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Buried Drop Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Installations may require utilization of MOCA technology * Installations may require running or reusing CAT5 or COAX * Installations may include CAT5 buried drop up to 50ft. * Configuration of ...

Drop Installation Tech I

Spokane, WA

$21 - $27.75/hr

The Drop Installation Technician I performs the general labor associated with the installation of ... Install and/or sets enclosures (buried and aerial) vaults, pedestals, and handholes. * Mark/label ...

Drop Installation Tech I

Post Falls, ID

$20.25 - $27/hr

The Drop Installation Technician I performs the general labor associated with the installation of ... Install and/or sets enclosures (buried and aerial) vaults, pedestals, and handholes. * Mark/label ...

Drop Installation Tech I

Spokane, WA

$21 - $27.75/hr

The Drop Installation Technician I performs the general labor associated with the installation of ... Install and/or sets enclosures (buried and aerial) vaults, pedestals, and handholes. * Mark/label ...

Drop Installation Tech I

Spokane, WA · On-site

$22.62 - $33.94/hr

The Drop Installation Technician I performs the general labor associated with the installation of ... Install and/or sets enclosures (buried and aerial) vaults, pedestals, and handholes. * Mark/label ...

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Buried Drop Tech information

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$11

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$31

How much do buried drop tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for buried drop tech in the United States is $20.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Buried Drop Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Buried Drop Technician, you need a solid understanding of telecommunications systems, basic electrical knowledge, and experience with outdoor installation work, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cable locators, hand tools, and possibly specialized certifications such as OSHA safety training is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication help technicians work safely and efficiently, often in coordination with other crews or directly with customers. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, reliable underground cable installations and minimizing service disruptions.

What is the difference between Buried Drop Tech vs Cable Installer?

AspectBuried Drop TechCable Installer
CertificationsBasic electrical and safety certificationsSame as Buried Drop Tech, often includes OSHA training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, underground, residential or commercial sitesIndoor and outdoor, installation sites, sometimes underground
Job FocusInstalling and maintaining underground cable dropsInstalling various types of cables, including underground and aerial
Industry UsageTelecommunications, cable TV, internet providers

While both roles involve cable installation, Buried Drop Tech specializes in underground cable drops, requiring specific skills for underground work, whereas Cable Installers may handle a broader range of cable types and installation environments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is a Buried Drop Tech?

A Buried Drop Tech, short for Buried Drop Technician, is a professional responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing underground telecommunications cables that connect service providers to customers' homes or businesses. They primarily work with fiber optic or coaxial cables, ensuring proper placement and protection of these lines to prevent service disruptions. Their duties include locating existing utilities, trenching or boring, placing cables, and restoring the worksite after installation. This role requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by a Buried Drop Technician in the field, and how can they be managed?

Buried Drop Technicians often encounter obstacles such as difficult terrain, adverse weather conditions, and locating underground utilities that may not be accurately mapped. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to safety protocols, and effective use of detection equipment. Working closely with team members and maintaining clear communication with property owners and supervisors can also help ensure installations are completed efficiently and safely.
More about Buried Drop Tech jobs
What states have the most Buried Drop Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Buried Drop Tech jobs include:

Install Fiber Technician- TRAINING AVAILABLE

Afl Telecommunications Llc

San Antonio, TX

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $1B in revenue, and employ more than 5,800 associates worldwide.  At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

ITC Service Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of AFL. Founded in 1999 and provides managed services and workforce solutions for the nationwide planning design, construction, installation and maintenance of voice, data, and video networks. 

AFL and ITC were built and are operated on similar core values and philosophies. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers.

Let us connect you to your next career opportunity!

Job Overview:
Fiber Installation Technician (Cable Installer) work both inside and outside the home and are responsible for the installation and customer experience of the new Broadband integrated digital TV, high speed Internet and voice services.

Company Provides:
Vehicle, Gas, Cell Phone, Tablet, Uniform

A new service order may include:

  • Connecting fiber optic jumpers and drops (AERIAL, BURIED AND PLENUM)
  • May require running of temporary fiber drop in a manner that does not pose a safety hazard to the public
  • Splicing of fiber drop connectors
  • Installation of ONT and power supplies
  • Installations may require running or reusing COAX or CAT5 wiring
  • Installations may require burying CAT5/COAX up to 50 ft.
  • Verification of service

Internet Service:

  • Installation of Internet hubs and routers
  • Installations may require utilization of MOCA technology
  • Installations may require running or reusing CAT5 or COAX
  • Installations may include CAT5 buried drop up to 50ft.
  • Configuration of customer-owned computers
  • Educating customer about Internet access
  • Verification of service

If Video Service is ordered:

  • Installations include running COAX cable to TV Boxes
  • Running CAT5E cable from routers to network interface modules
  • Taking DB loss readings at all splitter points and terminated ends
  • Initializing set up box for activation on fiber network
  • Programming of remote controls
  • Educating customer on video products and services

Job Requirements:

  • Valid state driver’s license and non-negligent driving record.
  • Meet safety restriction weight limit of 275 lbs.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 100 lbs.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours with the understanding that workdays can be in excess of normal hours and some weekend and holiday work may be required.
  • Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug/alcohol screen.
  • Ability to visually perceive differences in wire and cable colors.
  • Ability to complete on-the-job and/or classroom training in order to remain competitive in the telecommunications field.
  • Ability to be “on call” and “on standby” in relation to the workload.


Special Requirements:

  • Ability to demonstrate knowledge of computer operating systems (i.e., MS 98SE, 2000, XP and above).
  • Experience cabling various electronic components (e.g., modems, routers, TVs, stereo systems and home entertainment systems).
  • Experience working with CAT 5 and COAX wiring.
  • Ability to provide efficient, quality customer service to both internal and external customers both face-to-face and over-the-phone.
  • Ability to recognize and identify sales opportunities that meet the needs of customers and the company including promoting and closing sales of products and services.
  • Knowledge of basic electricity, as it relates to telecommunications (through classes or on-the-job training), which includes: knowledge related to the basic principles, theories, and applications of electricity (e.g., voltage, current, resistance, power, grounding, insulation, Ohm’s Law, AC/DC); knowledge of basic electrical components (e.g., conductors, insulators, switches, capacitors, inductors, transformers) and basic circuit design; and knowledge of the operation and application of common electrical components and common measurement instruments (e.g., multi-meters,).
  • Working knowledge of hand and power tools.
  • Ability to work well with others to achieve common goals and to foster a cooperative climate, as well as to work independently in the field with little supervision.
  • Ability to perform job activities outdoors in different weather conditions (e.g., extreme cold and/or heat, inclement weather).
  • When working aloft, employee’s weight and tools combined may not exceed the 280-pound weight limit as specified by the manufacturer.

Physical Demands:

  • Work involves standing, talking, hearing, using hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reaching with hands and arms.
  • The employee is frequently required to walk (10%), sit (5%), climb (10%), balance (5%), stand (15%), stoop (5%), kneel (5%), drive (20%), reach (10%), and smell (5%).
  • Skill in operation of some of the listed tools and equipment; and ability to perform heavy manual tasks for extended periods of time.
  • The employee must frequently push, pull, lift (10%) and/or carry up to 100 pounds and occasionally push, pull, lift and/or carry up to 100 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in inclement weather conditions.
  • The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and vibration.
  • The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and risk of electrical shock.

ITC Service Group (“ITC”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), or any other basis protected by law.

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