Outside Plant Construction Technician

Overview

At TDS Telecom, we connect people through cutting‑edge fiber internet technology and strengthen communities. Ready to make an impact? Join us as an Outside Plant Construction Technician I in Butte, Montana.

You will receive in‑house training to obtain a Class A CDL, pole climbing, bucket truck operation, directional drill rigs, mini excavators, trenchers, locators, fusion splicing, fault detection, OTDRs, and other advanced testing equipment. Training duration varies by team assignment: 3‑week underground training plus an optional 1‑week aerial training.

• Full‑time, 40‑hour per week with a flexible schedule. Schedule may vary depending on the specific market.

As part of the Construction & Service Enablement team, you’ll help build and maintain fiber optic networks that connect communities nationwide. With over 50 years of experience, TDS leads in fiber internet innovation, delivering up to 10 Gigabit speeds. Position may be eligible for relocation assistance. Sign‑on bonus of $5,000 (terms apply).

What We’re Looking For:

• Self‑Motivated: Driven, ambitious, and always looking for ways to improve.
• Attention to Detail: Follow safety protocols and ensure precision in measurements and assemblies.
• Teamwork & Communication: Strong communication skills and thrive in collaborative environments.

• Conduct general construction tasks in various weather conditions, adhering to safety standards.
• Aid in transporting construction equipment to and from the worksite.
• Assist with and execute the installation of aerial and buried fiber based on maps, staking sheets, and locate markings.
• Operate hand tools, cable locators, and testing equipment as needed.
• Install and set enclosures, including buried and aerial vaults, pedestals, and handholes.
• Climb poles, ladders, towers, and other structures as required, utilizing a bucket truck when necessary.
• Label and mark fiber optic and copper facilities accurately.
• Utilize dispatching applications and relevant tools for project coordination.
• Support fiber splicing, repairs, and outside‑plant maintenance activities.
• Restore landscapes to original condition upon project completion.

Additional duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• 6+ months experience in customer service, electrical or utility construction, a technical certification, current or prior honorable military service.
• Follow TDS attendance guidelines.
• Valid driver’s license; eligible for DOT requirements.

• Must obtain a Class A CDL; current CDL is preferred at hire, but training will be provided.
• Physical ability to climb poles, ladders, towers; kneel, dig, lift, and pull.
• Upon hire, successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course.
• Background check may be required by the customer.
• Horizontal directional drilling experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of telecommunication products and services.
• Proven organizational skills and ability to multi‑task.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Willingness to work overtime and variable shifts as business needs dictate.
• Ability to operate vehicles with manual transmissions.

Frequent physical activity: standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds (occasionally >100 pounds). Vision requirements include close, distance, color, and depth perception. Work conditions may involve outdoor weather, attics, crawl spaces, high‑risk areas such as high voltage zones, trenches, and manholes. Exposure to heavy equipment, fumes, vibration, extreme temperatures, and loud noise is common.

Associates working 20+ hours per week receive:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Associates working 30+ hours per week additionally receive

• Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability
• TDS Service Discounts
• Education Assistance
• Paid Volunteer Time

All associates can participate in Associate Resource Groups.

TDS is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity. All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

Hourly pay ranges from $22.62 to $33.94, depending on skills, qualifications, and location. Job IDs: 2025‑28320 (Technician I), 2025‑28322 (Technician II), 2025‑28321 (Technician III). Separate postings outline minimum requirements for each level.

Butte, Montana.