What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tower Service Technician position at Great Plains Tower Services, LLC?
Tower Service Technician
Great Plains Tower Services
A Minnkota Power Cooperative Subsidiary
Great Plains Tower Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Minnkota Power Cooperative, is a leading tower service company specializing in the construction, inspection, and maintenance of communication towers for our clients. Based in West Fargo, ND, we serve the upper Midwest with a commitment to excellence and reliability. Our dedicated team of Tower Service Technicians ensures the continued operation of communication infrastructure across the region. Our mission is to ensure the reliability of critical communication infrastructure and meet the evolving needs of the telecommunications industry.
Position Summary
This position involves constructing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing communication towers, antennas, feedlines, and associated equipment. The Technician will perform equipment installations, upgrades, troubleshooting, and inspections. A commitment to safety, technical excellence, and teamwork is essential for success in this role.
The pay range for this position begins at $25.00 per hour. Appropriate compensation will be determined based on a candidate's skills, education, and any previous relevant experience.
Essential Responsibilities
- Tower Construction, Maintenance and Inspection:
- Play an active role in tower construction projects, participating in tower erection and foundation construction.
- Regularly inspect and assess the condition of communication towers, antennas, feedline, and related equipment. Report any issues that could impact functionality, safety, or structural integrity.
- Ensure that all work performed meets quality standards and follows established procedures.
- Equipment Installation and Upgrades:
- Install, replace, or upgrade antennas, transmitters, receivers, lighting systems, and other equipment on communication towers.
- Follow established guidelines and safety protocols to ensure proper installation and alignment.
- Equipment Troubleshooting and Repairs:
- Diagnose and troubleshoot technical problems affecting tower equipment and communication paths.
- Perform necessary repairs and adjustments to restore optimal functionality.
- Safety Compliance:
- Follow strict safety protocols and guidelines when working at elevated heights and in challenging weather conditions.
- Ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn, and safety procedures are followed at all times.
- Ensure secure attachment and stability of all rigging and hoisting equipment.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of tower maintenance activities, repairs, and upgrades.
- Generate reports on findings, actions taken, and recommendations for further improvements.
- Equipment Testing, Calibration, and Maintenance:
- Conduct tests and calibrations to ensure that tower equipment is functioning accurately and optimally.
- Maintain company-provided tools, vehicles, climbing equipment, and other resources.
- Emergency Response:
- Participate in emergency response activities, such as addressing outages or other critical issues affecting network operations.
- In rare cases, be available for after-hours and weekend work..
Job Qualifications
Education and Training
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Must be 18 years of age or older
Knowledge, Skills, and Ability
- Proficiency in climbing towers and working at heights while adhering to safety protocols.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Familiarity with tower equipment, antennas, transmitters, and related technologies.
- Basic understanding of electrical systems, wiring, and connectivity.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills for documentation and reporting.
- Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
Certifications
- Tower climbing certification and training in safety and rescue techniques is preferred.
- Certification in first aid and CPR is preferred.
- Certifications from industry organizations (e.g., NATE, TIRAP) are beneficial.
- Clean driving record and a driver's license with CDL Class A endorsement is required.
- Selected candidate without a CDL Class A endorsement must start the process within six months of hire and obtain the credential within one year of hire.
Physical and Mental Demands
- Physical fitness to climb towers, lift heavy equipment, and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Agility and dexterity to handle tools and equipment while on elevated structures in inclement weather.
- Strong commitment to safety, following safety protocols, and promoting a safety-first culture.
- Adaptability to changing situations and environments.
- Willingness to travel to locations in our service area with some overnight stays.
Benefits
Great Plains Tower Services supports employees through a strong total compensation package that includes a competitive pay and benefits package including:
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Life insurance and AD&D
- Travel Insurance
- Disability insurance
- Paid Time Off and Holidays
Salary : $25