Entry Level Communications Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The Data Communications Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting of telecommunications and low-/medium-voltage systems in commercial and industrial environments. This includes structured cabling, fiber optic systems, telecommunications equipment, network infrastructure, and related components. Work is performed in accordance with project specifications, blueprints, wiring diagrams, applicable codes, and company safety standards.

Essential Duties

• Install, terminate, label, test, and troubleshoot copper and fiber optic cabling systems.
• Install telecommunications equipment, pathways, racks, cabinets, cable tray, and support systems.
• Read, interpret, and utilize blueprints, schematics, network diagrams, layouts, specifications, and other project documentation to perform assigned work.
• Perform cable testing and certification using industry-standard testing equipment.
• Troubleshoot and repair telecommunications cabling, equipment, and related systems.
• Complete testing, certification, and commissioning activities and document results in accordance with project and customer requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of installations, testing results, project changes, and material inventory.
• Maintain compliance with applicable codes, customer specifications, and company safety requirements.
• Assist in training and mentoring apprentices and entry-level technicians.
• Communicate effectively with project managers, customers, and all internal and external business contacts regarding project status and technical issues.
• Accurately distinguish and identify color-coded conductors, cables, wiring, and related components in accordance with applicable codes, industry standards, and safety requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Use and operate hand tools, power tools, testing equipment, cable testers, splicing equipment, and other specialized telecommunications installation tools to perform assigned work safely and effectively.
• Promote and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with OSHA, company and customer safety regulations.
• Verify system performance, testing results, and installation quality to ensure compliance with project specifications, applicable codes, and safety requirements.
• Represent the company in a positive and professional manner. Maintain a professional appearance and comply with company dress, grooming, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

The physical demands and working conditions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Perform physically demanding work requiring manual dexterity, including lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds; frequent bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, climbing, and working in awkward positions; and prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking.
• Work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments, including confined spaces, elevated locations, noisy or dusty conditions, and exposure to varying temperatures and weather conditions.
• Safely work from ladders, scaffolding, aerial lifts, and other elevated work platforms as required.
• Regularly use hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, testing instruments, and technology devices requiring fine motor skills.
• Maintain visual acuity sufficient to read technical documents, blueprints, schematics, labels, and electronic displays, as well as distinguish wire colors and identify small components.
• Travel to job sites and customer locations, including overnight stays, as required.

Job Qualifications

• Valid driver's license required.
• Experience with cable pulling, terminations, labeling, and testing of CAT5e/CAT6 and fiber optic cables.
• Proficient working with IP networks, VLANs, switches, and routers.
  

• Familiarity with VoIP, IP-based systems, and related network protocols.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, technical diagrams, and project specifications.
• Working knowledge of electrical and medium-voltage installation methods, tools, materials, and industry practices.
• Ability to maintain accurate service records, as-built diagrams, and project documentation.
• Ability to comprehend and apply job-related instructions and materials in English, with or without reasonable accommodation or through an approved translation method, as required for safe and effective job performance. Basic proficiency in reading, writing, and arithmetic is required.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with customers, coworkers, and other stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve data communications issues, prioritize work, exercise sound judgment, and make informed decisions independently.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and the ability to consistently comply with OSHA regulations, electrical safety standards, company safety policies, and industry best practices.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of three years of hands-on experience installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting commercial or industrial telecommunications systems, including related peripheral equipment such as network infrastructure, optical fiber, on-site controllers, data modems, and terminals. Proficiency in the tools, materials, methods and practices of the data communications and electrical trade required.
• BICSI Installer certification or equivalent preferred. BICSI Technician (TECH) certification preferred.
• Fiber optic, structured cabling, and/or CFOS/D certifications are a plus.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, flexible spending plan, 401(k) plus matching, paid time off, paid holidays, paid bereavement, company apparel allowance.  Relocation will not be provided for this position.

River Cities Engineering is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, and genetic information. We are also an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.