AMI Technician I (St. Thomas)

Under the general supervision of the AMI Operations Manager, the AMI Technician I is responsible for field-level and system-level support of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). This includes troubleshooting, validating, replacing, and maintaining AMI communication devices such as SocketAPs, Access Points (APs), and Relays. The AMI Technician monitors device performance using UIQ, supports firmware evaluations in the test farm, and works closely with Itron, UIQ support, and internal IT staff to ensure reliable AMI operations.

Because the Authority has a primary responsibility to serve the public 24 hours a day, an employee in this class is expected to work overtime as conditions demand and may be expected to accept overtime on short notice during emergency conditions or power outages.

Device Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Investigates and troubleshoots SocketAPs, Access Points (APs), and Relays to identify communication issues or device failures.
• Replaces or repairs AMI network devices as required to maintain reliable meter communication.
• Works with UIQ and Itron support teams to validate device configurations, communication status, and performance.
• Conducts field inspections of AMI equipment, ensuring correct installation, grounding, signal quality, and connectivity.

System Monitoring

• Uses UIQ and related tools to monitor meter and AMI network device performance.
• Identifies communication failures, low-performing APs/Relays, and network anomalies, and escalates issues as necessary.
• Supports the AMI Operations Manager in producing performance metrics and device status reports.

Testing & Firmware Evaluation

• Supports monitoring of the AMI test farm, validating meter communication, device updates, and system behaviors.
• Evaluates firmware updates for SocketAPs, APs, Relays, and related equipment before deployment to the live environment.
• Documents findings from firmware tests and device evaluations.

Field Operations & Support

• Performs field diagnostics using test equipment, handheld tools, and software applications.
• Assists with system upgrades, device replacements, AMI expansion efforts, and network optimization tasks.
• Coordinates with Customer Service, Metering, Engineering, and IT regarding meter accessibility, replacement needs, or communication issues.
• Responds to outages or emergency events affecting AMI communication devices.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintains accurate records of device replacements, troubleshooting actions, test results, and field observations.
• Updates installation standards, incident logs, and workflow documentation.
• Follows all cybersecurity, safety, and data-handling procedures.

• Working knowledge of electrical systems, communications equipment, and wireless network concepts.
• Ability to read and understand technical diagrams, schematics, and device documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, field personnel, and IT staff.
• Ability to follow complex instructions, complete detailed documentation, and work independently in the field.
• Basic computer proficiency and familiarity with handheld diagnostic tools.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both writing and speech.
• Ability to follow complex instructions, meet deadlines, and work independently or in a team.
• High degree of initiative, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands an arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work involves both office and field environments. The employee may be exposed to varying weather conditions, energized equipment, high-noise areas, and elevated work locations. During the replacement or servicing of AMI communication devices, the employee may be exposed to electrical circuits of up to 240 volts. Appropriate safety procedures, PPE, and lockout/tagout practices must be followed at all times.

The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud.

Graduate of an accredited college or university with a associate degree in Electronics, Information Technology, Telecommunications, or related field; or equivalent technical experience. Two to four years of experience in electrical systems, telecommunications, utility metering, or networked device maintenance. Experience with AMI systems, RF mesh networks, or Itron equipment preferred.