers.

 

COMPETENCIES: ACCOUNTABILITY - Takes ownership for actions, decisions, and results; openly accepts feedback and demonstrates a willingness to improve. 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. 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.

 

Level Definition

Position Title: Wireless Switch Engineer I

Grade: E05

 

Additional Job Requirements:

This is an entry level position within the engineering discipline. Must be competent at performing basic engineering designs and calculations for further review by senior staff. Under guidance, performs software verification, feature testing, and implementation of hardware and software upgrades. Receives general instructions on routine work and detailed instructions on new assignments. Work is closely supervised and reviewed for timeliness, accuracy, and following correct procedures.

 

Essential Duties: 

Assist in planning and implementation of platform expansions and producing call routing, data translations / data transcript changes.  Subject Matter Expert (SME) on fault management and restoral events and interface with the infrastructure equipment vendor on operational issues. Provide Tier III support for assigned voice platforms and associated network elements (MSC, BSC, RNC, MME, HSS/HLR-FE & CUDB, EPG, vEPC’s, SGSN, IMS-CSCF/MTAS/MGCF and other core network elements). Work with more senior engineers to meet established compliance and commitments with network Service Level Agreements (SLA’s).  Monitor network performance statistics / KPIs and act to correct and improve network performance. Participate in preparation of plans for integration of new nodes into the existing network. Develop and establish processes & procedures, mentor and train new engineering team members. Perform software and hardware upgrades and be available on-call 24x7 for system outages or scheduled work. Analyze and troubleshoot network service outages and congestion.  Act as “Situation Manager” during network outages, leading recovery efforts.

 

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 one (1) year of experience in a relevant field. *

 

Preferred: 

Telecommunications experience.   Relevant telecom industry or job specific certifications. 

 

Required at ALL Levels

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS: 

This position requires driving a company-owned vehicle, company provided vehicle, or a personal vehicle on behalf of the company. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, a satisfactory driving record, and successfully complete Defensive Driving course.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and WORKING CONDITIONS:   Some travel to remote sites throughout Alaska and to L48 States may be expected. 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.  Ability to work flexible schedules as required by business/customer needs.  Available to work additional time on weekends, holidays, before or after normal work hours when necessary.  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.

 

The company and its subsidiaries operate in a 24/7 environment providing critical services to Alaskans and may need to respond to public health and safety matters or other business emergencies. Due to business needs employees may be contacted outside of the core business hours to respond to the immediate emergency. As such, you will be requested to provide emergency after hours contact numbers, to include your home and cell phone numbers if you have those services. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: At GCI, we foster a culture of inclusivity by nurturing an environment where the varied perspectives of our employees, customers, and fellow Alaskans are celebrated. We add value to our community as we grow and empower a diverse workforce that provides equitable opportunity for every Trailblazer. EEO: GCI is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other status or classification protected under applicable state or federal law.  DISCLAIMER:  The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. All employees of GCI work in support of the GCI Mission Statement and Declaration of Principles which are located on the GCI Career page and Employee portal.