DAS Solutions Architect

Job Title:
DAS Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator Department:
WTS Reports To:
Division Manager Location:
National So Job Type:
Full-Time

Position Overview:

The DAS Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator is responsible for designing and estimating Distributed Antenna System (DAS) solutions for clients across various industries. This role combines technical expertise with creativity to design effective, scalable, and cost-efficient DAS solutions that meet client requirements. The ideal candidate will have experience with RF design, DAS system architecture, and estimating costs associated with system implementation. The Solutions Architect / Designer / Estimator will also collaborate with project managers, engineers, and vendors to ensure smooth project execution.

Key Responsibilities:

1. DAS System Design and Architecture:

o Lead the design and development of DAS solutions, ensuring they meet client needs and industry standards.

o Create comprehensive DAS designs, including RF designs, system layout, coverage plans, and component specifications.

o Design DAS systems that optimize coverage, capacity, and performance based on the site environment and client requirements.

o Review customer requirements and site conditions to determine appropriate DAS configuration (e.g., passive/active, fiber or coax, etc.).

o Use design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD, or similar) to produce system layout drawings, schematics, and as-built documentation.

2. Estimation and Costing:

o Prepare accurate estimates for DAS projects, including equipment, labor, materials, and installation costs.

o Analyze client requirements and provide estimates based on the system design and implementation complexities.

o Develop detailed and competitive proposals for DAS solutions, ensuring that costs are aligned with client budgets while maintaining system performance.

o Work closely with procurement teams to evaluate pricing and negotiate costs for system components and materials.

o Prepare pricing proposals and change orders for clients and ensure profitability while meeting client expectations.

3. Collaboration with Stakeholders:

o Work with project managers, installation teams, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure designs can be implemented effectively within the project constraints.

o Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to source the required DAS components and materials.

o Provide technical support to project managers and installation teams during the implementation phase to ensure proper execution of the design.

o Present DAS solutions to clients and provide recommendations based on site conditions, technology requirements, and budget constraints.

4. Client Engagement and Requirements Gathering:

o Conduct site surveys and assessments to understand client requirements and gather data necessary for system design.

o Meet with clients to discuss design options, system requirements, and potential solutions based on business needs.

o Customize designs based on customer needs, which may include voice, data, and emergency services coverage.

o Provide technical explanations and answer client questions to ensure a clear understanding of the DAS solutions being proposed.

5. System Validation and Testing:

o Ensure that the proposed DAS designs align with building codes, safety regulations, and client specifications.

o Work with engineers to validate designs through simulations and test plans to confirm the system's functionality before implementation.

o Perform post-installation testing to ensure the system performs as expected and that coverage is optimal.

6. Documentation and Reporting:

o Maintain accurate documentation for all DAS designs, estimates, and proposals.

o Prepare detailed system drawings, wiring diagrams, and equipment specifications for client review and approval.

o Provide clients with reports on design performance, including coverage maps, capacity estimates, and detailed cost breakdowns.

o Keep records of all project estimates, proposals, change orders, and final system documentation.

7. Continuous Improvement and Research:

o Stay up-to-date with DAS technologies, industry standards, and emerging trends to ensure solutions are innovative and competitive.

o Collaborate with senior engineers and other team members to improve design processes, methodologies, and tools.

o Identify opportunities to optimize DAS designs for efficiency and cost savings while maintaining high-quality standards.

Qualifications:

Education:

o Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, RF Engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

o 5+ years of experience in DAS design, RF engineering, or a related field, with at least 2 years specifically in designing and estimating DAS systems.

o Proven experience with DAS design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD, or similar).

o Strong understanding of RF principles, wireless communication technologies, and DAS components (e.g., antennas, repeaters, cabling, etc.).

o Experience with estimating project costs, including labor, materials, and system components.

o Knowledge of industry standards, codes, and regulations related to DAS systems.

Skills and Abilities:

o Proficiency in DAS design software (e.g., iBwave, AutoCAD).

o Strong analytical skills to assess customer requirements and determine the optimal DAS solution.

o Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to present and explain complex technical concepts to clients.

o Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

o Attention to detail and ability to produce accurate estimates and system designs.

o Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external vendors to ensure project success.

Certifications:

o Professional certifications in RF Engineering, DAS Design, or Telecommunications (e.g., iBwave Certified, Cisco, or similar) are a plus.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to travel to client sites for site surveys, inspections, and meetings as required.

Ability to conduct site assessments and walk through areas requiring DAS installation, including rooftop or underground spaces.