Horizontal Directional Driller - Fiber Construction

About the Team

As part of the Horizontal Directional Drilling Team, you will be at the heart of building and maintaining TDS Telecom's state-of-the-art PON/fiber network. With over 50 years of telecom experience, TDS is committed to expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to small, mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural communities across the U.S. Our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance how people live, work, and connect.

About the Role

This full-time, year-round position is designed for individuals who love working with their hands, being outdoors, and making a tangible difference in their community. You will be responsible for installing, testing, troubleshooting, and repairing both buried and aerial fiber facilities to keep customers connected.

Your day-to-day work involves operating specialized construction equipment such as trenchers, backhoes, end loaders, plows, and horizontal directional drills. You will also set pedestals, vaults, and handholes, climb poles and structures, and restore job sites to their original condition. This role offers a flexible schedule and the opportunity to work on real infrastructure that matters, supported by a company with a strong reputation for fiber innovation.

Training and Development

We invest in your growth with comprehensive training tailored to your team assignment. New associates receive instruction in safety protocols, pole climbing, bucket truck operation, and fiber optic basics including fusion splicing and fault detection. For underground teams, training lasts approximately three weeks, with an additional week required for aerial training. Qualified associates also have the opportunity to receive CDL training through our in-house certification program.

Hiring Process

If you meet the required qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply. We understand that experience and skills come in many forms and may not always match exactly what is listed on paper. Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the necessary skills to succeed. If you are self-motivated, detail-oriented, and a strong communicator, we want to hear from you.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.