Plant Service Laborer

Plant Service Laborer

Socket Fiber is one of the fastest growing fiber internet providers in Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas and Tennessee and is dedicated to building and expanding high-speed fiber optic networks that connect communities. Socket Fiber is a company with more than 25 years of experience. We are committed to innovation, quality, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. Join our dynamic team and help shape the future of connectivity!

The Plant Service Laborer is an entry-level field position responsible for providing hands-on support to a small outside plant crew during the installation, repair, and maintenance of underground fiber utilities. This role involves manual labor such as loading, transporting, and positioning tools, materials, and equipment; digging and back filling holes by hand; monitoring the ground and surrounding work area; and assisting the equipment operator as the drill is guided through the bore path, all under the direction of a supervisor.

No prior experience is required, making this an excellent entry point for building a career in outside plant field operations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Load, transport, carry, position tools, materials, and equipment, such as shovels, hand tools, wire, and related supplies to and around the jobsite as directed.
• Dig, excavate, backfill holes and trenches by hand using shovels and other manual tools to support boring, installation, and repair work.
• Assist the equipment operator during drilling and boring operations, including monitoring the ground and surrounding area, spotting, and helping guide equipment as directed.
• Follow all instructions and direction from the supervisor and crew members to complete assigned tasks accurately, safely, and efficiently.
• Keep the jobsite clean, organized, and hazard-free by staging materials, clearing debris, and helping set up and break down the work area each day.
• Consistently follow company policies, Socket safety procedures, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations, and perform other related duties as assigned.

To be considered for this role, you'll need the following required qualifications:

• Previous work experience is not required; this is an entry-level position with on-the-job training provided.
• High school diploma, GED preferred but not required.
• Willingness to learn safe jobsite practices, the safe use of hand tools, and basic field crew coordination.
• Previous experience in labor, construction, landscaping, telecommunications, or outdoor field roles preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

• Delivers clear verbal and written communication across multiple audiences.
• Manages multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Supports cross-functional collaboration to resolve issues and improve workflows.
• Analytical and troubleshooting skills apply to identify root causes and solutions.
• Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and follow-through on assigned tasks.
• Adapts to changing priorities, processes, and business needs with minimal disruption.
• Maintains compliance with company policies, procedures, and established processes.
• Ability to safely use basic hand tools, including shovels, picks, and other general field tools.
• Willingness to quickly learn job-site tools, equipment, processes, and safety procedures through on-the-job training.
• A valid driver's license is preferred; as a class E driver's license is required for driving company vehicles.

Beyond the qualifications, these attributes are what make someone a great fit for our team:

• Extended periods of standing, walking, bending, reaching, climbing, kneeling, and working on uneven terrain outdoors in all weather conditions for the majority of shifts.
• Lift and carry up to 70 pounds regularly; exert 100+ pounds of force occasionally, 50+ pounds frequently, and 20+ pounds constantly to move objects.
• Safely operate hand tools (shovels, picks, wrenches, and similar) and manipulate connectors, fasteners, and wire.
• Work near moving mechanical parts and tolerate vibration, dust, fumes, chemicals, extreme temperatures, and high noise levels, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Safely operate ladders and a…