Job Summary:
Telecommunications Technician II, also referred to as the Top Hand, is a senior-level role responsible for performing complex tower construction, repair, and maintenance projects. This position requires advanced technical expertise and the ability to take charge as the leader on the tower, ensuring the successful execution of high-stakes tasks at elevated heights. While not the overall site leader, the Top Hand plays a critical role in guiding team members during tower operations, ensuring compliance with technical and safety standards, and fostering teamwork. Holds certifications in climbing/rescue, rigging, PPE usage, and specialized equipment operations.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead and execute complex tower construction and maintenance activities on-site, including assembling and erecting towers, installing antennas, and optimizing telecom systems at height.
- Serve as the point leader on the tower, providing guidance and instruction to team members to ensure safety, efficiency, and task completion.
- Oversee advanced installation tasks, including grounding, coax/fiber handling, Capstan hoist operations, and connector installation, while adhering to strict technical and safety guidelines.
- Conduct and supervise testing activities, such as sweep testing, Passive Intermodulation (PIM) testing, and fiber testing, to validate system performance and reliability.
- Maintain OSHA regulations and company-specific EHS protocols on the tower, ensuring safety compliance for all team members.
- Provide mentorship and on-the-job training to less experienced technicians, fostering skill development and building a collaborative team environment.
- Operate specialized rigging equipment and tools, such as cranes and hoists, for advanced lifting and positioning tasks.
- Interpret and validate construction drawings, RFDS, and technical documentation to ensure accuracy in tower installations.
- Collaborate with the Foreman and project stakeholders to address challenges and implement efficient solutions during tower operations.
Minimum Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or GED.
- 5+ years of telecommunications construction experience, including leadership roles.
- Valid Drivers License and the ability to maintain DOT requirements
Preferred and Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
- NWSA TTT2 certification required.
- OSHA30 certification required
- First Aid AED/CPR certification required
- Ability to obtain all required certifications such as, but not limited to:
o RF awareness, competent climber, competent rescuer, ANSI 10.48 competent rigging, fall protection awareness, crane spotter/signal person, capstan hoist operator, etc.
Skills Required:
- Advanced proficiency in interpreting construction drawings, RF data sheets, and technical documentation.
- Strong leadership abilities to guide team members effectively during tower operations.
- Advanced technical skills in troubleshooting, system optimization, and equipment testing.
- Clear communication skills to relay instructions, articulate project needs, and document progress accurately.
- Exceptional problem-solving skills, particularly in high-pressure, elevated work environments.
Direct/Indirect Supervisory Responsibility:
- Acts as a leader on the tower and on site and provides mentorship to junior team members.
Work Environment/Physical Demands/Travel Required:
- Ability to work in all weather conditions except for unsafe or extreme weather conditions.
- Desire and ability to climb structures to heights in excess of 300’ while carrying loads in excess of 50 pounds.
- Travel is required 50% of the time
AAP/EEO Statement
NextEdge provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, NextEdge complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
NextEdge expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of NextEdge employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
