Carrier Relations Specialist

Job Summary: As a Carrier Relations Specialist, you will execute strategies in collaboration with cross-functional teams and partner carriers to increase sales revenue and support Midco’s internal off-net network and internet services. Leverage industry and technical expertise to ensure off-net and internet solutions are delivered on time, meet technical specifications, and are secured at fair market pricing while optimizing cost and performance. Responsibilities: Maintain relationships with partner carriers providing services to support Midco customer contracts and the internal Midco network. Negotiate pricing and contract terms with partner carriers for off‑net circuits, internet, long‑haul, and dark fiber to support sales proposals and internal network needs. Continually monitor the base of contracted services to identify opportunities for optimization and cost reduction. Maintain contracting activities with partner carriers, including new contracts, timely renewals, and maintaining centralized, accessible contract records. Maintain vendor escalation and contact records to support provisioning, maintenance, billing, and issue resolution. Develop preferred carrier partnerships aligned with company strategy, while maintaining existing relationships through regular communication and industry engagement. Evaluate partner carrier performance using defined criteria related to service quality, performance, and pricing. Maintain the accuracy of Midco’s off‑net circuit ID database. Ensure ENNIs are established for all off‑net circuits and that documentation is accurate and maintained within the ENNI database. Order and appropriately document cross connects from carrier hotels to support customer contracts and the internal Midco network. Manage service disconnection requests with partner carriers. Communicate disconnect activity to appropriate internal and external stakeholders, update databases, and coordinate logistics with cross‑functional teams. Collaborate with internal network teams to plan and support existing and future capacity needs. Review, and resolve billing issues related to carrier invoices, ensuring alignment with contract terms. Assist in research and resolution efforts for carrier‑related issues. Work with Partner Carriers to request service level credits as need based on missed service level commitments. Model Midco’s mission, vision, values, ethos, and Leadership Success Drivers, and inspire others to do the same. Ensure customer privacy by adhering to Midco’s privacy guidelines while actively following Midco policies and procedures. Maintain reliable and predictable attendance as required by the position. Perform other duties as assigned. Note: Management reserves the right to assign or reassign functions and responsibilities to this job description at any time. Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent (GED). Demonstrated experience (3+ years) in telecommunications or carrier/vendor management, with direct involvement in procuring, managing, or supporting network services (offnet circuits, internet, transport, or fiber solutions). Ability to independently manage vendor or carrier relationships, including negotiating pricing, contract terms, or service delivery expectations. Working knowledge of telecommunications network components and service delivery, including concepts such as EVCs, DIAs, cross connects, ENNI, and the management of circuits throughout their full lifecycle (ordering, provisioning, testing, maintenance, and disconnect). Experience reviewing and interpreting contracts, pricing structures, and billing, with the ability to identify discrepancies and drive resolution. Ability to evaluate vendor performance and make recommendations that balance cost, quality, and operational impact. Basic understanding of internet and data network design, including private‑line interfaces and handoffs. Strong communication (written, verbal, and listening), organizational, business, and computer skills. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Telecommunications, Information Systems, or a related discipline. Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is moderate. Work is primarily performed in a professional office environment and/or remote work setting, depending on business needs. May be required to work in excess of 40 hours per week and outside normal business hours, such as holidays, evenings, and weekends, as business demands. Physical Demands: May occasionally be required to reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, or crouch. May be required to remain in a seated position for extended periods. May occasionally lift or move items such as materials, equipment, or supplies. Heavy keyboard/mouse usage required with repetitive movements. Mental Demands: Demonstrate sustained attention to detail and concentration when reviewing contracts, billing, technical documentation, and database records. Communicate complex information, expectations, and updates clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with internal teams and external carrier partners. Effectively manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and focus in a fast‑paced, evolving environment. Remain calm, professional, and solution‑oriented when responding to changing business needs, service issues, or high‑pressure situations. Apply strong analytical thinking and sound judgment to evaluate pricing, performance, contractual terms, and operational data in support of informed decision‑ Work productively both independently and in collaboration with cross‑functional teams to meet operational, financial, and strategic objectives. Consistently apply policies, procedures, and guidelines while exercising discretion and judgment in negotiations, escalations, and problem resolution.