University of South Florida
PRIMARY PURPOSE
The Unified Communications Engineer I supports the delivery and maintenance of unified communications systems that enable reliable, secure, and high-quality voice and data connectivity across the organization. This role contributes to the performance, integration, and continuous improvement of communication technologies, while collaborating with internal teams and vendors to ensure seamless system operations. The position also plays a key role in user support, documentation, and the professional development of peers through knowledge sharing and mentorship. ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY
Located in the vibrant and diverse Tampa Bay region of Florida's Gulf Coast, the University of South Florida (USF) is a preeminent state research university with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota‑Manatee. Rated as one of the top places to live in the U.S., Tampa Bay offers a high quality of life, year‑round sunshine, and easy access to top‑rated entertainment. USF is one of the nation's largest public universities, serving more than 50,000 students with an annual budget of $1.8 billion. Over the past five years, USF has been the fastest‑rising university in the nation, public or private, on the U.S. News and World Report's list of best universities, ranking 44th among public universities in America. USF is proud to be an innovating partner within the Tampa Bay region, listed by Forbes as the top emerging tech city in the country. USF Information Technology (USF IT) provides technology services and support for the university. The IT team, led by the Vice President and CIO, provides services such as Administrative Services, Client Support, Communication Services, Teaching and Learning, Analytics and Reporting, Mobile and Web Services, Consulting, Cybersecurity, and Research Technologies. For more information, please visit: Information Technology | University of South Florida (usf.edu). ADDITIONAL INFO FOR APPLICANTS
The selected candidate must have current work authorization in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. USF offers GREAT BENEFITS to full‑time employees!!
Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Paid Vacation Days Paid Sick Days 11 Paid Holidays Various Retirement Options, including 401(k) employer match Tuition Assistance (available for yourself, spouse, partner or dependent) For more information about your total compensation package and other USF benefits, please visit: Work at USF. MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, MIS or other field involving software and analytical training, and four years of IT‑related work experience; OR a bachelor's degree with no specific required field and five years of IT‑related work experience; OR a master's degree and three years of IT‑related work experience; OR a combination of eight years of IT‑related work experience and validated training. Preparation for a relevant IT certification is considered related training. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)
The UC Engineer I role requires expertise in VoIP system installation and configuration, including SBCs and ECBs, with a strong focus on optimizing performance through QoS and resolving bottlenecks. Proficiency in system integration, security protocols, backup strategies, and software maintenance is essential. The engineer must demonstrate advanced troubleshooting and automation skills, as well as the ability to support users, deliver training, maintain documentation, and collaborate effectively across teams. Mentoring peers and leading knowledge‑sharing initiatives are also important for fostering continuous improvement. SOFT SKILLS
Success in this role depends on strong communication skills for supporting users, delivering training, and maintaining clear documentation. The UC Engineer I must excel in problem‑solving and analytical thinking to troubleshoot complex issues and conduct root‑cause analysis. Leadership and mentoring abilities are required to guide team members and foster professional growth, while collaboration is vital for integrating systems across cross‑functional teams. Adaptability, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement through feedback and knowledge sharing are key attributes. INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
The UC Engineer I should have a solid understanding of industry standards and practices related to unified communications and IT infrastructure. This includes familiarity with data protection and privacy regulations, basic compliance frameworks, and general knowledge of telecommunications protocols. Awareness of organizational policies regarding system access, user support, and vendor management is important, as is the ability to apply these principles across various business environments. DEGREE EQUIVALENCY CLAUSE
Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree. Senate Bill 1310 – The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S. SB 1310: Substitution of work experience for postsecondary education requirements. A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed: (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree; (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree; (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree; (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree. Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment. Minimum qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310. COMPATIBILITY AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal‑opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract. FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodations in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process. PRIMARY JOB DUTIES
Systems Installation, Configuration, and Optimization: Perform complex system installations and configurations across multiple platforms, including VoIP environments such as Session Border Controllers (SBCs) and Enterprise Communication Bridges (ECBs). Implement advanced optimization, including QoS optimization for communication systems, to improve overall system speed and efficiency. Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks, ensuring systems run at peak efficiency. Support end‑to‑end system integration tasks, including submitting and completing carrier port orders. Systems Security, Backup, and Recovery: Manage system security protocols that ensure the integrity and protection of organizational data. Oversee backup strategies and ensure data protection meets compliance standards. Software Maintenance and Updates: Manage software maintenance projects, including system‑wide updates, patches, and upgrades. Conduct compatibility testing and proactively manage software dependencies. Conduct regular system health checks and monitor network performance. Monitoring, Troubleshooting, and Automation: Proactively monitor system performance and identify potential areas for improvement. Resolve complex issues, and implement root‑cause analysis to prevent future incidents, minimizing system downtime and implementing expert troubleshooting techniques. Manage automation solutions to improve system reliability and efficiency. User Support, Training, and Documentation: Lead user support efforts, ensuring team members have the necessary resources to resolve issues effectively. Develop and present in‑depth training programs on system usage and best practices. Ensure that user documentation is continuously updated and aligned with system changes. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate VoIP systems with data networks. Coaching and Mentoring: Mentor team members, fostering their professional development. Lead knowledge‑sharing initiatives on advanced systems administration. Incorporate 360‑degree feedback to support team growth by providing actionable insights and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Performs other duties as assigned.
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The Unified Communications Engineer I supports the delivery and maintenance of unified communications systems that enable reliable, secure, and high-quality voice and data connectivity across the organization. This role contributes to the performance, integration, and continuous improvement of communication technologies, while collaborating with internal teams and vendors to ensure seamless system operations. The position also plays a key role in user support, documentation, and the professional development of peers through knowledge sharing and mentorship. ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY
Located in the vibrant and diverse Tampa Bay region of Florida's Gulf Coast, the University of South Florida (USF) is a preeminent state research university with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota‑Manatee. Rated as one of the top places to live in the U.S., Tampa Bay offers a high quality of life, year‑round sunshine, and easy access to top‑rated entertainment. USF is one of the nation's largest public universities, serving more than 50,000 students with an annual budget of $1.8 billion. Over the past five years, USF has been the fastest‑rising university in the nation, public or private, on the U.S. News and World Report's list of best universities, ranking 44th among public universities in America. USF is proud to be an innovating partner within the Tampa Bay region, listed by Forbes as the top emerging tech city in the country. USF Information Technology (USF IT) provides technology services and support for the university. The IT team, led by the Vice President and CIO, provides services such as Administrative Services, Client Support, Communication Services, Teaching and Learning, Analytics and Reporting, Mobile and Web Services, Consulting, Cybersecurity, and Research Technologies. For more information, please visit: Information Technology | University of South Florida (usf.edu). ADDITIONAL INFO FOR APPLICANTS
The selected candidate must have current work authorization in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. USF offers GREAT BENEFITS to full‑time employees!!
Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Paid Vacation Days Paid Sick Days 11 Paid Holidays Various Retirement Options, including 401(k) employer match Tuition Assistance (available for yourself, spouse, partner or dependent) For more information about your total compensation package and other USF benefits, please visit: Work at USF. MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, MIS or other field involving software and analytical training, and four years of IT‑related work experience; OR a bachelor's degree with no specific required field and five years of IT‑related work experience; OR a master's degree and three years of IT‑related work experience; OR a combination of eight years of IT‑related work experience and validated training. Preparation for a relevant IT certification is considered related training. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)
The UC Engineer I role requires expertise in VoIP system installation and configuration, including SBCs and ECBs, with a strong focus on optimizing performance through QoS and resolving bottlenecks. Proficiency in system integration, security protocols, backup strategies, and software maintenance is essential. The engineer must demonstrate advanced troubleshooting and automation skills, as well as the ability to support users, deliver training, maintain documentation, and collaborate effectively across teams. Mentoring peers and leading knowledge‑sharing initiatives are also important for fostering continuous improvement. SOFT SKILLS
Success in this role depends on strong communication skills for supporting users, delivering training, and maintaining clear documentation. The UC Engineer I must excel in problem‑solving and analytical thinking to troubleshoot complex issues and conduct root‑cause analysis. Leadership and mentoring abilities are required to guide team members and foster professional growth, while collaboration is vital for integrating systems across cross‑functional teams. Adaptability, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement through feedback and knowledge sharing are key attributes. INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
The UC Engineer I should have a solid understanding of industry standards and practices related to unified communications and IT infrastructure. This includes familiarity with data protection and privacy regulations, basic compliance frameworks, and general knowledge of telecommunications protocols. Awareness of organizational policies regarding system access, user support, and vendor management is important, as is the ability to apply these principles across various business environments. DEGREE EQUIVALENCY CLAUSE
Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree. Senate Bill 1310 – The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S. SB 1310: Substitution of work experience for postsecondary education requirements. A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed: (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree; (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree; (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree; (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree. Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment. Minimum qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310. COMPATIBILITY AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal‑opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract. FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodations in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process. PRIMARY JOB DUTIES
Systems Installation, Configuration, and Optimization: Perform complex system installations and configurations across multiple platforms, including VoIP environments such as Session Border Controllers (SBCs) and Enterprise Communication Bridges (ECBs). Implement advanced optimization, including QoS optimization for communication systems, to improve overall system speed and efficiency. Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks, ensuring systems run at peak efficiency. Support end‑to‑end system integration tasks, including submitting and completing carrier port orders. Systems Security, Backup, and Recovery: Manage system security protocols that ensure the integrity and protection of organizational data. Oversee backup strategies and ensure data protection meets compliance standards. Software Maintenance and Updates: Manage software maintenance projects, including system‑wide updates, patches, and upgrades. Conduct compatibility testing and proactively manage software dependencies. Conduct regular system health checks and monitor network performance. Monitoring, Troubleshooting, and Automation: Proactively monitor system performance and identify potential areas for improvement. Resolve complex issues, and implement root‑cause analysis to prevent future incidents, minimizing system downtime and implementing expert troubleshooting techniques. Manage automation solutions to improve system reliability and efficiency. User Support, Training, and Documentation: Lead user support efforts, ensuring team members have the necessary resources to resolve issues effectively. Develop and present in‑depth training programs on system usage and best practices. Ensure that user documentation is continuously updated and aligned with system changes. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate VoIP systems with data networks. Coaching and Mentoring: Mentor team members, fostering their professional development. Lead knowledge‑sharing initiatives on advanced systems administration. Incorporate 360‑degree feedback to support team growth by providing actionable insights and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Performs other duties as assigned.
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