Mainline Construction Technician

Socket Fiber; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Bonus potential

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401k with match

Free fiber service

Job summary

Socket Fiber is seeking a hardworking Mainline Construction Worker to support underground telecom projects in Missouri. You will perform utility locates, install conduit, and operate HDD bore rigs as part of a fast-moving field crew.

You will review tasks, gather equipment, and assist with locate work, then help expose utilities and build high-quality fiber infrastructure. A strong safety mindset and ability to work outdoors in varying weather are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in telecom or underground utilities
• Hands-on utility locate experience
• Ability to operate HDD bore rigs
• Ability to read construction drawings
• Physically able to perform outdoor labor

Responsibilities

• Perform utility locates before excavation
• Operate or assist HDD bore rigs
• Install mainline conduit, handholes, pedestals
• Support trenching, plowing, potholing, excavation
• Read and interpret plans and locate markings
• Expose utilities using safe digging techniques
• Set up HDD work zones and equipment
• Load, unload, and maintain tools and equipment
• Backfill and restore work areas per spec
• Follow all safety and DOT requirements
• Collaborate with crew to meet builds on schedule

Skills

Utility locates

HDD operation

Conduit installation

Tools

HDD bore equipment

Mini-excavators

Skid steers

Job description

We are looking for a hardworking and skilled Mainline Construction Worker to support underground telecom construction projects. This role requires experience performing utility locates, installing conduit, and operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) bore equipment. If you enjoy hands‑on field work and being part of a fast-moving construction crew, this role is a great fit.

A Day in the Life

You’ll start your day reviewing jobsite tasks, gathering equipment, and assisting with utility locates to ensure safe digging. Throughout the day, you’ll help install conduit, expose existing utilities, operate (or assist with) HDD bore rigs, and support the crew in building high-quality telecom infrastructure. Your work directly impacts safe and efficient fiber‑optic installation.

What You’ll Do

• Performing accurate utility locates using locating equipment before excavation
• Operating or assisting with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) bore equipment
• Installing mainline conduit, handholes, pedestals, and related telecom infrastructure
• Supporting trenching, plowing, potholing, and excavation work
• Reading and interpreting construction plans, prints, and locate markings
• Safely exposing existing underground utilities using dig‑safe techniques
• Setting up and maintaining HDD work zones, drill paths, and equipment
• Loading, unloading, and maintaining tools, machinery, and materials
• Backfilling and restoring work areas to required specifications
• Following all safety and DOT requirements on job sites
• Working closely with crew members, operators, and supervisors to complete builds on schedule

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in telecom, underground utilities, or construction fieldwork
• Hands‑on experience performing utility locates
• Ability to operate or assist with HDD bore rigs
• Knowledge of underground utility safety procedures and dig laws
• Ability to read and follow construction drawings and utility maps
• Strong work ethic with the ability to perform physical labor outdoors
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly
• Ability to walk, bend, kneel, dig, and work in trenches
• Ability to operate construction tools and equipment safely
• Ability to stand for long periods and perform repetitive physical tasks
• Valid driver’s license; and the ability to obtain a Class E license if offered

What Will Help You Stand Out

• Previous telecom mainline or fiber construction experience
• Experience operating HDD bore rigs independently
• Experience with mini‑excavators, skid steers, or plows

Desired Attributes

• Strong safety mindset
• Team player with a positive, can‑do attitude
• Dependable and committed to high‑quality work
• Good communication and situational awareness
• Ability to adapt to changing jobsite conditions
• Takes pride in completing work accurately and efficiently

Why Join Socket Fiber?

At Socket Fiber, we’re redefining what it means to connect communities. We share a mission-driven culture focused on bringing high‑speed internet to areas that need it most. We’re not just selling a service—we’re providing access, opportunity, and real change. Socket Fiber offers a culture where employee strengths are highlighted and recognized.

A few of the key ways we strive to make employees feel valued include:

• Competitive pay + bonus potential or performance-based commission
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and 401k with match
• Free coaching/counseling for employees & families
• Free fiber service (if available in your area)
• Tuition reimbursement for personal and professional growth
• Community engagement opportunities
• Culture that values results, effort, and integrity

Our Core Values

• Respect: Toward all customers, communities, property, and coworkers.
• Advocacy: In-person, online, or by phone—we go beyond support to serve as customer advocates.
• Transparency: In our commitments, service experiences, and business relationships.
• Progress: Growth is proof of our dedication to improving lives and communities.
• Winning: Every conversation is a chance to gain a customer for life.

Salary And Benefits Commensurate With Experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

This employer uses E-Verify.

This role is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

This role is not eligible for relocation.