Apprentice/ Journeyman Systems Technician – Communications

Applications will be accepted through November 12, 2026 - Apply on-line at www.wfec.com

*At the option of the hiring official, this position could be filled as a Journeyman Systems Technician or as an Apprentice Systems Technician - Communication based on experience, knowledge, education, and abilities for the position.

SUMMARY - JOURNEYMAN SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATION: Under the direct supervision of the Systems Technicians Communications Supervisor, the Journeyman Systems Technician - Communications supports the electrical, electronic, and communications systems utilized to properly control, protect, and maintain the transmission system. Journeyman Systems Technicians - Communications specialize in the following areas but are required to support work in other areas as needed. These areas include, but are not limited to installing, configuring, operating, and maintaining various types of information transport equipment such as digital microwave radios, multiplexing devices, routers, carrier and wavetraps, switches, fiber optics, two-way radios, wiring voice and data circuits and all associated hardware. Duties include utilizing SCADA and other computer/software-based means to gather system information.

SUMMARY - APPRENTICE SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATION: Under the direct supervision of the Systems Technicians Communications Supervisor, the Apprentice Systems Technician - Communications Level I-V participates in the apprentice training program and supports the electrical, electronic, and communications systems utilized to properly control, protect, and maintain the transmission system. Systems Technicians - Communications specialize in the following areas but are required to support work in other areas as needed. These areas include, but are not limited to installing, configuring, operating, and maintaining various types of information transport equipment such as digital microwave radios, multiplexing devices, routers, switches, carrier and wavetraps, two-way radios, fiber optic, wiring voice and data circuits and all associated hardware. Duties include utilizing SCADA and other computer/software-based means to gather system information. The Systems Technician - Communications apprentice training program requires a minimum of five years to complete if begun at the entry level. It includes extensive on-the-job training, formal training, online training, and written study, some of which must be completed outside of work hours. Satisfactory performance and continuous progress toward completion of the program is required for continuous step progressions. Apprentices must develop sound, effective and safe work habits.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - JOURNEYMAN SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATIONS include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Performs the duties of a Journeyman Systems Technician-Communications which include proficiency in the following areas:

1. Installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance of various types of information transport equipment such as digital microwave radios, multiplexing devices, routers, switches, carrier and wavetraps, two-way radios, fiber optics, wiring voice and data circuits and all associated hardware.
2. Utilizing SCADA and other computer/software-based means to gather system information.
3. Resolution of communications system problem requests from system Operations, Engineering, and Transmission & Distribution Services personnel in an efficient and timely manner.
4. Using various test equipment such as time division analyzer, frequency counter, O-scope, and spectrum analyzer to monitor and maintain communication systems to an optimum operating condition.
5. Maintaining a working knowledge of the following: TDM (time division multiplexing), T1 circuits used in voice and data transport, backhaul circuits, Ethernet used for data backhaul transport.
6. Installing computer hardware and software as well as configuring/provisioning software driven components.
7. Testing, recording, and documenting any changes made to communication systems and insuring NERC compliance.
8. Applying technical knowledge of electronics, communications, and networking principles to solve problems utilizing diagrams, schematics, engineering data, and test equipment.
9. Supporting system protection functions by performing system protection related duties as needed.
10. Conducting commission testing of new or existing switch stations or substations and documenting all testing completed to ensure system reliability, and NERC compliance where applicable.

Maintains tools, equipment, and work environment in a safe, clean, and orderly condition. Follows all safety procedures to ensure personal safety and the safety of others. Complies with all OSHA and WFEC safety rules, policies and procedures. Participates in training to maintain current knowledge and skills needed to perform job duties. Trains other personnel in the use of specifically assigned equipment as required. Supports all Systems Technicians by performing duties in the other specialty area as required. Documents work for any NERC compliance requirements that may apply. Coordinates with Transmission Operators on clearances and switching orders to ensure safe operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - APPRENTICE SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATIONS Include the following, other duties may be assigned. Successfully completes the Systems Technician - Communications apprentice training program including formal training, on-the-job training, outside education, and written study, some of which must be completed outside of work hours. Maintains tools, equipment, and work environment in a safe, clean, and orderly condition. Follows all safety procedures to ensure personal safety and the safety of others. Learns to perform and performs at a level appropriate to training, the duties of a Systems Technician with emphasis on communications, which include proficiency in the following track:

1. Installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance of various types of information transport equipment such as digital microwave radios, multiplexing devices, routers, switches, carrier and wavetraps, two-way radios, fiber optics, wiring voice and data circuits and all associated hardware.
2. Utilizing SCADA and other computer/software-based means to gather system information.
3. Resolution of communications system problem requests from system Operations, Engineering, and Transmission & Distribution Services personnel in an efficient and timely manner.
4. Using various test equipment such as time division analyzer, frequency counter, O-scope, and spectrum analyzer to monitor and maintain communication systems to an optimum operating condition.
5. Maintaining a working knowledge of the following: TDM (time division multiplexing), T1 circuits used in voice and data transport, backhaul circuits, Ethernet used for data backhaul transport.
6. Installing computer hardware and software as well as configuring/provisioning software driven components.
7. Testing, recording, and documenting any changes made to communication systems and insuring NERC compliance.
8. Applying technical knowledge of electronics, communications, and networking principles to solve problems utilizing diagrams, schematics, engineering data, and test equipment.
9. Supporting system protection functions by performing system protection related duties as needed.
10. Assists in conducting commission testing of new or existing switch stations or substations and documenting all testing completed to ensure system reliability, and NERC compliance where applicable.

Safety, Support and Compliance:

1. Complies with all OSHA and WFEC safety rules, policies, and procedures.
2. Trains other personnel in the use of specifically assigned equipment.
3. Supports all Systems Technicians by performing duties in the other specialty as required.
4. Documents work for any NERC compliance requirements may apply.
5. Under the supervision of a Lead or Journeyman technician authorized to perform switching, coordinates with Transmission Operators on clearances and switching orders to ensure safe operations.

COMPETENCIES: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Technical Skills: Displays technical knowledge equal to job requirements; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

Quantity: Meets productivity goals; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity.

Quality: Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.

Analysis/Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses experience to complement data.

Organizational Support: Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization's goals and values.

Dependability/Attendance/Punctuality: Follows instructions and responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan; Is consistently at work and on time; Uses paid leave within policy requirements; Informs supervisor about necessary absences in a timely manner.

Safety and Security: Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

Planning/Organizing: Uses time efficiently; Sets goals and objectives; Prioritizes and plans work activities; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.

Customer Service: Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments to customers.

Cost Consciousness: Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; Conserves organizational resources.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors required.

Education and Experience - JOURNEYMAN SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATIONS: Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school in a related field or five years of directly related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience, plus minimum one year of Systems Technician level is required. Completion of a recognized apprentice training program in communications is also qualifying. Experience may be substituted for education at the rate of two years of experience for one year of education. Troubleshooting and problem resolution skills related to a wide range of communications equipment are required, including experience with communications systems and telephone systems.

Education and Experience - APPRENTICE SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN - COMMUNICATIONS: Must be a High School graduate and have a minimum of one (1) year experience in two (2) or more of the following areas:

1. Operation of light and/or heavy equipment such as cranes or boom trucks, digger equipment, bucket trucks, or aerial man lift devices.
2. Construction, maintenance, or operation of an electrical distribution or transmission system.
3. General construction or building experience as an electrician or apprentice electrician.
4. Previous schools or training (including military) related to the electrical industry.
5. Previous experience in any of the following categories:
   1. Working in climbing tools.
   2. Working from aerial man lift devices.
   3. Working at heights up to 120 feet or more.
   4. Working in electrical substations.
6. Working on or near high voltage AC circuits.
7. Have previous experience or training with computers or digital and/or electronic equipment.
8. Experience installing, troubleshooting, and resolving problems related to electric metering and relaying or communications equipment.

Language Skills: Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to other employees.

Math Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Computer Skills: Experience using a personal computer running Microsoft Office applications is required. Experience with various software applications used for communication, programming, and testing of systems is desired.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Must maintain a current and valid State of Oklahoma driver's license.

WORK SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS: This position requires that the incumbent live within a thirty-mile radius of specified base work location. Work schedules may require the incumbent to work overtime, weekends, holidays, extensive overnight travel, and travel overnight on short notice.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Requires sitting or standing for extended periods; lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying of weights equal to 50 pounds or more; climbing ladders and stairs and working on elevated platforms or scaffolding; walking and/or standing for extended periods of time; kneeling, crawling, stooping, bending, or twisting while arms above shoulders and stooping for extended periods of time to accomplish duties while grasping, pulling, or pushing objects or manipulating tools. Requires wearing personal safety equipment; manual and detailed handwork using both hands; and vision acuity to determine colors and shades of colors. Requires vision within normal range. Corrective lenses are permitted. Requires hearing within normal range. Hearing aids are permitted.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Requires working in varying outside weather conditions and inside temperature extremes with extreme ranges of humidity and dryness; working in confined spaces for extended periods of time; and requires working near high voltages. Requires working at night, inside or outside, in all weather conditions. In accordance with WFEC Administrative Procedure 805-Alcohol and Drug-Free Workplace this position is classified as "safety sensitive".

MUST MEET ALL PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WFEC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER AND

TAKES AFFIRMATIVE ACTION WITH RESPECT TO INDIVIDUALS

WITH DISABILITIES AND PROTECTED VETERANS