Broadcast Tower Crew Chief

Job Description

Broadcast Tower Crew Chief – Hartford, SD

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced, safety-driven Broadcast Tower Crew Chief to lead field crews in the installation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of broadcast communication infrastructure. This role combines hands-on technical tower work with crew leadership responsibilities, ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

The ideal candidate has extensive tower industry experience, strong leadership abilities, and a solid background in broadcast systems including antennas, transmission lines, rigging, and RF-related work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise daily activities of broadcast tower crews, assigning tasks and monitoring project progress.
• Oversee the installation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of broadcast towers, antennas, transmission lines, waveguide, coax, and related communications equipment.
• Perform and direct rigging operations, antenna installations, line replacements, and structural modifications.
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with OSHA regulations, company policies, client requirements, and industry’s best practices.
• Conduct daily safety meetings, job hazard assessments, and site-specific safety briefings.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, clients, and subcontractors to ensure project schedules and quality standards are met.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including job reports, safety records, material usage, and equipment inspections.
• Troubleshoot technical and operational issues in the field and implement effective solutions.
• Train, mentor, and develop tower technicians while promoting a culture of safety and professionalism.
• Inspect tools, rigging equipment, PPE, and vehicles to ensure compliance and operational readiness.
• Operate company vehicles and ensure proper care of company equipment during travel and project execution.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of tower industry experience, including at least 1 year in a leadership, foreman, or crew chief role.
• Experience with broadcast tower construction, antenna systems, coax installation, RF infrastructure, and rigging operations.
• Strong understanding of tower safety, fall protection, rescue procedures, and rigging best practices.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, tower mapping documents, and technical specifications.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate, train, and manage a team.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record; CDL preferred but not required.
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions in the field.
• Ability to travel up to 80% of the year.
• Must reside within 1.5 hours from Hartford, SD.

Military experience in communications, signal operations, rigging, aviation, telecommunications, or related fields is highly valued.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to climb and work on towers ranging from 100 to 2,000+ feet.
• Ability to work comfortably at extreme heights for extended periods.
• Lift and carry 50+ pounds regularly.
• Perform physically demanding work in all weather conditions.
• Willingness to spend extended periods traveling and working away from home.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
• Overtime opportunities with time-and-a-half pay.
• Daily per diem while traveling.
• Company-paid lodging and travel expenses.
• Company vehicle provided for project travel.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off plus 9 paid holidays.
• Paid training, certifications, and career advancement opportunities.

Join a team that builds and maintains the critical infrastructure connecting communities through broadcast communications. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead crews, travel nationwide, work at extraordinary heights, and develop a rewarding career in the broadcast tower industry.