Central Office Translation Specialist

About Us: Blackfoot Communications reliably connects business of all sizes across the nation using the latest telecommunication technology in voice, network, and managed services. With focus on strong connections, we also provide dedicated account management with a goal to get to know our clients so we can help advise on the best solution.

What We Offer:We offer opportunities in the telecommunications and technology sectors with positions in Western Montana and Eastern Idaho. Blackfoot is proud to offer a competitive salary and a fantastic benefits package that includes; comprehensive medical benefits plan, LTD, life insurance, an outstanding retirement pension plan plus a 401k plan that includes employer match, along with other employer paid benefits. We are proud to have received awards and recognition that highlight our strong company culture. These include "Employer of Choice" from the Missoula Job Service Employer's Council, "Top Tech Employer" from the Montana High Tech Business Alliance, and the "Heart Award" from the United Way of Missoula County in recognition of our ongoing community efforts.

Job Summary: This position is responsible for complex translations and programming of the service network including voice switches, voice mail systems and other adjunct services platforms. Installation, provisioning and testing of Ethernet circuits to customer sites. Also works on the installation and maintenance of switching, access, transmission equipment, IP based service platforms, and all other types of Central Office equipment.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Installation, provisioning, and testing of Ethernet circuits, and other IP telecommunications equipment commonly used within the industry. Strong networking and IP background needed.
• Installation and maintenance of all aspects of a Softswitch network including translations for complex services such as Centrex, call routing and IP based advanced telephony services. Also does all levels of translations for the voice mail systems, transmission systems, and carrier systems.
• Install and maintain Central Office, power equipment, motor generators, batteries, T1s, DS3, Digital Cross Connects, Fiber/DWDM/CWDM Multiplexers, IP Broadband Loop Carriers, Sonet equipment.
• Assist data network/IT employees including move, install, repair and/or removal of data communications equipment; Perform preventative maintenance on data and communications equipment as needed; basic troubleshooting and maintenance of data equipment as needed.
• Keep maintenance log records up to date as required, showing date and detail of work performed. Responsible with other Central Office Technicians for cleanliness and general appearance of all switch and transmission buildings. Be available for trouble call-out on 24-hour basis. Coordinate availability with other technicians.

Additional Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required to fulfill job function or as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Company policies, procedures, products and services.
• Telecommunications industry and digital switching technology, preferably MetaSwitch
• Data networking components.
• Central Office equipment.
• Protocols like SIP and MGCP
• Industry regulations.
• Time management and organizational skills.

Skill to:

• Install, repair and maintain Central Office switching equipment.
• Use mechanical and electrical power tools.
• Operate various office equipment such as a computer, copy machine, fax machine and multi-line telephone.

Ability to:

• Work independently.
• Work in on-call situations.
• Think analytically and be a problem solver.
• Communicate effectively, both in writing and in speaking, with customers, co-workers, and various business contacts in a courteous and professional manner.
• Work completely and accurately under time constraints and deadlines.
• Obtain and maintain a valid Montana driver’s license, have a good driving record and be insured under the Company insurance policy.
• Read, analyze, and interpret reports.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Work in a safe and effective manner.

Education and Experience:

Any combination equivalent to the following education and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities would qualify. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities would be:

Associate’s degree in electronics technology; 5 years of practical hands-on experience in maintaining, repairing or installing switching systems, preferably MetaSwitch, and fiber multiplex systems, 2 years working with data networks in a support, provisioning, or design capacity. Experience with Calix B6 & E7, Actelis, FTTH, Accedian NID’s or similar equipment is preferred.

Any noted minimum or maximum years of experience should not be construed as a requirement for consideration; this information is meant to be used as a suggested guideline.