Position Description
The Aerial Laborer supports aerial line construction crews in the installation and maintenance of overhead telecommunications infrastructure. This position performs physically demanding work, assisting in hanging strand, coax, and fiber cable, setting anchors, and ensuring safe and efficient job site operations. The Aerial Laborer plays a key role in site preparation, material handling, and restoration activities while maintaining Universal’s safety and quality standards.
Benefit Offerings
Universal Services is proud to offer a full benefits package that includes:
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100% Employer Paid Basic Group Life and AD&D Insurance.
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$250 HSA contribution to qualifying plans.
Additional Voluntary Benefits Include:
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401(k) with up to a 4% Employer Match
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Medical Insurance
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Dental and Vision Insurance
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Additional Life and AD&D Insurance
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Paid Time Off in Addition to 6 Paid Holidays
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Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
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Personal Accident Insurance
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Legal and Identify Theft Protection
Compensation range reflects Universal Services’ good-faith estimate at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, certifications, skills, market conditions, and internal equity.
Core Responsibilities
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Assist aerial crews in the construction and maintenance of overhead telecommunications systems.
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Hang, lash, and secure strand, coax, and fiber optic cable to poles following customer specifications.
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Operate hand and power tools including impact drills, tampers, and hoists.
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Support bucket truck operations and safely climb poles and ladders up to 50 feet when required.
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Prepare job sites by setting cones, barricades, and signage to maintain a safe work zone.
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Load, unload, and organize materials, tools, and equipment for daily operations.
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Pull aerial cables, lashers, and ropes and assist with underground conduit work when necessary.
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Install ground rods, anchors, and hardware as directed by the Foreman or Lineman.
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Maintain tools, vehicles, and equipment, performing daily inspections and reporting issues.
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Read and interpret job prints, maps, and work orders to complete daily assignments accurately.
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Perform site restoration and cleanup after job completion.
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Support cross-training opportunities within the Underground and Warehouse departments. Follow all Universal safety protocols, traffic control standards, and environmental procedures.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications & Experience
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Valid driver’s license and DOT medical card required.
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Experience with aerial or telecommunications construction preferred.
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Comfortable working at heights, climbing poles, and operating ladders or bucket trucks.
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Familiarity with basic hand and power tools, including mechanical hoists and tampers.
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Ability to read and understand maps, job prints, and blueprints.
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Willingness to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions.
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Strong work ethic and ability to perform physically demanding tasks daily.
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Ability to lift and carry 50–60 lbs. repeatedly throughout the day.
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Commitment to maintaining a safe and organized work environment. Preferred Experience
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Prior experience in aerial or utility construction.
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Electrical Line Worker diploma, certification, or related training.
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Experience with bucket truck operation, pole climbing, or fall-arrest systems.
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Knowledge of coax/fiber construction methods and safety standards.
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Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred but not required.
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Physical Demands · Ability to climb poles and ladders up to 50 feet safely.
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Work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
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Lift and carry 50–60 lbs. regularly.
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Perform tasks requiring standing, walking, bending, and reaching throughout the shift.
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Operate tools and equipment requiring hand, arm, and leg coordination.
Work Environment
Outdoor construction environment with exposure to weather, heights, and traffic.
May involve work near electrical lines and mechanical equipment.
Fast-paced and physically demanding; requires teamwork and attention to safety.
Flexibility to work varied schedules including evenings, weekends, and emergency repairs.
Schedule
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Full-time, non-exempt position.
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Standard schedule: Monday–Friday, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and emergency work as required.
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Overtime may be available based on workload and seasonal demands.
Training & Development Competencies
New Hire Development
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Complete Universal’s onboarding and aerial safety orientation.
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Learn proper use of PPE, fall protection systems, and climbing equipment.
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Receive hands-on training in tool handling, job site setup, and traffic control.
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Demonstrate safe use of ladders, bucket trucks, and pole-climbing techniques.
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Learn to identify aerial hardware, materials, and fiber/coax components.
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Participate in safety meetings and demonstrate understanding of Universal’s safety culture.
Ongoing Development
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Demonstrate proficiency in strand and cable installation under supervision.
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Complete cross-training in underground construction and restoration activities.
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Learn and apply reading of blueprints, maps, and job packets for daily assignments.
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Support splicing and installation crews when needed to expand skill set.
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Develop understanding of troubleshooting and maintenance practices for aerial systems.
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Pursue continued growth toward advancement into Aerial Lineman or Foreman roles.
