05/12/2010 01170

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST 1

DEFINITION: This is technical work in the development and modification of voice and data telecommunications systems.

An employee in this class performs a variety of technical duties in the management of Commonwealth voice and data telecommunications activities that include system design and configuration. Work involves planning, developing, reviewing, evaluating, and implementing voice and data telecommunications systems, equipment, facilities, and services in Commonwealth agencies; developing proposals for new or expanded systems; and preparing design criteria and design concepts for the purchase or lease of related equipment. Work involves contact with user group representatives and equipment and service vendors to coordinate voice and data telecommunications activities of governmental organizations, telephone companies, contractors, consultants, lessors, and others providing services and equipment to the Commonwealth. Work is reviewed by an administrative or technical superior for adherence to established standards and for results obtained.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Participates in the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the operation and modernization of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Recommends revisions to existing policies and procedures.

Participates in or reviews for acceptability new or expanded voice and data telecommunications systems applications, studies, design concepts, requests for proposals, specifications, plans and drawings, vendor bid lists, letters of intent, contracts, and other related documents and items.

Prepares requests for equipment for existing systems applications.

Evaluates the need for equipment for existing systems applications and recommends approval.

Provides technical advice and assistance on voice and data telecommunications matters.

Recommends and assists in negotiations for consolidation and sharing of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Prepares guidelines and standards relating to voice and data telecommunications systems. Participates in or conducts surveys of voice and data telecommunications activities to evaluate cost effectiveness of equipment, systems, services, and methods being used.

Participates in the evaluation of bids/proposals and selection of telecommunications vendors for contract award.

Monitors contractor performance during installation.

Participates in acceptance tests of new or modified voice and data telecommunications systems.

Prepares or participates in the preparation of agency and telecommunications planning documents.

Develops manuals and conducts training on agency telecommunications activities, processes, and equipment operations.

Prepares technical and administrative reports.

Conducts and/or participates in preliminary cost and other surveys for proposed systems, equipment, or services.

Performs related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of telecommunications systems planning, development, design, and compatibility.

Knowledge of Federal and state regulatory agencies, laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to voice and data telecommunications.

Knowledge of the methods and techniques involved in the design, installation, operation, testing, and maintenance of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Ability to perform analysis of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Ability to interpret and analyze systems plans, proposals, and specifications for feasibility and cost effectiveness.

Ability to prepare detailed designs, proposals, and cost estimates for various kinds of voice and data telecommunications systems.

Ability to conduct or review literature searches on current and new voice and data telecommunications technologies.

Ability to perform user site testing.

Ability to identify problem areas of voice and data telecommunications systems and to determine corrective measures.

Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Ability to operate data entry equipment.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various governmental agencies, vendors, contractors, lessors, and citizens' groups.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of technical experience providing microcomputer support services that included information technology or telecommunications hardware and software installation, operation, and maintenance within a network environment, and an associate's degree in Microcomputer or Telecommunications Technology or other closely related field;

                                                                                                                                            or

Three years of technical experience providing microcomputer support services that included information technology or telecommunications hardware and software installation, operation, and maintenance within a network environment;

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Three years of voice or data telecommunications experience that included one year of system design or configuration experience and two years of general telecommunications experience that involved: technical management of systems for commercial or governmental applications or technical work in the acquisition, installation, repair, or maintenance of commercial or governmental systems.

Post high school training in telecommunications technology; data communications; or electronics with emphasis in telecommunications technology may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for the general telecommunications experience, but may not be substituted for the required experience in system design or configuration.