Horizontal Directional Driller III - Outside Plant Construction
TDS Telecommunications LLC, Missoula, MT, United States
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. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?
Position Summary As an
Outside Plant Construction Technician III , you will build and maintain our state‑of‑the‑art PON/fiber network, installing buried and aerial fiber facilities, operating trenchers, backhoes, end loaders, and plows, and ensuring accurate installation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair.
Training You will receive in‑house training to obtain a Class A CDL, attend safety training including pole climbing and bucket trucks, and learn the use of construction equipment (directional drill rigs, mini excavators, trenchers, locators) as well as fiber‑optic techniques (fusion splicing, fault detection, OTDRs, and other advanced testing equipment). The training program lasts 3 weeks for underground teams with an optional additional week for aerial training.
This position is eligible for a $5,000 sign‑on bonus (payout terms apply).
Schedule 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. This position may be eligible for relocation assistance.
Why Join Us? Playing a critical role in building and maintaining cutting‑edge fiber optic networks that connect communities nationwide, you’ll be part of a collaborative environment where your skills in construction, safety, and technology directly impact the future of connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural areas.
What We’re Looking For
Self‑Motivated:
Driven, ambitious, and always looking for ways to improve.
Attention to Detail:
Committed to following safety protocols and taking pride in precision.
Teamwork and Communication:
Strong communication skills and thriving in collaborative environments.
Technical Proficiency:
Solid understanding of telecommunication systems and equipment operation.
What You’ll Do
Perform general construction and maintenance of aerial and buried fiber facilities.
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 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 are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by associates assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list; other duties may be assigned.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
2+ years of construction equipment operation utilizing underground and aerial equipment such as directional drills, trenchers, backhoes, or bucket trucks—or current 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.
Other Qualifications
Ability to obtain a Class A CDL; a current CDL is preferred at hire, but TDS will train and certify eligible associates.
Physical requirements: climbing poles, ladders, towers; kneeling, digging, lifting, and pulling.
Must successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course curriculum.
Must successfully complete customer‑specific requirements, including a background check.
Preferred 1+ year experience in constructing or installing fiberoptic cable or other underground/overhead utilities.
Horizontal directional drilling experience preferred.
Understanding of telecommunication products and services.
Proven organizational skills and ability to multi‑task.
May require occasional travel.
Willingness to work overtime and varying shifts as business needs dictate.
Physical Demands and Work Environment This role requires frequent standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and handling equipment, with the ability to lift/move up to 50 pounds regularly and over 100 pounds occasionally. Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus. Work conditions include outdoor weather, attics, crawl spaces, high‑risk areas (high voltage, trenches, manholes), and mechanical equipment. Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, fumes, and loud noise is expected.
Benefits Associates Scheduled to Work 20+ Hours Per Week
Medical Coverage
Dental Coverage
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 of employment)
Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs
Associates Working 30+ Hours Per Week
Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability
TDS Service Discounts
Education Assistance
Paid Volunteer Time
All associates will also have the opportunity to participate in Associate Resource Groups, encouraging community and professional development.
Pay Transparency The pay for this position ranges from $25.13 to $37.69 per hour. The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role‑specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.
Pay Range (Hr./Yr.):
$27.62/Hr. – $41.42/Hr.
EEO Statement At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value differences in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We consider all qualified applicants 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.
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Position Summary As an
Outside Plant Construction Technician III , you will build and maintain our state‑of‑the‑art PON/fiber network, installing buried and aerial fiber facilities, operating trenchers, backhoes, end loaders, and plows, and ensuring accurate installation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair.
Training You will receive in‑house training to obtain a Class A CDL, attend safety training including pole climbing and bucket trucks, and learn the use of construction equipment (directional drill rigs, mini excavators, trenchers, locators) as well as fiber‑optic techniques (fusion splicing, fault detection, OTDRs, and other advanced testing equipment). The training program lasts 3 weeks for underground teams with an optional additional week for aerial training.
This position is eligible for a $5,000 sign‑on bonus (payout terms apply).
Schedule 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. This position may be eligible for relocation assistance.
Why Join Us? Playing a critical role in building and maintaining cutting‑edge fiber optic networks that connect communities nationwide, you’ll be part of a collaborative environment where your skills in construction, safety, and technology directly impact the future of connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural areas.
What We’re Looking For
Self‑Motivated:
Driven, ambitious, and always looking for ways to improve.
Attention to Detail:
Committed to following safety protocols and taking pride in precision.
Teamwork and Communication:
Strong communication skills and thriving in collaborative environments.
Technical Proficiency:
Solid understanding of telecommunication systems and equipment operation.
What You’ll Do
Perform general construction and maintenance of aerial and buried fiber facilities.
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 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 are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by associates assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list; other duties may be assigned.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
2+ years of construction equipment operation utilizing underground and aerial equipment such as directional drills, trenchers, backhoes, or bucket trucks—or current 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.
Other Qualifications
Ability to obtain a Class A CDL; a current CDL is preferred at hire, but TDS will train and certify eligible associates.
Physical requirements: climbing poles, ladders, towers; kneeling, digging, lifting, and pulling.
Must successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course curriculum.
Must successfully complete customer‑specific requirements, including a background check.
Preferred 1+ year experience in constructing or installing fiberoptic cable or other underground/overhead utilities.
Horizontal directional drilling experience preferred.
Understanding of telecommunication products and services.
Proven organizational skills and ability to multi‑task.
May require occasional travel.
Willingness to work overtime and varying shifts as business needs dictate.
Physical Demands and Work Environment This role requires frequent standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and handling equipment, with the ability to lift/move up to 50 pounds regularly and over 100 pounds occasionally. Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus. Work conditions include outdoor weather, attics, crawl spaces, high‑risk areas (high voltage, trenches, manholes), and mechanical equipment. Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, fumes, and loud noise is expected.
Benefits Associates Scheduled to Work 20+ Hours Per Week
Medical Coverage
Dental Coverage
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 of employment)
Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs
Associates Working 30+ Hours Per Week
Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability
TDS Service Discounts
Education Assistance
Paid Volunteer Time
All associates will also have the opportunity to participate in Associate Resource Groups, encouraging community and professional development.
Pay Transparency The pay for this position ranges from $25.13 to $37.69 per hour. The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role‑specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.
Pay Range (Hr./Yr.):
$27.62/Hr. – $41.42/Hr.
EEO Statement At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value differences in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We consider all qualified applicants 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr