Wireless Communications Systems Technician 3 (In-Training)

About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation! The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a motivated and skilled Wireless Communications Systems Technician (In-Training) to join our team in Union Gap, WA. In this role, you'll play a vital part in keeping our South Central Region connected by supporting the network infrastructure behind our Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices and office locations. This position is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of wireless telecommunications equipment and supporting networks across a wide service area, including Yakima, Kittitas, Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, Columbia, Garfield, Asotin, and neighboring counties. You'll work both in the field and behind the scenes, responding to emergency repairs, assisting fellow technicians with installations and troubleshooting, and partnering with wireless telecommunications engineers to support the overall performance of critical systems. If you enjoy hands-on technical work, problem-solving in dynamic environments, and contributing to the safe and efficient operation of Washington's transportation network, this is a great opportunity to grow your career while making a meaningful impact. What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, Wireless Communication Systems Technician will: Development, operation, maintenance, installation, and repair of Internet Protocol (IP) based ethernet network and support equipment. Install, configure, manage, maintain, and repair digital IP-based microwave systems and support equipment, including Nokia, Cambium/Ceragon, Radwin, Exalt, Solectek, and MOS brand systems operating at licensed and unlicensed frequencies. Manage and maintain Ethernet switches and routers, including Etherwan and Cisco, using a PC laptop, network analyzers, digital voltmeters, power meter, frequency counter/generators, and other troubleshooting equipment. Install, configure, manage, maintain, and repair digital fiber optic networking systems connected to the microwave and ITS network using fiber optic test equipment. Develop, manage, and maintain an inventory of IP lists and network programming parameters using spreadsheets and other software. Install, configure, and maintain IP cameras for roadside surveillance and security systems. Install, configure, manage, design, maintain and repair PTP and PMTP wireless 4.9 Ghz radio systems Perform emergency field repairs independently and as part of a technician team. Qualifications This is a Wireless Communications Systems Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required :

Electronics & Communications Systems Expertise:

Demonstrates applied competency maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing complex electronic communications systems, including two-way RF, microwave carrier, and IP-based network systems.

Technical Documentation Interpretation:

Skills and experience to accurately interpret and apply technical manuals, schematics, drawings, and specifications to diagnose issues, perform installations, and complete repairs.

Foundational Technical Readiness:

Ability to apply foundational knowledge and problem-solving skills to technical and operational communications environments.

Independent Field Operations:

Experience independently installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing sophisticated communications equipment with professionalism and reliability. Physical ability to perform all required field work tasks. Ability to work safely and effectively in extreme or adverse weather conditions.

Engineering Principles & Policy Application:

Experience applying electrical, electronic, and wireless engineering principles along with applicable laws, regulations, and agency policies to ensure compliant and effective system operations.

Antenna & Transmission Infrastructure Maintenance:

Skilled at safely installing, maintaining, and servicing antennas, transmission lines, and waveguides, including work performed at heights of up to 300 feet.

Mission-Critical Radio & Network Systems Support:

Skills to operate, maintain, and repair

P25 700/800

MHz trunked radio, microwave carrier, and data network systems supporting critical communications.

Remote Site Access & Specialized Equipment Operation:

Ability to safely access and services remote communications sites using specialized vehicles and equipment in varied terrain and weather conditions.

Diagnostic & Test Equipment Proficiency:

Skills and ability to use electronic test and diagnostic tools (e.g., oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, TDRs, service monitors, multimeters, network analyzers) to evaluate performance and isolate faults.

Computer & Technology Utilization:

Ability to proficiently utilize computer systems, mobile devices, GPS, and related technologies to support technical operations, documentation, and communication.

Effective Communication Skills :

Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors, coworkers, and customers through effective verbal and written communication.

Licensure and Certification:

General Radiotelephone Operator Licensed issued by the FCC, or ability to obtain within the first six (6) months of employment, Ability to pass and maintain compliance with a Washington State Patrol criminal background check, Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to drive a state vehicle at the time of hire.

Growth Mindset:

Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented:

Takes action to meet the needs of others. It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Advanced Networking & Radio Systems Knowledge:

Demonstrates additional technical knowledge obtained through formal education and/or professional experience in Ethernet networking, radio propagation, advanced data networking, or L3Harris Land Mobile Radio systems. Important Notes This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position. To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting. In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements . Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. This is a Wireless Communications Systems Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are: Wireless Communications Systems Technician 2: $78,912

• $96,144 Wireless Communications Systems Technician 3: $87,048
• $106,104 WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Why WSDOT Work-Life Balance
• We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity. Paid Leave
• In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year! Tuition Assistance
• Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness. Plan For Your Future
• WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options.

Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How to Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date. An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role. Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed. Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Wireless Communications Systems Technician 3 #05276 in the subject line.