Lead Tower Technician- Northern California

TCI | Timberline Communications; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Per diem provided

Lodging provided

Job summary

Timberline Communications Inc. (TCI) is seeking a Lead Tower Technician to serve as the on-site technical lead. You will guide junior technicians, ensure quality installations, and uphold safety standards on complex wireless tower projects.

As a senior tech, you will oversee antenna, line, and equipment installs, while training crew members and coordinating with the Foreman to maintain workflow and site safety. Extensive travel and outdoor work are required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of wireless tower climbing and construction experience.
• Senior or lead technician experience.
• OSHA 10 (OSHA 30 preferred).
• Competent Climber and Rescue Certification.
• CPR/First Aid Certification.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass required screenings.
• Ability to climb towers up to 150+ feet and lift 50+ lbs.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex tower work including antenna, mount, coax, fiber, and radio installations.
• Serve as primary technical resource for crew members and provide hands-on training.
• Ensure installations meet carrier specs and engineering standards; promote safety.
• Inspect work for quality, torque accuracy, and compliance; troubleshoot issues in field.

Skills

Tower climbing experience

Lead technician

Mentoring

Safety-conscious

Education

OSHA 10 (OSHA 30 preferred)

Competent Climber and Rescue Certification

CPR/First Aid Certification

Job description

Timberline Communications Inc. (TCI) is a leading provider of wireless infrastructure and telecommunications construction services. We've built a reputation for delivering precision, safety, and professionalism on every project-from complex rooftop installations to small cell networks and everything in between.

With a team of highly skilled professionals and a laser focus on client success, TCI has become one of the premier wireless infrastructure partners. Whether executing rooftop builds, small cell integrations, or DAS upgrades, we bring clarity, collaboration, and consistent results. Every site. Every time.

Position Overview

The Lead Tower Technician is a senior field technician responsible for performing advanced tower work while serving as the technical lead for the crew. This role bridges hands-on tower construction and on-site leadership by guiding technicians, ensuring quality installations, and supporting safety compliance. The Lead Tower Tech sets the standard for workmanship, productivity, and professionalism on the tower.

Core Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Lead complex tower work including antenna, mount, coax, fiber, and radio installations
• Serve as the primary technical resource for crew members
• Provide hands‑on training and guidance to junior technicians
• Ensure all installations meet carrier specifications and engineering standards

Safety & Compliance

• Follow and actively promote OSHA and company safety policies
• Assist with daily Job Safety Analyses (JSA) and tailgate meetings
• Monitor safe climbing, rigging, and hoisting practices
• Identify and report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately

Field Operations

• Perform and oversee:
  • Antenna and line installations
  • RRU, radio, and equipment cabinet installs
  • Grounding, labeling, and weatherproofing
  • Rigging and hoisting operations
• Inspect work for quality, torque accuracy, and compliance
• Troubleshoot installation issues and propose solutions in the field

Crew Support & Coordination

• Help assign daily tasks and maintain workflow efficiency
• Communicate job progress and issues to the Foreman
• Support crew morale and maintain a professional jobsite environment
• Lead by example in attendance, preparedness, and work ethic

Documentation & Tools

• Assist with job photos, close‑out documentation, and punch lists
• Ensure tools, PPE, and rigging equipment are properly used and maintained
• Report damaged or missing equipment

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of wireless tower climbing and construction experience
• Demonstrated experience as a senior or lead technician
• OSHA 10 (OSHA 30 preferred)
• Competent Climber and Rescue Certification
• CPR/First Aid Certification
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass required screenings
• Ability to climb towers up to 150+ feet and lift 50+ lbs

Preferred

• Carrier certifications (AT&T, Verizon, T‑Mobile, Dish)
• RF Awareness Training
• Experience with 5G, small cell, or microwave systems
• NWSA or equivalent industry certifications

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical knowledge of wireless construction standards
• Clear communication and leadership skills
• Ability to mentor and train others
• Strong problem‑solving and attention to detail
• Dependable, safety‑focused, and team‑oriented
• Ability to work at heights in all weather conditions

Work Environment & Schedule

• Extensive travel may be required
• Outdoor work at heights in varying weather conditions
• Long hours, nights, weekends, and emergency call‑outs may be required
• Per diem and lodging provided when applicable

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb, stand, kneel, and work at heights for extended periods
• Ability to lift, carry, and rig heavy equipment

Timberline Communications Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to assure equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants by prohibiting discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.