Rf Engineer

Agri-Valley Communications, Inc. (AVCI) is the parent company of Pigeon Telephone, Thumb Cellular, Agri-Valley Services and the AVS Tech Team. Headquartered in Pigeon, Michigan, the family-owned corporation is focused on providing communication and technology services to rural Michigan communities, including those in the Thumb and Northern regions of the state.

PURPOSE OF THIS POSITION:

Radio Engineering now requires proficiency of software skills for workplace competency. This role will be part of a RF – System Performance team that designs, deploys and operates radio networks. Part of this role will be to create methods and tools to assist the team for more effective deployment and trouble resolution. Operating radio networks produce a great volume of data. The data needs to be reduced and made meaningful to quickly resolve network troubles. Standardizing the deployment of radio software using version control, testing and establishing references for key network parameters are also part of this role. At times, information may need to be consolidated for presentation to executive and management staff to assist with radio network investment decision making.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Create methods and tools to assist the team for more effective deployment and trouble resolution.
• Optimizes performance of fixed and mobile networks by analyzing and ensuring KPI’s meet/exceed established standards.
• Studies, implements and audits LTE parameters.
• On occasion, operates RF propagation and mapping software to determine network coverage and to propose new sites or site modifications.
• Prepares and generates report information for site standard verification and approval.
• Updates cell site master documentation for new and existing sites.
• Shares propagation requests to assist in ensuring proposed equipment will meet the tower performance needs.
• Assists in the investigation and resolution of customer complaints and trouble tickets regarding service by examining performance metrics and data.
• Develops, updates and ensures software tools meet needs not provided by vendors.
• Certifies equipment and specifications within the Google SAS upon turning up a new CBRS sector, site or radio.
• Supports adding network equipment and performance monitoring for special events.
• Provide management with reporting and communications related to network performance.
• Performs on-call duties, including nights, weekends and holidays when assigned, to support the network during off hours.
• Performs job duties within Company health and safety requirements.
• Other duties as requested or required by management.

Travel Requirements: As Needed

Work Environment: This job operates in a professional office environment and working with field staff for education, implementation and testing may be necessary.

Work Schedule: Standard business work week schedule working Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with ability to work after hours as needed and flexible for all other shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays (24x7 operation). Ability to be on call as scheduled. Willing to work overtime and maintenance windows when needed.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package after 90 days. Th is includes but is not limited to extensive medical, vision, dental, retirement plans (after 1 year), paid time off and employee discounts on company services and employee perks.

• Bachelor’s degree with major(s) of: Computer Science, RF Engineering or related field required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• At least 3 years of relevant previous job experience required.
• Strong Linux and Linux type systems knowledge. As well as bash and other shell scripting (Linux systems), script automation using cron and other methods.
• Software version control using git and private repositories such as git lab.
• Strong understanding of programming languages such as Python, HTML/CSS, C++, Rust, PHP, Perl, and Linux Bash.
• Ability to connect hitch to trailer, transport and start portable generators when needed for power outages at cell site locations throughout the service area.
• Strong technical and problem-solving skills with a team-oriented attitude.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize and manage time effectively with strong attention to detail.
• Must be dependable, self-motivated, willing to learn as well as think and respond clearly in a fast-paced environment.
• Successfully complete pre-employment background screening.
• Solution oriented with the ability to provide permanent solutions.
• Continuous learner, excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to communicate to both technical and non-technical audiences, works well in a team environment, appreciates challenges, comfortable and effective working in new areas that require experimentation and rapid problem solving.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with the ability to travel as needed.