HAROLD WATERS JR.
Lawrenceburg,KY
Summary
Results-driven and highly skilled telecommunications professional with extensive industry experience. Maintaining an active TS clearance, leveraging comprehensive skill sets to lead and coordinate OSP fiber projects from design through As-Built delivery. Over a decade of expertise in OSP design, fiber optic infrastructure, project management, and network implementation, with a proven track record of success. Wealth of experience includes designing, implementing, and optimizing OSP solutions for government entities. Navigating complex regulatory environments and ensuring compliance with federal standards is second nature. Excel in project management, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering high-quality solutions on time and within budget. Known for expertise in OSP design, installation, and maintenance; maximizing efficiency and minimizing downtime. Proficient in developing fiber optic and copper cable networks to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Conducting site surveys, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams are key strengths that help meet project objectives. Adhering to industry standards and regulations is crucial as it guarantees the delivery of high-quality solutions.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
SR ENGINEER - FEDERAL OSP
Lumen
06.2022 - Current
- Design and oversee Federal OSP (Outside Plant) telecommunications projects: Lead the planning and conceptualization of OSP fiber projects, ensuring alignment with federal requirements
- Utilize telecommunications expertise to design efficient and reliable solutions
- Manage full project lifecycle: Take charge of projects from inception to As-Built delivery, ensuring seamless execution and timely completion
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to meet project milestones and objectives
- Coordinate subcontractors, materials, inspectors, and equipment: Facilitate collaboration among various project contributors, including subcontractors, inspectors, and suppliers
- Ensure the availability of necessary materials and equipment to support on-schedule and budget-compliant project execution
- Maintain an Active TS Clearance: Uphold a current Top Secret (TS) security clearance, demonstrating a commitment to the security protocols and confidentiality requirements essential in federal telecommunications projects
- Perform OTDR trace analysis: Conduct Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) trace analyses to assess the integrity and performance of fiber optic networks
- Use analytical skills to identify and resolve potential issues, ensuring optimal network functionality
- Evaluate fiber characteristics: Assess the characteristics of fiber optic cables, considering factors such as signal strength, bandwidth, and transmission capabilities
- Apply knowledge of telecommunications to optimize fiber performance and address any limitations
- Document test results: Thoroughly document OTDR trace analyses, fiber evaluations, and other relevant test results
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive records to support project documentation, compliance, and future troubleshooting efforts
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations: Stay informed about and adhere to federal regulations governing telecommunications projects
- Ensure that all project activities, designs, and implementations align with applicable laws and standards, contributing to the overall success and legality of the projects
SPACE AND PROPAGATION ENGINEERING OFFICER
United States Marine Corps
07.1995 - Current
- Develop documentation and provide technical guidance for command and control systems: Lead the development of comprehensive documentation and offered technical guidance for command and control systems
- Execute training programs to improve operational readiness on communication gear: Execute training programs aimed at enhancing the operational readiness of communication gear
- Conduct training sessions to equip personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective utilization of telecommunications equipment
- Enforce100% compliance on Information Assurance patches and procedures: Ensured strict adherence to Information Assurance patches and procedures on both NIPRnet and SIPRnet networks
- Enforce a100% compliance standard, enhancing the security and integrity of the telecommunications infrastructure
- Manage secure and non-secure data networks: Oversee the management of both secure and non-secure data networks within the Marine Expeditionary Force
- Implement protocols and procedures to guarantee the confidentiality and reliability of data transmission
- Provide support for command and control systems: Offer ongoing support for command and control systems, addressing technical issues, and providing timely solutions
- Collaborated with relevant stakeholders to ensure the seamless operation of telecommunications systems critical to the division's command and control functions
- Conduct regular audits and assessments: Conduct regular audits and assessments of telecommunication systems to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement
- Implemented corrective measures to address identified issues, contributing to the overall robustness and security of the division's telecommunications infrastructure
- Communications planning and deployment: Advise the G-6 Staff and Major Subordinate Commands (MSC) on communications capabilities, limitations, planning, and employment of transmission and space equipment
ENGINEER II - FEDERAL OSP
Lumen
07.2021 - 06.2022
- Maintained Active Secret Clearance: Successfully maintained an Active Secret Clearance, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining a secure and confidential work environment in the field of telecommunications
- Led applied research, development, and design: Took a leadership role in applied research, development, and design activities related to Outside Plant (OSP) infrastructure and fiber optic cabling
- Spearheaded initiatives to enhance telecommunications infrastructure and technology
- Coordinated project elements: Orchestrated various project elements, including subcontractors, materials, and tools, to ensure the successful execution of telecommunications projects
- Emphasized quality control measures and adherence to project timelines
- Conducted OTDR trace analysis: Utilized Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) technology to conduct trace analyses on fiber optic networks
- Analyzed test results to identify and rectify potential issues, contributing to the overall performance and reliability of telecommunications systems
- Spliced and tested fibers: Executed splicing and testing procedures on fiber optic cables to ensure optimal functionality
- Applied technical expertise to perform meticulous testing, identifying and resolving connectivity issues as part of routine maintenance and project implementation
- Prepared detailed project documentation: Created comprehensive project documentation, detailing activities, analyses, and outcomes
- Documented OTDR trace analyses, splicing procedures, testing results, and other relevant project information for future reference and compliance purposes
- Contributed to quality and timeline benchmarks: Played a key role in meeting and exceeding quality and timeline benchmarks for telecommunications projects
- Collaborated with team members to streamline processes and optimize project efficiency
- Supported project compliance: Ensured adherence to project specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements
- Contributed to the development and implementation of protocols that aligned with compliance standards in the telecommunications field
NETWORK IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM MANAGER
Lumen
05.2020 - 07.2021
- Managed processing and reporting of work activities: Directed the efficient processing and reporting of work activities related to telecommunications network implementation
- Implemented streamlined processes to enhance workflow and ensure accurate documentation
- Inventoried OSP facilities: Conducted comprehensive inventories of Outside Plant (OSP) facilities, meticulously cataloging and tracking telecommunications infrastructure
- Facilitated efficient resource allocation and informed decision-making in subsequent project phases
- Documented projects: Generated detailed project documentation capturing key activities, milestones, and outcomes
- Maintained accurate and organized records to support project tracking, compliance, and future reference
- Collaborated with carriers, agencies, and building owners/landlords: Established collaborative partnerships with carriers, government agencies, and building owners/landlords
- Facilitated communication and cooperation for new building additions and relocations, ensuring smooth project implementation
- Oversaw fiber verification requests: Took charge of fiber verification requests, managing the process from initiation to completion
- Coordinated efforts to verify fiber optic infrastructure, addressing any discrepancies and ensuring accuracy in project planning
- Managed project estimations, designs, bids, permits, and construction: Provided oversight for various aspects of project management, including estimations, design approvals, bid processes, permit acquisitions, and construction activities
- Ensured alignment with project goals, timelines, and budgetary constraints
- Facilitated collaboration with multiple stakeholders: Orchestrated effective communication and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including internal teams, external vendors, and regulatory bodies
- Navigated relationships to drive project success and overcome potential challenges
- Ensured adherence to industry standards and regulations: Monitored projects to ensure compliance with telecommunications industry standards and regulatory requirements
- Implemented protocols and procedures to guarantee that all activities met the necessary legal and quality standards
PROJECT MANAGER
Hutchins Telecom
09.2019 - 04.2020
- Managed daily construction crew activities for OSP facilities: Oversaw and directed the daily activities of construction crews involved in the implementation of Outside Plant (OSP) facilities for telecommunications projects
- Ensured adherence to project schedules, quality standards, and safety protocols
- Worked closely with permitting offices for encroachment permitting: Collaborated with permitting offices to secure necessary approvals and permits for encroachments related to telecommunications infrastructure projects
- Facilitated a smooth and efficient permitting process to avoid delays in project timelines
- Provided direct interface with customers, subcontractors, and jurisdictional authorities: Acted as the primary point of contact for customers, subcontractors, and jurisdictional authorities throughout the project lifecycle
- Fostered effective communication channels, addressing concerns, resolving issues, and maintaining positive relationships to achieve successful project completion
- Ensured successful project completion: Implemented strategic planning and execution strategies to achieve successful project completion
- Monitored project progress, identified potential roadblocks, and implemented corrective actions to keep projects on track and within established parameters
- Managed project timelines and milestones: Developed and maintained detailed project timelines, ensuring alignment with overall project goals and objectives
- Monitored progress against milestones, identifying areas for improvement and implementing adjustments to keep the project on schedule
- Implemented quality control measures: Enforced and monitored quality control measures to guarantee the delivery of telecommunications projects met or exceeded industry standards
- Conducted regular inspections and quality assessments to ensure the integrity and reliability of OSP facilities
LEAD ENGINEERING SPECIALIST
Black & Veatch
12.2017 - 09.2019
- Managed OSP design of copper and fiber optic facilities: Directed the design process for Outside Plant (OSP) facilities, overseeing both copper and fiber optic infrastructure
- Applied expertise in telecommunications to ensure the efficient and effective design of facilities, meeting project requirements and specifications
- Coordinated with local governing bodies on right-of-way and route discrepancies: Engaged with local governing bodies to address and resolve right-of-way and route discrepancies in telecommunications projects
- Ensured compliance with regulations and secured necessary approvals for OSP facilities placement
- Provided engineering guidance on third-party attachers: Offered expert engineering guidance to third-party attachers involved in telecommunications projects
- Collaborated to ensure seamless integration of additional components into existing infrastructure, promoting efficiency and optimal functionality
- Provided engineering guidance on ISP construction drawings: Offered guidance and expertise in the evaluation and enhancement of Internet Service Provider (ISP) construction drawings
- Ensured accuracy and alignment with project specifications, facilitating smooth project execution
- Ensured compliance with industry standards: Monitored and enforced adherence to telecommunications industry standards in the design and implementation of OSP facilities
- Implemented protocols to guarantee the quality, reliability, and safety of the telecommunications infrastructure
- Led training sessions and knowledge transfer: Shared expertise and knowledge through training sessions with team members and relevant stakeholders
- Facilitated knowledge transfer to enhance the capabilities of the team and foster a culture of continuous improvement in telecommunications engineering practices
- Optimized OSP design processes: Streamlined and optimized the OSP design processes for both copper and fiber optic facilities
- Introduced efficiency measures, and standardized workflows, and leveraged technology to enhance the overall design capabilities and productivity
- Participated in cross-functional collaboration: Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including project managers, construction crews, and quality assurance specialists
OUTSIDE PLANT ENGINEER
Level3 (formerly tw telecom)
06.2014 - 12.2017
- Directed the design, upgrade, and repair of325 fiber miles and403 on-net buildings: Provided leadership in overseeing the design, upgrade, and repair activities for a significant telecommunications network, covering325 fiber miles and403 on-net buildings
- Ensured that projects were executed in line with specifications, quality standards, and project goals
- Managed multiple fiber plant construction projects: Successfully managed multiple fiber plant construction projects, overseeing project planning, execution, and completion
- Maintained a focus on budget adherence and facilitated monthly forecasting to support financial planning and resource allocation
- Ensured budget adherence and monthly forecasting: Implemented financial management practices to ensure adherence to project budgets
- Conducted monthly forecasting activities, providing accurate financial projections and enabling proactive decision-making to address potential budgetary challenges
- Developed accurate Statement of Work (SOW) packages: Took the lead in developing precise and comprehensive Statement of Work (SOW) packages
- Ensured that SOWs accurately captured project requirements, scope, and deliverables, facilitating clear communication with contractors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders
- Demonstrated proficiency in OTDR troubleshooting: Applied expertise in Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) troubleshooting techniques
- Effectively identified and resolved issues within fiber optic networks, contributing to the reliability and performance of the telecommunications infrastructure
CENTRAL OFFICE ENGINEER
tw telecom
04.2011 - 06.2014
- Provided cost-effective solutions adhering to company and industry standards: Offered cost-effective solutions in line with both company and industry standards, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency and compliance in telecommunications engineering practices
- Engineered and planned the installation and turn-up of fiber optic cable and SONET transmission equipment: Led the engineering and planning efforts for the installation and activation of fiber optic cable and Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) transmission equipment
- Ensured meticulous planning and execution to meet project timelines and technical specifications
- Coordinated building access, and identified growing space: Orchestrated efforts to secure building access for telecommunications installations
- Identified and allocated growing space within central offices, optimizing the utilization of resources and accommodating future expansions
- Performed site surveys for installation: Conducted comprehensive site surveys to assess and plan for the installation of telecommunications equipment
- Evaluated factors such as spatial requirements, environmental considerations, and access points, contributing to the successful implementation of projects
- Ensured compliance with safety and regulatory standards: Implemented and maintained adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards during the installation and turn-up processes
- Prioritized the safety of personnel and equipment while guaranteeing compliance with industry regulations and guidelines
NETWORK TECHNICIAN II
tw telecom
08.2007 - 04.2011
- Managed the installation, operations, and maintenance of commercial ethernet, voice, and data services: Oversaw the end-to-end processes of installing, operating, and maintaining commercial ethernet, voice, and data services
- Ensured the seamless delivery of telecommunications services to customers while meeting performance and reliability standards
- Installed, tested, and turned up Alcatel-Lucent and Cisco fiber multiplexers and ethernet switches: Led the installation, testing, and activation of telecommunications equipment, specifically Alcatel-Lucent and Cisco fiber multiplexers, and ethernet switches
- Ensured proper functionality and performance through rigorous testing procedures and efficient turn-up processes
- Implemented preventive maintenance programs for customer sites and central offices: Developed and implemented preventive maintenance programs for both customer sites and central offices
- Proactively addressed potential issues, minimized downtime, and enhanced the overall reliability of telecommunications services
- Conducted troubleshooting and diagnostic activities: Applied technical expertise to troubleshoot and diagnose issues related to telecommunications services
- Identified and resolved problems promptly, ensuring minimal service disruptions and optimal performance
- Maintained accurate documentation: Created and maintained accurate documentation of installation, testing, and maintenance activities
- Ensured that records were up-to-date and easily accessible, providing valuable insights for future troubleshooting, audits, and improvements
WIRELESS NETWORK PROJECT SUPERVISOR
Bluegrass Cellular
05.2006 - 07.2007
- Managed Engineering Department projects, including new and co-location cellular site builds: Took charge of overseeing Engineering Department projects, encompassing the construction of new cellular sites and co-location projects
- Ensured effective project management from initiation to completion, meeting quality and timeline objectives
- Evaluated and qualified bids from General Contractors, ensuring cost-effective alternatives: Led the evaluation and qualification of bids from General Contractors for telecommunications projects
- Prioritized cost-effectiveness while maintaining high standards, selecting contractors that aligned with project requirements and budget constraints
- Maintained real-time project status documentation: Implemented real-time project status documentation processes, keeping accurate and up-to-date records of project activities
- Provided clear visibility into project progress, facilitating effective communication with stakeholders and informed decision-making
- Coordinated with internal and external stakeholders: Fostered collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders involved in wireless network projects
- Facilitated communication, addressed concerns, and ensured alignment with project goals to achieve successful outcomes
- Supervised project teams: Provided supervision and guidance to project teams, ensuring efficient and productive work environments
- Fostered a collaborative and results-oriented culture within the teams, contributing to the successful execution of wireless network projects
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations: Monitored and enforced adherence to industry regulations and standards throughout project implementation
- Implemented protocols to guarantee the quality, safety, and legality of wireless network projects
NETWORK OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR
Bluegrass Networks, LLC
07.2000 - 05.2006
- Supervised Central Office and Outside Plant Technicians, overseeing daily tasks: Provided leadership and supervision to Central Office and Outside Plant Technicians, ensuring the effective execution of daily tasks
- Managed network maintenance activities and projects for five rural telephone companies: Took charge of managing network maintenance activities and projects for five rural telephone companies
- Oversaw the planning, execution, and completion of projects, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the telecommunications network
- Developed a five-year strategic plan for budgeting based on network expansion: Formulated a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for budgeting, aligning with the goals of network expansion
- Conducted thorough analyses to support budgetary decisions and facilitate the successful implementation of strategic initiatives
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams: Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including technicians, engineers, and project managers, to ensure seamless coordination and communication
- Worked towards shared objectives, contributing to the overall success of network operations and projects
- Implemented process improvements: Identified opportunities for process improvement within network operations
- Implemented changes to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and optimize resource utilization, contributing to overall operational effectiveness
- Provided training and professional development: Offered training and professional development opportunities for team members to enhance their skills and knowledge
- Fostered a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the network operations team
Education
EXECUTIVE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION -
Sullivan University
Louisville, KY01.2013
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT -
Indiana Wesleyan
Louisville, KY01.2012
Skills
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Outside Plant (OSP) Design
- Fiber Optic Cabling
- Project Management
- Budget Management
- Technical Training
- Quality Assurance
- Cost Optimization
- Strategic Planning
- OTDR Analysis
- Construction Coordination
- Permitting
- Team Management
- Network Expansion
- Strategic Network Planning
- Command and Control Systems
Accomplishments
- Project Efficiency Improvement: Spearheaded initiatives that increased project efficiency by 20% through streamlined OSP fiber project coordination, design, and implementation processes.
- Budget Management Excellence: Demonstrated fiscal responsibility by consistently managing OSP project budgets within or under allocated funds, achieving a 15% cost savings on average across multiple projects.
- Technical Training Impact: Led impactful training sessions for Field Technicians, resulting in a 25% improvement in their ability to troubleshoot Outside Plant fiber optic cable issues using advanced tools like OTDR and power meters.
- Optical Fiber Network Expansion: Successfully managed the expansion of the optical fiber network, overseeing the completion of 100+ buildings on-net within a one-year timeframe, contributing to enhanced connectivity and service offerings.
- Strategic Network Planning: Played a key role in strategic network planning, developing a five-year plan for budgeting purposes based on network expansion, facilitating company and partner growth, and implementing cutting-edge technologies.
- Quality Assurance and Compliance: Implemented stringent quality control measures resulting in a 15% reduction in construction discrepancies and ensuring adherence to industry standards, reinforcing the company's commitment to delivering high-quality OSP projects.
- Operational Cost Optimization: Introduced innovative cost optimization strategies, leading to a 10% reduction in operational costs associated with OSP projects. Implemented efficient resource allocation and procurement practices to achieve sustainable financial gains.
Certification
- BICSI – DD101: Foundations of Telecom Distribution Design, RCDD Test Preparation Course (Version14)
- Project Management – PM PrepCast Course (35hrs)
- OSHA – OSHA10 Hour Certification
- Alcatel –1603 SM/SMX,1671 DCS,1677 SL,1353 GEM Management, Lambda Unite Lucent – ATM Trunk Troubleshooting & Overview, Frame Relay Configuration, Naviscore Management System Fundamentals, Packetstar Access Concentrator Implementation, Wavestar, DMX Product Line (Access/Xtend/Xplore)
- Nortel – AMPS/TDMA Cellular Systems Overview, S/DMS Transport Node OC3/12/48
- Cisco -7609,15310,15454,3550,3400,3600CX, ASR9K Knowledgenet – Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices, Introduction to Networking
- Military – Digital Telephone/Switchboard Repair Course, Analog Telephone/Switchboard Repair Course, Metallic/Optical Cable Testing and Repair Course, Digital Technical Controller Training/Warrant Officer Basic Course/Warrant Officer Communications Course, NSSI Space100
Additional Information
- MILITARY ACHIEVEMENTS: Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (4th award), Combat Action Ribbon, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Timeline
SR ENGINEER - FEDERAL OSP
Lumen
06.2022 - Current
ENGINEER II - FEDERAL OSP
Lumen
07.2021 - 06.2022
NETWORK IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM MANAGER
Lumen
05.2020 - 07.2021
PROJECT MANAGER
Hutchins Telecom
09.2019 - 04.2020
LEAD ENGINEERING SPECIALIST
Black & Veatch
12.2017 - 09.2019
OUTSIDE PLANT ENGINEER
Level3 (formerly tw telecom)
06.2014 - 12.2017
CENTRAL OFFICE ENGINEER
tw telecom
04.2011 - 06.2014
NETWORK TECHNICIAN II
tw telecom
08.2007 - 04.2011
WIRELESS NETWORK PROJECT SUPERVISOR
Bluegrass Cellular
05.2006 - 07.2007
NETWORK OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR
Bluegrass Networks, LLC
07.2000 - 05.2006
SPACE AND PROPAGATION ENGINEERING OFFICER
United States Marine Corps
07.1995 - Current
EXECUTIVE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION -
Sullivan University
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT -
Indiana Wesleyan
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