Communications Technician

Communications Technician

Technology Services

Job Summary
An entry level position responsible for data and/or voice communications, circuit troubleshooting and network documentation within the defined procedures and standards. This position works under the general supervision of a designated technician and/or manager.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Follow established procedures to install network infrastructure including Cat 5 or above copper cable and multi-mode/single mode fiber optic cable.
• Locate outside plant cable as required.
• Follow established procedures to repair breakdowns or malfunctions in isolated pieces of circuits, e.g., troubleshoot voice and data.
• Communicate with departments and vendors, as needed, during installation and fault location.
• Assist with testing and be available to perform emergency back-up procedures.
• Make assignments of communication media and equipment for specific services. Update circuit information. Assist with labeling equipment. Maintain network documentation and equipment specifications.
• Know basic communications technology and observe its applications.
• Participate in occasional training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

Additional Physical Demands
Physical Demands:
* Use of hand tools, climbing of ladders, the ability to distinguish colors and lifting (transporting) of heavy objects weighing upwards of 50lbs is essential to performance of the work.

Working Conditions:
* The work environment generally includes offices, basements, crawlspaces, and attics of campus buildings. Communication nodes, manholes and equipment closets are additional work areas.
* Working in high areas outside of a building may be required. The majority of work is performed at field sites and requires the use of a department vehicle. Safety is stressed in all aspects of the job.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Any one or any combination totaling one (1) year (12 months) from the categories below:
   1. college/vocational/technical training in applied sciences and technologies, fiber optic installation, telecommunications, electronics engineering/technology, or a related technical field, as measured by the following conversion table to its proportional equivalent:
      1. 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
      2. Associate’s Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
      3. OR
         work experience in telecommunications, fiber optic installations, or electrical installation.
      
      
   
   
2. Possession of a valid driver’s license is required by the State of Illinois for the type of motor vehicle(s) to be operated by the incumbent.

Preferred Qualifications

Work experience installing and maintaining data networks with Cat 5 and above cable for educational or commercial use in compliance with TIA/EIA or NEC standards. Work experience with the installation, termination and certification of fiber optic cable.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of telecommunications technology, practices, principles, and techniques.
Skill in using electronic test equipment.
Skill in installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Skill in the mechanical and analytical ability for problem-solving.
Ability to read and follow schematics and diagrams.
Ability to work successfully as a team member and independently with moderate supervision.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 3902 – Communications Technician position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date. The wage for this position is $21.10 per hour.

Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Monday, February 16, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Dallas Johnson at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions – every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence – where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [email protected].

Requisition ID: 1034913

Job Category: Technical

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu