As Manager-Joint Use Operationsoversees the strategy, administration, contracting, and risk assessment for TDS' utility pole management program. The position works closely with internal and external stakeholders and decision-makers to ensure that the needs of the company are being met and are in compliance. The Manager also leads the team responsible for the day-to-day work of planning, coordinating, and supervising utility pole attachment contracts and utility pole management.

The pay range listed for this position represents the low and high end of the base compensation range. The actual offer amount will carefully consider multiple factors, such as relevant skills, qualifications, work experience, location and/or competencies that align with the specified role. Certain positions are eligible for additional forms of compensation such as bonuses and equity awards.

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS Telecom/TDS) delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout the U.S. With 1.2 million connections, TDS is a rapidly growing technology company. Powered by fiber optics and new industry-leading technologies, TDS delivers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and offers internet-protocol-based TV entertainment solutions along with traditional phone services. TDS also offers businesses VoIP advanced communications solutions, dedicated internet service, data networking, and hosted-managed services. Visit tdstelecom.com.

TDS Telecom, headquartered in Madison, Wis., employs 3,600 people and is a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. [NYSE: TDS], a Fortune 1000 company. Founded in 1969, Telephone and Data Systems provides wireless, broadband, video and voice; and hosted and managed services to approximately 6 million connections nationwide through its businesses: UScellular, TDS Telecom, and OneNeck IT Solutions. Visit tdsinc.com.

Leads the strategy and administration of TDS' utility pole compliance work:

Sets strategic agenda and develop strategic plans for the program.
• Develops and implements internal controls in support of the Field Services team.
• Functions as a primary point of contact for pole management risk assessment matters pertaining to TDS. Meets periodically with key members of Field Services senior management to discuss business performance and risk assessment results, identify changing/emerging risks, and prioritize mitigation activities.
• Regularly communicates and negotiates with external high-level decision makers, such as construction/engineering contractor vendors, third-party utility companies, city managers, mayors, and directors of public works.
• Manages the operational budget for pole attachments and tree trimming activities across multiple states. Serves as key stakeholder for annual budget and long-range forecasting.
• Serves as first point of contact for contractual agreements and work priority requests for contractors and utility companies.

Manages a team of TDS associates and/or consultants who are responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising utility pole attachment contracts and day-to-day pole management in multiple locations and states:

• Provides guidance on processes, issues, and best practices.
• Responsible for the creation of new and the renewal of pole attachment/license agreements across multiple states and municipalities.

Establishes business partnerships and collaborates with key internal stakeholders:

• Builds and maintains effective working relationships with Field Services leaders.
• Works closely with the internal legal counsel and Government Regulatory Affairs, where appropriate, to share information regarding risks and controls within Field Services and identify best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) -OR- 4+ years professional work experience.
• 5+ years of combined experience in project management and finance.
• 3+ years of experience in contract negotiation.

Other Qualifications

• Pole management experience strongly preferred.
• Strong NESC (National Electrical Safety Code) knowledge and background preferred.
• Process improvement and quality management experience is a plus.
• Advanced Excel skills, including financial reporting and tracking experience.
• SAP skills.
• Excellent planning, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to motivate multiple individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills in the context of shifting priorities.
• Excellent client and consultant relationship skills.
• Ability to appropriately deal with conflict and high visibility situations.

Do you meet all of the Required Qualifications, but aren't sure if your experience meets the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that some candidates may not apply for jobs unless they feel they meet 100% of the qualifications, when, in fact, they have the skills and experience to be successful in the role! Experience and skills come in many different forms and may not always look identical to what we have on paper, but still lead to success in the role. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have what it takes to be successful in the position, apply today!

Benefits

Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and paid time off benefits such as vacation (15 days accrued per year for full-time; pro-rated for part-time associates working between 20-39 hours), sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates), seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday, paid parental leave (2 weeks after 12 months of employment), among others. Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability coverage is also available for associates working 30 or more hours per week and Education Assistance is available to full-time associates. Associates scheduled to work under twenty hours per week or for a limited term (i.e. interns) are eligible for medical coverage, the 401(k) plan (if 18 or older), as well as sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates). For more detail on the benefits we offer click here.

At TDS, we embrace Equal Employment Opportunity by valuing our differences and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by law. To learn about our diversity & inclusion philosophy and culture, click here!