UVA

Wireless Systems Deployment Technician Internship (Student Wage)

Charlottesville, VA Full time

Wireless Systems Deployment Technician

Project: Wireless Network Refresh 2026 
Department: Information Technology Services (ITS) – Network Engineering 
Duration: Summer 2026 (with possible extension into Fall) 
Compensation: $18-20/hr 
Work Hours: Flexible scheduling; target ~20-40 hours/week (or full-time summer availability depending on student preference) 

Position Summary 

The Wireless Network Refresh 2026 project will replace 8,000+ wireless access points (WAPs) across Grounds with next generation hardware. ITS is hiring a team of student interns to assist with the physical installation and replacement of wireless access points in academic, residential, and administrative buildings. ITS is hiring a team of student interns to assist with the physical installation and replacement of wireless access points in academic, residential, and administrative buildings. 

Student interns will play a critical role in ensuring UVA maintains modern, high performance wireless service for students, faculty, staff, and guests. Interns will receive hands-on experience with enterprise networking technology, structured cabling, field operations, and IT infrastructure deployment. Interns will receive hands-on experience with enterprise networking technology, structured cabling, field operations, and IT infrastructure deployment. 

As a part of this internship, students will learn fundamental IT Infrastructure skills, interact with IT leaders, and build a professional skill set that will easily transfer to the workforce. 

Key Responsibilities 

Student interns will work under the supervision of ITS Network Engineering and Network Operations staff. Core responsibilities include: 

Wireless Access Point Installation 

  • Remove legacy wireless access points and install new WAPs. 
  • Mount access points on ceilings, walls, or other fixtures using proper tools and hardware. 
  • Label, document, and inventory installed devices. 

Cabling and Connectivity 

  • Connect APs to existing network cabling (Ethernet PoE). 
  • Verify link status and basic connectivity once installed. 
  • Report cable issues or inaccessible locations to the supervising engineers. 

Site Preparation & Documentation 

  • Assist in surveying rooms to confirm AP locations. 
  • Update documentation, including room numbers, AP serial numbers, and installation notes. 
  • Photograph installation sites where required for engineering records. 

Quality Assurance & Testing 

  • Perform basic signal or connectivity checks as instructed. 
  • Identify and report environmental or physical constraints affecting installation. 

Safety & Compliance 

  • Follow all ITS and UVA safety protocols, especially for ladder use and work in occupied spaces. 
  • Adhere to hazard mitigation guidance when working in mechanical rooms, historic buildings, or restricted locations. 

Other Duties 

  • Occasionally move boxes of AP’s, break down packaging, etc. 

Required Qualifications 

  • Current UVA student (undergraduate or graduate). 
  • Comfortable working on ladders and in a variety of indoor spaces.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to ~25 lbs of equipment and tools.
  • Comfortable working at moderate heights using ladders 
  • Strong attention to detail, especially for labeling and documentation.
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently once trained.
  • Reliable transportation, ability to pass DMV background check.
  • Willing to use mobile apps on a personal device 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Interest in IT infrastructure, networking, systems engineering, or project management. 
  • Familiarity with basic tools (screwdrivers, drills, cable testers). 
  • Coursework or experience related to networking (e.g., CS, ECE, IT classes) is a plus but not required. 

Training & Support Provided 

Interns will receive paid training covering: 

  • Safe ladder use and physical installation best practices. 
  • How to remove, mount, and connect wireless access points. 
  • Use of handheld tools and testing equipment. 
  • Documentation standards and mobile apps used for installation tracking. 
  • Safety protocols for working in sensitive or high traffic environments. 

Students will always have access to ITS staff for questions, troubleshooting, or tasks requiring elevated technical skill. 

What Students Gain 

  • Hands-on experience with enterprise grade networking technology 
  • Exposure to real world IT operations and large-scale infrastructure deployment. 
  • Opportunity to work closely with ITS network engineers. 
  • A strong technical line on a résumé, relevant for IT, engineering, or project driven careers. 
  • The experience of contributing to one of UVA’s most important infrastructure modernization efforts. 

To Apply 

Interested students will submit: 

  • Résumé 
  • Brief statement of interest 
  • Summer availability 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Current UVA student
Experience: None
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.