Communications Technician

SALARY

$51.00

POSITION SUMMARY

Tests, repairs and adjusts electronic communication equipment used by the Authority. Provides technical support at the CTA's Control Center and supporting field locations for technology systems including but not limited to radio, telephone, public address, video, real-time bus and train systems, IP-based systems, and supporting infrastructure.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Tests, repairs, and adjusts electronic communication and computer equipment.
• Assists in developing test procedures and communication equipment modifications.
• Coordinates the activities of employees assigned to maintain, test, adjust, and repair the Authority’s electronic communications facilities.
• Assembles, wires, and solders custom communication equipment.
• Installs and removes electronic communication equipment in the Authority’s vehicles and facilities. Detects and adjusts flaws in broadcast transmissions.
• Maintains proper records of all repairs and modifications performed on the Authority’s communications equipment.
• Monitors the Authority’s radio frequencies to ensure that transmissions are in compliance with F.C.C. regulations.
• Performs support for the maintenance of the CTA CCTV system.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to this position are the following jobs:

Job Title

CHALLENGES

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Must have formal training or working knowledge of analog, digital, and IP-based communications systems including telephone systems, public address systems, digital signage systems, camera systems, and uninterruptible power systems.
• Must have formal training or working knowledge of analog, digital, and IP-based radio systems
• Required to possess and maintain a valid Illinois driver’s license and be able to operate an Authority or personal vehicle.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Required to lift, carry and maneuver materials weighing up to 75 pounds.
• Required to have good or corrected vision and hearing and be able to distinguish colors.
• Must be physically fit in order to climb ladders, stairs, poles, walk elevated structures, right-of-ways, subways, enter manholes and walk underground tunnels or pass ways.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces in a standing, kneeling or bending positions for extended amount of time.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
• Advanced knowledge of the operation of the Authority’s electronic communication equipment.
• Working knowledge of F.C.C. regulations governing the use of transportation two-way radios and other communications equipment used by the Authority.
• Advanced knowledge of the procedures and technical methods utilized in the testing, repair and adjustment of radio and other electronic communications equipment.
• Ability to effectively coordinate the activities of employees assigned the maintenance of communications equipment.
• Ability to write and express oneself in a clear, logical and comprehensive manner.
• Ability to maintain good working relationships with various levels of Authority personnel.
• Ability to read and interpret blue prints, wiring diagrams and schematic drawings.

WORKING CONDITIONS
• Required to submit to and pass drug and alcohol testing as mandated by the Federal Transportation Administration.
• Exposed to dirt, loud noise, various light and weather conditions.
• Works in close proximity to energized third rail (600 VDC), moving trains and vehicular street traffic.
• Subject to call out anytime of day or night, especially in emergency situations.
• Required to work from a ladder, bucket truck or other lift type equipment.
• Required to climb ladders, stairs, and poles, walk elevated structures, right-of-ways, subways, enter manholes and walk underground tunnels or pass ways.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED
• Bucket truck and related equipment.