Hill Country Telephone Cooperative (HCTC) is seeking a highly organized and technically skilled Outside Plant GIS Planner to support the mapping, planning, and analysis of our expanding telecommunications network. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the accuracy of HCTC's GIS databases, supporting broadband expansion initiatives, and providing planning data used for engineering, budgeting, construction, and funding opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working extensively with GIS mapping systems, telecommunications data, spatial analysis, and infrastructure planning in a fast-paced and evolving broadband environment.

Position Summary

The Outside Plant GIS Planner is responsible for maintaining and developing GIS-based telecommunications mapping systems and planning data for fiber, copper, and fixed wireless infrastructure projects. The position supports network expansion projects by creating and managing detailed mapping records, project zones, engineering documentation, and construction planning data.

This role works closely with engineering, construction, operations, and external partners to ensure mapping accuracy and support strategic broadband deployment initiatives throughout HCTC service territories.

Key Responsibilities

Create, maintain, and update GIS maps, planning zones, and telecommunications infrastructure records using ESRI ArcGIS, CrowdFiber, Google Earth, and related GIS platforms
Develop and maintain mapping layers for FTTH, FTTX, fixed wireless, ILEC/CLEC boundaries, and future broadband expansion projects
Create planning maps and visual data sets for budgeting, engineering analysis, grant applications, and executive planning
Import, export, and manage GIS, KMZ, and shapefile data for internal teams and external engineering or funding partners
Ensure GIS database accuracy and integrity through field verification, record updates, and ongoing data maintenance
Analyze network capacity, traffic loads, and infrastructure availability to support future construction and expansion planning
Perform field surveys to gather data and validate telecommunications records, staking sheets, and mapping information
Collaborate with engineering, construction, and project management teams on ongoing OSP projects and broadband deployments
Support funding opportunity analysis, broadband grant preparation, and regulatory reporting requirements
Assist with maintaining telecommunications plant records and documentation for aerial and underground facilities
Prepare estimates and planning documentation for broadband construction projects
Coordinate mapping and planning data with contractors, consultants, and government agencies as needed
Maintain familiarity with RUS standards, NESC requirements, and telecommunications industry best practices

Qualifications

3–5 years of GIS, telecommunications planning, engineering support, or broadband infrastructure experience
Strong working knowledge of ESRI ArcGIS required
Experience with CrowdFiber, Google Earth, IntelliCAD, AutoCAD, or other GIS/mapping platforms preferred
Understanding of fiber optic network design, FTTH deployments, and telecommunications infrastructure preferred
Experience managing large data sets and producing accurate GIS reporting and mapping deliverables
Ability to interpret technical drawings, staking sheets, schematics, and engineering documentation
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with minimal supervision
Effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences
Engineering degree or equivalent telecommunications/GIS experience preferred
Valid Texas driver's license required

Why Join HCTC?

HCTC is committed to expanding reliable broadband and telecommunications services across the Texas Hill Country. This position offers the opportunity to directly support broadband growth initiatives that impact rural communities while working with modern GIS and telecommunications technologies in a collaborative environment.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation and benefits
Stable, community-focused organization
Opportunities for professional development and technical growth
Collaborative and forward-thinking work environment
Meaningful work supporting broadband expansion across rural Texas

HCTC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.