Fiber Construction Technician

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward‑thinkers who leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities and create a better world through meaningful connections.

Outside Plant Construction Technician I – Helena, MT

This is a full‑time, 40‑hour‑per‑week role with a flexible schedule. Please note that the schedule may vary depending on the specific market.

As a member of our Construction and Service Enablement team at TDS, you’ll play a critical role in building and maintaining cutting‑edge fiber optic networks across urban, suburban, and rural areas. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is a leader in fiber internet innovation, delivering up to 10 gigabit speeds to homes and businesses. This position may be eligible for relocation assistance.

For further information, please contact the Talent Acquisition team.

Perform general construction and maintenance of aerial and buried fiber facilities, ensuring compliance with maps, staking sheets, and safety standards. This includes:

• Operate and maintain construction equipment, including excavation tools, to build and repair outside plant fiber networks.
• Install, splice, test, troubleshoot, and repair fiber optic facilities using specialized equipment.
• Conduct cable fault acceptance tests, locate defective fiber, and resolve issues efficiently.
• Update GIS, maps, and as‑builts; set and label infrastructure such as peds, vaults, and handholes.
• Restore worksites to the original condition upon project completion.
• Train and mentor team members as needed and maintain construction equipment.
• Provide support to field service technicians and complete required documentation promptly.

The functions listed above describe the general nature and level of work performed by associates assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.

• Self‑motivated, driven, ambitious with a desire to improve.
• Attention to detail, commitment to safety protocols, and pride in precision.
• Strong communication skills and ability to thrive in collaborative environments.
• Solid understanding of telecommunication systems and equipment operation.

• 6+ months experience in any combination of customer service, electrical or utility construction, or TDS Telecom Field Services internship – or technical certification (or higher) – or current military service, or prior military service with honorable discharge.
• Must follow the TDS attendance guidelines to meet business needs.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and remain eligible for DOT requirements.

• Ability to obtain a Class A CDL. A current CDL is preferred; TDS will train and certify eligible associates through its in‑house CDL certification program after hire.
• Physical requirements may vary: ability to climb poles, ladders, towers, and other structures; kneel, dig, lift, and pull.
• Must successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course curriculum upon hire.
• Must successfully complete customer‑specific requirements, which may include a background check.
• 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 various/swing shifts as business needs dictate.
• Must be able to operate vehicles with manual transmissions.

Requires frequent use of hands, standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and more than 100 pounds occasionally. Exposure to outdoor weather, high‑risk areas such as high voltage electrical, trenches, and manholes; exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, vibration, wet/humid conditions, toxic chemicals, extreme temperatures, and loud noise.

Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k), Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave, Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating…