Aerial Placement Tech

KNOXVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) seeks a System Operations Technician to install, maintain, and repair aerial messenger strands and fiber optic cables, and to support a reliable utility network.

The role requires climbing poles, operating aerial lifts, and strict adherence to safety protocols. A high school diploma and 2 years of fiber/telecom line work are required; OSHA knowledge and TCAT/CDL goals are preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in aerial telecommunications line work.
• Proficiency in aerial work, rigging, and operating aerial lift equipment.
• Working knowledge of telecommunications infrastructure, including messenger strands and required hardware.
• Ability to interpret construction plans, maps, and technical drawings.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, and repair aerial messenger strands and fiber optic cables.
• Perform maintenance on KUB plant, including pole transfers and engineered projects.
• Troubleshoot network issues and restore service promptly.
• Document work activities, materials used, and service records.
• Adhere to company policies and safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
• Coordinate tasks with team members and supervisors to meet project deadlines.

Skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication

Teamwork abilities

Safety-conscious

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Aerial lift equipment

Pole climbing gear

Job description

Classification: System Operations Technician

Work Hours: 40+ hours/week; after hours/weekends

About KUB: KUB is one of the largest public utilities in the country providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric, gas, water, wastewater, and fiber services to more than 520,000 customers in Knoxville and parts of seven surrounding counties. We are looking for employees who want to be a part of a mission-driven organization with strong values that support a skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce.

About the Role: In this role, the key responsibilities involve installing, maintaining, and repairing aerial messenger strands, fiber optic cables, and associated equipment in accordance with KUB and industry standards. Performing maintenance and repairs as needed on KUB plant, including pole transfers, damage claims, and engineered projects. Troubleshooting and diagnosing network issues to promptly restore service. Conducting routine inspections and preventive maintenance to identify and address potential hazards or equipment failures. Collaborating with team members and supervisors to coordinate tasks efficiently and meet project deadlines. Detailed documentation of work activities, including materials used, equipment inspections, and service records. Adherence to company policies, procedures, and safety protocols is paramount, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and colleagues.

Qualifications

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to bend, stoop, lift, and work where conditions are cramped, and head space is limited. Must be able to work on structures up to 50 ft high. Requires above normal visual and mental alertness frequently. Must be able to climb steps and work from ladders. Must be able to climb utility poles and be willing to become TCAT certified and obtain a CDL.

Note: The physical demands described above are intended to relate to the approximate physical demands of the classification.

Minimum Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent

Minimum of 2 years experience in aerial telecommunications line work, preferably in a fiber optic environment

Proficiency in aerial work, rigging, and operating aerial lift equipment

Working knowledge of telecommunications infrastructure, including communications messenger strands and required hardware

Ability to interpret construction plans, maps, and technical drawings

Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

Valid driver's license

Ability to work at heights and in various weather conditions

Please note that due to job responsibilities, KUB does not provide immigration sponsorship for and/or based on this position.

Preferred Requirements

5 years of experience in aerial telecommunications line work, preferably in a fiber optic environment

2 years of experience working on KUB Fiber system

2 years of experience in climbing poles

Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations and practices

Experience with telecommunications industry standards and regulations

Selection Process

About the Selection Process:

Phase 1 - Apply online at www.kub.org

Phase 2 - Experience, training, and education evaluation

Phase 3 - Interview with department representatives

Phase 4 - Written, performance, and behavioral exercises

Phase 5 - Background Investigation

Phase 6 - Physical assessment and/or drug screen*

*KUB is part of the Tennessee Drug Free Workplace Program

If special accommodations are needed at any phase of the selection process, please notify Human Resources in advance.

Knoxville Utilities Board is an Equal Opportunity Employer