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Entry Level Tower Climber Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Tower Climber information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$22

$32

How much do entry level tower climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level tower climber in Tennessee is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level tower climber?

Entry level tower climbers are technicians who work on communication towers, such as those used for cellular, radio, or broadcast signals. They are responsible for climbing towers to install, maintain, and repair antennas, cables, and other equipment. While they may not have prior experience, entry level climbers receive on-the-job training in safety procedures, climbing techniques, and equipment handling. This role requires physical fitness, a strong attention to safety, and a willingness to work at significant heights. It's a crucial position in the telecommunications industry, helping to keep communication networks running smoothly.

What does an entry level tower climber do?

The job duties of an entry-level tower climber involve climbing towers to install or maintain equipment. In this role, your responsibilities may include inspecting the tower itself for damage or performing simple repairs. You may assist more experienced technicians or engineers as they make repairs or install equipment. One aspect of this job involves observing climbing safety procedures. Your job description may include acting as a rescue climber and aiding in rescue operations on a tower in instances of a fall or injury involving another employee.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level tower climber?

To thrive as an Entry Level Tower Climber, you need a basic understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety harnesses, climbing gear, RF monitors, and OSHA certifications is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you work safely and efficiently on site. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure both personal safety and the integrity of telecommunications and broadcast infrastructure.

What are some common challenges entry level tower climbers face during their first year on the job?

Entry-level tower climbers often face challenges such as adapting to working at significant heights, learning proper safety protocols, and building physical stamina for demanding tasks. Teamwork is crucial, as new climbers must communicate effectively with experienced crew members to ensure safety and efficiency. Additionally, adjusting to varying weather conditions and travel requirements can be demanding, but most employers provide comprehensive training and mentorship to support new hires through these challenges.

What is the difference between Entry Level Tower Climber vs Apprentice Tower Technician?

AspectEntry Level Tower ClimberApprentice Tower Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic climbing safetyOSHA safety training, basic climbing safety, possibly additional technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, high elevations, physical laborOutdoor, high elevations, technical tasks under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom, wind energy, utility companiesTelecom, wind energy, utility companies

Entry Level Tower Climbers perform basic climbing and safety tasks, often under supervision, focusing on physical labor. Apprentice Tower Technicians are in training, gaining technical skills and certifications while working alongside experienced technicians. Both roles are essential in the telecommunications and energy industries, with the apprentice role emphasizing skill development for future independent work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tower Climber jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Tower Climber jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Tower Climber jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Tower Climber jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Tower Climber jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Tower Climber job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Tower Climber job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,520 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Tower Technician II - Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, TN • On-site


Pillar Innovations
Oil and Gas Extraction • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$19.50 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

Pillar Innovations is an Industrial Solutions and Service Company with over 15 years of experience in the Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Industrial Construction, Aggregate, and Renewables Industries. The Corporate Headquarters are located in Grantsville, MD with several offices throughout the country.
Are you looking for a place to expand your skills and grow in a career? Our company promotes continuous learning, diverse work opportunities, and flexibility. We also provide defined career path advancement, full benefits, and a variety of apprenticeship/continuing education programs. Openings for experienced workers and training for entry level positions are always available. Start a career with us today!

The general role of a Tower Technician II - Wireless Services is to safely and efficiently complete equipment installations, repairs, and upgrades at communications sites both on the ground and at elevated heights without direct supervision. In addition, the Tower Technician III will be responsible for leading and mentoring a team of up to 6 members.

This individual will represent Pillar Innovations in a safe, professional, and courteous manner. This position will require a flexible schedule which may includeextensive travel, extended hours, weekends, and holidays.         

The Tower Technician II - Wireless Services will report to the Construction Manager – Wireless Services and will work primarily out of their assigned location.


  • Build customer infrastructure, such as tower erection, expansion, and upgrades to new and existing wireless networks (e.g., tower mods, L&A installs)
  • Read and understand site documents such as Construction Drawings, Radio Frequency Data Sheets, Structural Analyses, Mount Analyses, Tower Modification Design Drawings, etc.
  • Safely and efficiently complete equipment installations and upgrades at elevated heights
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and correct equipment and network functionality
  • Observe and report possible compound/equipment defects or hazards
  • Document job costs, including labor hours and material in an accurate and timely manner
  • Accurately follow instructions and complete assigned course of action in accordance with scope of work and methods of procedures (MOPs)
  • Complete Material Inventory upon delivery
  • Perform pre-work and post-work site audits
  • Obtain written customer approval for change orders
  • Operate Test Equipment (RF Sweep Gear, PIM, and Fiber Testing)
  • Train and mentor lessor experienced team members
  • Perform and oversee elevated work activities as required or directed
  • Assist Foremen in the scheduling of labor, materials, and other job tasks
  • Lead Wireless Services Tower team members as required (in absence of Foreman or Manager)
  • Develop and execute rigging plans for hoisting operations per industry standards

  • 2+ years of experience installing and maintaining cabling, antennas, microwave dishes, tower builds, site inspections, lighting systems, wireless carriers preferred
  • Valid Driver’s License required
  • Ability and attitude to follow rigid job safety standards and properly utilize specialized Personal Protective Equipment
  • Maintain certifications for courses such as: Authorized/ Competent Climber, Authorized/Competent Rescuer, ANSI A10.48 Rigging Certification, Capstan Operations, RF Awareness, OSHA 10, First Aid/ CPR and other certifications as required.
  • Willingness to take on and learn new tasks and skills
  • Able to work independently and as a member of a team
  • Willingness to work in extreme environmental conditions
  • Proficient computer skills and ability to use software applications including Microsoft Suite
  • Experience in operating test equipment [i.e., RF (radio frequency) sweep gear, PIM (passive intermodulation), and fiber testing]to include
  • Read, understand and implement tower rigging plans
  • Competency and ability to deploy complex rigging setups (2:1, 3:1, etc..) to hoist heavy loads safely to the tower
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Fluency in English is required
  • Familiarity with general accounting/costing practices including budgeting, invoicing, purchase orders and accounts payable
  • Possess demonstrated leadership skills and abilities

Working Conditions

  • Walk, crawl, talk, see, read, hear, feel, sit, stand, kneel, crouch, twist, reach, grasp and climb with both hands and legs for extended periods of time
  • Lift and/or move up to 75 pounds
  • Climb at heights of 300’+ for extended periods of time
  • Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

This position requires the completion of a thorough background and pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. In accordance with The Company’s Drug and Alcohol policy, employees are required to participate in random, post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing as requested.

 

AAP/EEO Statement 
This Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities without regard to any protected classes under applicable law.

ADA Statement

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


WE ARE NOW EMPLOYEE OWNED

Employees are beneficial owners through an ESOP (Employee Stock Option Plan) that works through a qualified retirement plan.

Perks/Benefits 

  • Comprehensive Benefits
    • Health/Life insurance
    • 401(k) retirement plan
    • Short/Long term disability
    • Paid time off and holidays
  • Paid lodging, per diem, and transportation provided for out-of-town work
  • Employee focused work environment
    • On-the-job mentoring and training
    • Internal job postings
    • Performance and salary reviews
    • Employee feedback program
  • Safety-first and drug free work environments
    • Bonuses and incentives for working safely
    • Company provided tools and basic safety equipment
    • PPE allowances with no restrictions on vendors
  • Weekly pay with premium pay for Sundays and holidays
  • Advancement through defined employee career paths
  • Financial tools/programs to help employees reach financial goals, manage money, get out of debt, and save for the future
  • Scholarship opportunities for dependent children

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

This position requires the completion of a thorough background and pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. In accordance with The Company’s Drug and Alcohol policy, employees are required to participate in random, post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing as requested.

 

AAP/EEO Statement 
This Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities without regard to any protected classes under applicable law.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

ADA Statement

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.




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