OSS Provisioning and Automation Architect

Ritter Communications is the largest privately held telecommunications provider serving exclusively the Mid-South, offering world-class broadband fiber, telecom, video, cloud and data center services. The company has grown rapidly over the years, investing millions recently in technology infrastructure and is now serving 155 communities and more than 57,000 customers in Arkansas, Texas, Missouri and Tennessee. Headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Ritter Communications invests heavily in the communities it serves by deploying proven, best-in-class infrastructure and technology, while coupling it with a world-class customer-focused experience.

General Summary:

The OSS Automation Architect is responsible for automation strategies for the Ritter Communications OSS environment. This role will be responsible for collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance system performance, reduce operational costs, and improve service delivery through effective provisioning, service activation, and automation practices for all residential and business customers.

Essential Job Functions:

• Architectural Design: Develops and manages architecture for OSS provisioning and automation, ensuring scalability, reliability, and security;
• Automation Strategy: Defines and executes an automation strategy for OSS processes, including service provisioning and automation monitoring;
• Integration: Works with vendors and internal groups to ensure 100% flow through provisioning/activations on current and future platforms for residential and business customers: Innovative Systems(Elations SDP), Incognito BCC, Nokia AMS/AltiPlano, and Metaswitch;
• Time Management Study: Measures and provides KPI's for automation process within activations, turnup and support;
• Tool Selection: Evaluates and select appropriate automation tools and technologies based on project requirements and industry best practices;
• Documentation: Maintains comprehensive documentation of automation processes, configurations, and workflows for reference and training purposes;
• Performance Monitoring: Implements monitoring solutions to assess the effectiveness of automation and make necessary adjustments and provide quarterly reports;
• Continuous Improvement: Stays updated on industry trends and technologies to continuously improve OSS automation practices;
• Collaboration: Meets with operational groups, engineering, and vendors for roadmaps and improvements on existing processes;
• Escalation: Provides support and final escalation for operational and engineering groups;
• Budget Planning: Establishes budgets and project plans for existing and new tools required;
• Works with change management and operational groups for updates to processes;
• Partners with external vendors on solution architecture and procurement;
• Works independently with little supervision on day-to-day tasks, receiving general instructions on new assignments;
• Travels to project areas, business related events, and other Ritter Communications locations as required;
• Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• In depth knowledge of management, provisioning methods, such as SOAP, REST APIs, Java, .Net, XML, NETCONF, YANG, and other open APIs;
• In depth knowledge of SNMP, TR-369, TR-069, and TR-143;
• Knowledge of Service Providers offerings, such as XGS PON, DOCSIS, DSL, Video, Voice, and Ethernet Services;
• Knowledge of CRM systems and tools such as Salesforce;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to both technical and non-technical stakeholders;
• Ability to create scripts and automation workflows using languages such as Python, and Bash;
• Demonstrated ability to create and manage project plans;
• Clear understanding of best practices of automation with security controls;
• Adept at strategic thinking, time management, and problem-solving;
• Ability to travel for business requirements; must possess a valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record.

Education and Experience:

BA or BS in information Computer Programming, or related area or a minimum of 5 years in the service provider industry, with related certifications such as:

• Red Hat Certified Specialist in API Management
• IBM Rest Certification

Ritter Communications is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We strive to maintain a drug-free workplace.

We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefits package including health, dental, vision, cancer, accident and life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match, flexible spending accounts, free gym membership, company discounts, tuition reimbursement, paid training, paid leave, and much more!