ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS

The successful candidate will live and work in New York State, with frequent day travel to Watertown and other areas within our service region.

Job Summary: The Assistant Director of Telecommunications will provide assistance to the Director of Telecommunications in the support of the overall operation and management of the Open Access Telecom Network. The Assistant Director will be responsible for managing assigned capital projects and Authority initiatives, and assisting the Director of Telecommunications in the preparation of annual budgets, five-year capital plans and operating revenue and expense projections. Some of the major functions include monitoring and reporting on key performance indicators, assistance with network carrier relations and business development, maintaining regulatory affairs, developing and updating standard operating processes and procedures, developing and reporting on financial performance of the division and implementing process improvements to streamline operating efficiencies.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Supports the management of operational, financial, and human resources required to operate for the efficient operations of the division.
• Manages assigned capital improvement projects and Authority initiatives.
• Reviews design documents to ensure compliance with industry regulatory requirements and Authority customer agreements.
• Develops projects to ensure the sustainability of network operations.
• Procures and oversee assigned contracts for professional and operational services.
• Interacts with state, county and local agencies and officials to pursue projects that further the Authority’s and County partners’ priorities to expand broadband in the Authority’s three-county primary service area.
• Develops and implements standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the delivery and sustainability of business operations.
• Assists the Director with budget preparation, and other fiscal and administrative division duties.
• Updates and develops key planning documents to include the Telecommunications Asset Management Plan and Telecommunications Business Plan.
• Negotiates cooperative agreements with other telecommunication companies, including local governments, private institutions, and other partners to renew and develop central office agreements.
• Ensures compliance with all Authority governance policies.
• Monitors Key Performance Indicators, prepares business reports and presents data in open forums, to include board meetings.
• Develops and implements operational procedures.
• Ensures all safety and environmental requirements are completed on schedule, and develop and implement corrective actions identified from environmental excursions or permit violations, and/or safety and health inspections.
• Performs related duties to support the overall operations and objective of the Authority.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities):

• Experience in operations, including project management, financial analysis, and strategic planning, while leading complex initiatives to optimize processes and maintain environmental standards.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and other relevant software. Knowledge of/familiarity with GIS/GPS, Computerized Maintenance Management System software, and Fiber Management Software (3-GIS).
• Working knowledge of construction means and methods, and design standards for telecommunications networks.
• Familiarity with grant writing and grant administration.
• Knowledge of OSHA’s General and Construction Industry Standards (29 CFR 1910 and CFR 1926), with a strong understanding of workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Strong ability to manage, prioritize, and adapt to a dynamic workload, balancing organizational objectives, scheduling demands, and the needs of both employees and customers.
• Proven ability to collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders to build productive relationships and maintain high levels of service.
• Skilled in customer service and conflict resolution, with the ability to address concerns professionally and maintain positive engagement.
• Analytical problem-solver with the ability to evaluate complex issues and implement effective, data-driven solutions.
• Experienced in developing and executing strategic plans for long-term, multi-phase projects that improve regional service and internal efficiency.
• Consistently exercises sound judgment and professionalism in high-responsibility environment.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field required;
• Master’s degree in Business Administration preferred.

Professional Certification/Licenses:

• None required.

Experience:

• Seven years of engineering and project management experience.
• Construction project management and permitting process experience, public sector development projects preferred.
• Experience working with local government customer relations and expertise in municipal infrastructure financing programs and municipal finance law.
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be acceptable.

Pre-employment Physical Exam and Drug Test Required: Yes

Annual Physical Exam Required: No

Minimum Driver’s License: Class D NYS regular operator.

Travel Requirements: Frequent day travel in service area, some overnight travel.

Typical Work Schedule: Regularly works Monday through Friday during normal business hours and requires willingness to work a flexible schedule when needed.

Telecommuting Eligibility: Position is eligible for Telecommuting pursuant to Authority Telecommuting Policy.

Benefits: The Authority offers a competitive compensation package to include participation in the NYS Employees’ Retirement System (PENSION), NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, 12-paid holidays, 3-weeks vacation, 10-sick days, 2-personal days; medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurances. Plus, we offer tuition reimbursement and professional development.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

The Development Authority of the North Country is an Equal Opportunity Employer.