About Aerial Lineman

Our lives are integrated with internet-enabled devices, yet rarely do we really think of how they continue to function. Streaming services, video games, and online stores are all dependent on the connectivity offered to us by internet service providers who often work with National OnDemand to build and maintain the infrastructure needed for our high-speed internet to function. One of the roles needed to build and maintain large networks is the aerial lineman.

Our aerial linemen play major roles in our Construction Division, a team focused on building or extending network infrastructure projects. Their biggest responsibility involves hanging strand and lashing cable between utility poles.

As an aerial lineman in the fiber construction industry, most of your work is completed with minimal supervision in situations requiring alertness and the ability to make quick decisions.

• Operating a bucket truck as well as other aerial fiber construction equipment
• Understand clearances from the other utilities
• Understanding and ability to properly frame poles according to industry specifications
• Ability to lash/over-lash single and multiple cable bundles of fiber cables
• Ability to read and interpret network prints
• Ability to safely climb poles using gaffs or ladders
• Understand and follow OSHA safety requirements to complete the job(s) safely and efficiently
• Communicate by phone frequently throughout the work day
• Follow direction(s) specifically delivered from crew leader
• Performs other duties as assigned.

These duties and responsibilities are completed primarily outside in all weather conditions. Every National OnDemand aerial lineman safely performs these tasks with knowledge and understanding of all relevant tools, objects, and techniques. For those new to the aerial lineman job, our training program can craft you into an industry-leading professional in no time.

Becoming an aerial lineman at National OnDemand is more than just career development. It’s also personal development. Michael Crabb, Director of Operations, Construction Division says that there are key attributes that are developed as an aerial lineman, the first attribute being a respect for safety while working. Between climbing poles with gaffs and working on the side of the road, the safety of the individual as well as teammates becomes a top priority of every lineman.

This team safety awareness is developed through training and on the job experience, yet it is also a form of empathy and care that is pivotal from the lens of personal development.

The next attribute Michael noted was developing a talent for problem-solving. As problems arise on the job, having the best ratio of time spent with solutions found is important. Taking too long to critically respond to an issue can lead to a myriad of issues and potentially injuries. Problem-solving not only relates to task completion, but also learning from previous errors to prevent future issues, which naturally relates to Michael’s third attribute, planning.

“It’s not just about what’s in front of you, but also what’s ahead of you,” he said, adding that it’s important to always be thinking “five or six steps ahead.” These three skills, although developed through the aerial lineman position, are easily transferrable to day-to-day life scenarios.

Although there are many companies out there to work for, few compare to National OnDemand with regard to the opportunities provided to new linemen. National prides itself on being willing to bring on people with little to no experience in the field and turn them into cutting edge professionals in the telecommunications industry. Additionally, National has a wide range of benefits provided to their employees, including a company vehicle and fuel card, insurance, production bonuses, and more.

You’ll need a strong work ethic, a desire to work with your hands, and the ability to complete some of the basic physical responsibilities listed previously.

National OnDemand also welcomes seasoned professionals to join…