Director of Telecommunications

To apply candidates must send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].

The Director of Telecommunications is an executive management position with direct participation and preparation of policy, strategic planning, and operation direction. Responsible for strategic planning, technical compatibility, forecasting, engineering, operation and maintenance of telecommunications-related software and hardware, and the overall management of the County’s telecommunications resources. Oversees the overall day-to-day operation and activities of the Telecommunications Department. Has primary responsibility for managing telecommunications services including the assignment and billing for all wireless devices, the installation, maintenance, management, and billing of all switching systems, devices and equipment including associated voice and data circuits. Manages technical and administrative personnel to resolve telecommunications problems of new or existing systems. Supervises personnel and various vendors in the design and implementation of communication networks and systems. Manages personnel in the assessment and optimization of network design through review and analysis of user needs. The Director of Telecommunication Operations serves in a confidential advisory role and reports to the Chief Technology Officer.

Prepare the annual Budget for the Department of Telecommunications Operations. Develops and implements policies as it relates to the operation of County telecommunications, including the analysis of the County’s needs as telecommunications changes.

Develops policies related to the County use of telecommunication devices and monitors usage. Plan and oversee installation of the voice/data networks and equipment for all County facilities and affiliations. Supervise consultants, vendors, contractors, and various departments to ensure that new installations run smoothly and adhere to Cook County specifications. Inspect jobs to ensure compliance with safety and building codes and to ensure that the quality and materials meet County standards. Ensure that the foremen have the material and support to prioritize and complete their various installation and the repair jobs in a timely fashion. Determine necessary training to keep the telecommunications department current with technology. Supervise the monitoring of the network performance to insure reliability and minimum interruptions in service. Prescribe changes in network configurations to improve levels of service and reliability and maximize the efficiency of the network through least cost routing. Propose purchases of new communications software, hardware, and related upgrades. Evaluate, and supervise the installation of telecommunication equipment, premise distribution systems, and related telecommunication services. Engineer and coordinate implementation of network ties and routing patterns for the most efficient use of the County network when adding new locations. Works with confidential and sensitive documents related to County-wide usage of computerized systems, security matters related to access and maintenance of data on the County computer systems, and personnel issues.

Thorough knowledge and working experience of current and developing communications hardware and software systems. Demonstrated skill in telecommunication network design, traffic engineering, and network routing. Proven technical and managerial skills to monitor and control communications system performance.

Experience sufficient to identify and solve technical operating problems as they occur. Ability to interpret blueprints, circuit descriptions, electrical diagrams, and local electrical codes. Knowledge of city, state, and local building codes as they relate to electrical construction. Possess a sound knowledge and working experience with data LAN and WAN systems which include Ethernet and Sonet networks. This position may require moderate to extensive travel throughout Cook County. The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work. They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee’s normal line of work. Project management skills. Strong oral and written communications skills.

Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree PLUS a minimum of three (3) years of experience in telecommunication systems OR, an equivalent combination of professional work experience, training and education.

Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree. Five (5) years of experience in telecommunication systems.

To apply candidates must send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer