ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer Jobs in Arkansas

CYNET SYSTEMS

Project Manager I

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$72/hr

... structural engineers. * Ensure all telecom facility designs meet physical security requirements, environmental/hazard mitigation standards, and compatibility with existing utility infrastructure.

All JobsTelecom Structural Engineer JobsFreelance Telecom Structural Engineer JobsFreelance Telecom Structural Engineer Jobs in Arkansas

Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer information

What is the difference between Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer vs Telecom Project Engineer?

AspectFreelance Telecom Structural EngineerTelecom Project Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in structural or telecom engineeringEngineering degree, project management certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndependent, contract-based, on-site or remoteCompany-employed, on-site or office-based
Industry UsageDesign and analyze telecom structures, often freelance or consultingManage telecom projects, coordinate teams and resources

Freelance Telecom Structural Engineers focus on designing and analyzing telecom infrastructure structures independently, often working on a contract basis. Telecom Project Engineers oversee entire projects, managing teams and resources within a company. While both roles require engineering credentials, the freelance engineer emphasizes structural design, whereas the project engineer handles project execution and management.

What does a Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer do?

A Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer specializes in designing, analyzing, and evaluating the structural integrity of telecommunications infrastructure, such as cell towers, rooftop antennas, and supporting frameworks. They ensure that these structures meet safety codes, industry standards, and client requirements while accommodating new equipment or modifications. Working on a freelance basis, they handle project-based work for telecom companies, tower owners, or engineering firms, offering flexibility and expertise for both new builds and upgrades.

What are some common challenges freelance telecom structural engineers face when managing multiple projects for different clients?

Freelance telecom structural engineers often juggle projects with varying scopes, timelines, and client expectations, which can lead to challenges in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines. Coordinating with diverse teams—such as architects, construction crews, and telecom equipment vendors—requires strong communication and organizational skills. Additionally, freelancers must stay current with changing industry standards and local regulations for each project location. Effectively managing documentation, invoicing, and client relations is also crucial for maintaining a successful freelance practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically with a relevant degree and professional licensure (such as PE or SE). Proficiency in structural analysis software (like STAAD.Pro or SAP2000), AutoCAD, and familiarity with telecom industry standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills for successful project delivery and client interactions. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective telecom infrastructure that meets client and regulatory requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas? For Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer job openings:
Freelance Telecom Structural Engineer jobs near you

Project Manager I

CYNET SYSTEMS

Little Rock, AR • On-site

$72/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Overview:

Responsibilities:
  • Plan and engineer outside plant fiber optic networks to connect substations, generation facilities, control centers, and other utility sites.
  • Design both aerial fiber (including Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) on transmission lines and All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) cables on distribution poles) and underground fiber routes.
  • Develop route maps, specify fiber optic cables and hardware, create splicing and termination plans, and ensure network redundancy and resiliency to support mission-critical services (SCADA, protective relaying, corporate communications).
  • Oversee permitting and rights-of-way for fiber installations and ensure designs meet National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) clearances and Client standards for attachment on utility infrastructure.
  • Microwave Radio System Engineering: Design and optimize point-to-point microwave radio links to connect remote sites and reinforce the fiber network.
  • Perform path surveys and line-of-sight analyses, determine appropriate tower locations and heights, select antennas and frequencies, and develop link budgets to ensure reliable, high-capacity communications.
  • Coordinate with frequency management and regulatory compliance (e.g., FCC licensing and interference studies) for microwave systems.
  • Prepare specifications for microwave radios, waveguides, and antennas consistent with Client’s requirements and industry standards (e.g., Telcordia).
  • Telecom Site & Facility Design: Plan the placement and design of telecommunications facilities at electric utility locations (substations, power plants, control centers, etc.).
  • Design and/or specify the installation of telecom support structures such as communications towers, poles, and antenna mounts, as well as prefabricated communication shelters, cabinets, or control house upgrades to house telecom equipment.
  • Address associated civil and site work – including site layout, grading, access roads, cable trenching or conduit installation, and equipment foundations – in collaboration with civil and structural engineers.
  • Ensure all telecom facility designs meet physical security requirements, environmental/hazard mitigation standards, and compatibility with existing utility infrastructure.
  • Power & Backup Systems Integration: Incorporate reliable power solutions into telecom designs to guarantee continuous operation of critical communications during power outages.
  • Specify and coordinate AC power feeds, DC power plants and battery backup systems, and appropriately sized standby generators for telecom sites such as repeater huts, microwave relay sites, and substation telecom rooms.
  • Ensure proper grounding, surge protection, and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Client’s electrical standards when integrating generators and backup power equipment at communications facilities.
  • Project Planning and Execution Support: Contribute to project lifecycle activities from initial scoping through commissioning.
  • Develop project scopes and cost estimates for new telecom infrastructure projects (fiber expansions, microwave link deployments, network upgrades).
  • Create and deliver detailed engineering design packages (incl. construction drawings, fiber splice diagrams, equipment layouts, wiring diagrams, and bill-of-materials) for use by field construction crews and contractors.
  • Utilize Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and GIS mapping tools (e.g., ESRI ArcGIS or GE Smallworld) to produce route maps, floorplans, and site diagrams. Plan implementation schedules and participate in Client’s change management processes – coordinating network cutovers, scheduling necessary outage clearances, and preparing method-of-procedure documents to minimize impact on energy delivery and operations.
  • Must have:
  • Fiber Outside design and build experience Experience with: Cisco, Nokia and Scinea Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics/Telecommunications Engineering, or a related field.
  • Equivalent work experience combined with relevant technical training/certifications will be considered.
  • Demonstrated experience in telecommunications engineering, with a strong focus on outside plant fiber optic network design and/or microwave system engineering.
  • A track record of several years in telecom OSP engineering or network design in a utility or similar industry is expected for this contractor role.
  • Technical Proficiency in Telecom Systems: Extensive knowledge of fiber optic communication systems (including fiber cable types, splicing techniques, connectors, and outside plant construction practices for aerial and underground installations).
  • Proficiency in microwave radio system design and RF engineering principles (path loss calculations, antenna propagation, frequency coordination).
  • Familiarity with packet-based transport networks (such as MPLS or Carrier Ethernet) and traditional time-division multiplexing (TDM) systems (e.g., SONET/SDH, DCS, channel banks) used in utility telecommunications.
  • Solid understanding of IP networking fundamentals and how telecom transport networks interface with IP-based systems.
  • Tools & Software Skills: Proficient in using engineering and mapping tools common to telecom and utility design
  • This includes experience with GIS software (such as ESRI ArcGIS or GE Smallworld) for route planning and asset tracking, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools (e.g., AutoCAD or MicroStation) to develop construction drawings.
  • Experience using telecom network inventory and database tools, especially ConnectMaster or similar Operational Support Systems (OSS), to document network elements and manage telecom assets, fiber routes, and circuit records.
  • Comfortable with productivity and documentation software (Microsoft Office suite, Visio) and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams).
  • Knowledge of Standards & Regulations: Working knowledge of relevant industry standards and codes for telecom and utility installations.
  • Must be familiar with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) guidelines for line construction and structure clearances, and basic National Electrical Code (NEC) principles for facility electrical systems.
  • Awareness of telecommunications standards (such as Telcordia/Bellcore standards, IEEE communications standards, and other industry best practices) is expected.
  • Ability to design solutions that comply with safety regulations, utility policies, and any applicable regulatory standards (e.g., NERC reliability standards) governing communications in electric power systems.

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet Systems Inc. is a leading staffing and recruiting powerhouse. Proudly recognized as a nationally and locally certified diversity firm, Cynet delivers agile, scalable talent solutions across industries. With an active footprint in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, we support thousands of consultants through our expansive, high-performing recruitment engine operating across North America and Asia—ensuring speed, quality, and consistency in every hire.
Cynet Systems logo

About Cynet Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cynet Systems Inc is a staffing and recruiting corporation nestled in Ashburn, VA, USA. Established in 2010, the company operates within the Information Technology and Services sector, specializing in providing effective workforce solutions to different business needs, including IT consulting, direct hire, and contract staffing services. Through the years, Cynet Systems has built an impressive portfolio, going beyond borders and expanding its operations internationally in Canada and India. Rooted in its core values of teamwork, leadership, and commitment, Cynet Systems helps businesses unlock their full potential by providing versatile and competent professionals that perfectly align with their needs. Fueled by their unwavering mission to deliver top-tier talent to businesses worldwide, Cynet Systems garnered various recognitions including SIA's fastest-growing staffing firms and Best Place to Work in Virginia for 2019.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US

Year founded

2010

Social media

Twitter

View All Cynet Systems Jobs