Telecom Engineering Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

WHY JOIN US?
Build your career with Ezee Fiber, proudly recognized by PCMag as the Best Overall ISP in the U.S. for 2026.
At Ezee Fiber, you'll do more than build a career; you'll help shape the future of connectivity. Every team member plays a vital role in delivering reliable, high-speed internet and exceptional customer experiences. Whether in the field, in the office, or behind the scenes, you'll be part of a collaborative team that values innovation, professional growth, and making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
OUR VALUES
At Ezee Fiber, our success is built on delivering Speed, Simplicity, and Service in everything we do. Guided by our core values of Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, and Collaboration, we empower our employees to do the right thing, support one another, take ownership of their work, and work together to deliver exceptional experiences for our customers and the communities we serve.
JOB SUMMARY
The Project Specialist, Permitting is a professional-level role responsible for independently managing permitting strategy and project coordination activities that directly impact the execution of fiber network deployment.
This role exercises discretion and independent judgment in evaluating permitting requirements, resolving jurisdictional challenges, prioritizing project timelines, and determining appropriate escalation paths.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Permitting Ownership & Accountability
• Assume full ownership of the permitting lifecycle, ensuring projects continue to progress regardless of obstacles or cross-functional dependencies
• Act as the single point of accountability for all permit-related activities, driving progress and resolution without deferring responsibility
• Proactively identify risks and develop solution-oriented action plans to prevent delays
• Remove barriers to execution by collaborating across engineering, construction, and external agencies
• Maintain end-to-end visibility across all active permits and ensure no gaps in tracking, communication, or follow-up
Vendor Management, Follow-Through & Urgency
• Provide active oversight and management of vendors, ensuring deliverables meet quality standards, timelines, and contractual expectations
• Demonstrate relentless follow-through, consistently tracking all open items and driving them to completion
• Establish and enforce clear expectations, deadlines, and accountability measures for vendors and stakeholders
• Maintain a high sense of urgency, ensuring time-sensitive permitting requirements are addressed proactively
• Monitor progress in real time, maintaining full situational awareness across all permits and project deliverables
• Escalate issues appropriately and hold vendors and partners accountable to commitments
Data, Reporting & Systems
• Maintain accurate permit logs, dashboards, and tracking systems with zero tolerance for incomplete or outdated information
• Analyze data to identify trends, risks, and performance gaps impacting project timelines
• Generate reporting that provides clear visibility into permitting status, risks, and progress
• Utilize systems such as 3GIS, Smartsheet, and ArcGIS/ESRI to support tracking and reporting
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
• Identify workflow inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and recurring issues impacting permitting and project execution
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes, reduce cycle times, and increase efficiency
• Recommend and implement enhancements to workflows, systems, and reporting tools
• Contribute to the development of scalable, standardized processes to support organizational growth
CORE COMPETENCIES
• Ownership & Accountability• Vendor & Stakeholder Accountability• Independent Judgment & Decision-Making• Problem Solving & Solution Orientation• Sense of Urgency & Execution Focus• Continuous Improvement Mindset• Operational Awareness & Prioritization
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience Requirements: Associate degree or higher in Engineering, Telecommunications, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred). Minimum 3-5 years of progressive experience in OSP permitting, telecom engineering coordination, or infrastructure project management.
• Strong understanding of telecom/FTTH design, permitting processes, and regulatory environments
• Ability to interpret technical documents, site plans, and jurisdictional requirements
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions without direct supervision
• Ability to evaluate multiple variables and determine best course of action aligned with business objectives
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause and resolution
• Ability to manage priorities in a dynamic environment and influence outcomes across teams
• Exercises authority to prioritize permitting strategy across multiple projects based on business needs
• Operates with minimal supervision, independently determining priorities and execution strategies
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Driver's License
PHYSICAL, FIELD, OR ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of the job, the associate is required daily to analyze and interpret data, communicate, and remain in a stationary position for significant periods. The associate must frequently access, input, and retrieve information from computers and other office systems. Occasional movement around the office and attendance at events or meetings may be required.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Minimal travel may be required for this position (up to 5% domestically).
TOTAL REWARDS
• Competitive compensation package
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and other generous benefit programs
• Tuition reimbursement
We are seeking candidates that are legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
COMPENSATION
USD $65,000.00 - USD $70,000.00 /Yr.