JOB
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.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Device Troubleshooting & Maintenance
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Investigates and troubleshoots SocketAPs, Access Points (APs), and Relays to identify communication issues or device failures.
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Replaces or repairs AMI network devices as required to maintain reliable meter communication.
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Works with UIQ and Itron support teams to validate device configurations, communication status, and performance.
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Conducts field inspections of AMI equipment, ensuring correct installation, grounding, signal quality, and connectivity.
System Monitoring
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Uses UIQ and related tools to monitor meter and AMI network device performance.
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Identifies communication failures, low-performing APs/Relays, and network anomalies, and escalates issues as necessary.
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Supports the AMI Operations Manager in producing performance metrics and device status reports.
Testing & Firmware Evaluation
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Supports monitoring of the AMI test farm, validating meter communication, device updates, and system behaviors.
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Evaluates firmware updates for SocketAPs, APs, Relays, and related equipment before deployment to the live environment.
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Documents findings from firmware tests and device evaluations.
Field Operations & Support
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Performs field diagnostics using test equipment, handheld tools, and software applications.
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Assists with system upgrades, device replacements, AMI expansion efforts, and network optimization tasks.
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Coordinates with Customer Service, Metering, Engineering, and IT regarding meter accessibility, replacement needs, or communication issues.
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Responds to outages or emergency events affecting AMI communication devices.
Documentation & Reporting
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Maintains accurate records of device replacements, troubleshooting actions, test results, and field observations.
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Updates installation standards, incident logs, and workflow documentation.
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Follows all cybersecurity, safety, and data-handling procedures.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
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.
