ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Tower Climber Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TEP

Tower Technician II

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Job Responsibilities: * Assist Top Hand with supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers * Safely and ... Able to work independently and as a member of a team * Able to travel extensively and work a ...

TEP

Tower Technician II

Elgin, IL · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Job Responsibilities: • Assist Top Hand with supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers • Safely and ... work independently and as a member of a team • Able to travel extensively and work a flexible ...

TEP

Tower Technician II

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Job Responsibilities: * Assist Top Hand with supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers * Safely and ... Able to work independently and as a member of a team * Able to travel extensively and work a ...

TEP

Tower Technician II

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Job Responsibilities: * Assist Top Hand with supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers * Safely and ... Able to work independently and as a member of a team * Able to travel extensively and work a ...

Tower Engineering Professionals

Top Hand

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Job Responsibilities: * Assist Tower Foreman with Supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers * Safely ... Able to work independently and as a member of a team * Able to travel extensively and work a ...

Tower Engineering Professionals

Top Hand

Raleigh, NC

$28 - $32/hr

Job Responsibilities: * Assist Tower Foreman with Supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers * Safely ... Able to work independently and as a member of a team * Able to travel extensively and work a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsIndependent Contractor Tower Climber Jobs

Independent Contractor Tower Climber information

See salary details

$11

$25

$35

How much do independent contractor tower climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor tower climber in the United States is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do tower climbers make the most money?

Tower climbers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a high demand for telecommunications infrastructure, such as urban areas or regions with extensive network upgrades. Factors like experience, certifications, and working conditions also influence earning potential, with specialized skills and safety training often leading to higher pay. Overall, locations with active cell tower construction and maintenance projects typically offer the highest compensation for tower climbers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Contractor Tower Climber position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Tower Climber, you need strong physical fitness, experience with climbing and working at heights, and a thorough understanding of safety practices, typically supported by OSHA certifications and climbing/rescue training. Familiarity with RF monitors, fall protection systems, and specialized construction tools is required for the technical aspects of the role. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are standout soft skills for managing complex projects and coordinating with clients or on-site teams. These competencies ensure safe, efficient installation or maintenance of tower equipment and compliance with rigorous industry standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by Independent Contractor Tower Climbers?

Independent Contractor Tower Climbers often encounter challenging working conditions, including extreme weather, long hours, and the physical demands of climbing tall structures. Staying compliant with safety regulations and keeping up-to-date on certifications is crucial, as the job involves significant risk. Contractors commonly work independently or in small teams, requiring excellent self-motivation and organization skills. Managing travel between job sites and maintaining equipment is also a regular part of the role. While the job can be physically and mentally demanding, it also offers a sense of accomplishment, competitive pay, and opportunities to work on diverse projects.

What is an Independent Contractor Tower Climber job?

An Independent Contractor Tower Climber is a skilled professional who installs, repairs, and maintains telecommunications equipment on towers. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors work on a per-project basis, often for multiple companies. The job involves climbing towers, working at high altitudes, and using specialized safety gear. Strong physical fitness, technical skills, and knowledge of industry safety standards are essential. Contractors must also handle their own insurance, equipment, and business operations.

Do tower climbers make 20k per climb?

Tower climbers typically do not earn $20,000 per climb; their pay is usually based on hourly rates, project scope, and experience. Climbing high structures requires specialized skills, safety certifications, and can involve significant risk, but individual earnings per climb are generally much lower than that amount.

How much do tower climbers make to change light bulbs?

Tower climbers typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour when changing light bulbs on communication towers, with pay rates influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of the task. Overtime and hazard pay may also apply for work at heights and in challenging conditions.

How do I get a job changing light bulbs on towers?

To become an independent contractor tower climber responsible for changing light bulbs, you typically need specialized training in tower safety, climbing techniques, and rescue procedures, along with certifications such as OSHA 10 or 30-hour training. Gaining experience with electrical work and working at heights, as well as obtaining a commercial driver's license if transportation is required, can improve your chances of securing such jobs.
More about Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Tower Climber job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tower Climber jobs? The most popular types of Tower Climber jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs are:
Independent Contractor Tower Climber jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Tower Climber job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,357 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Tower Technician II

Tower Technician II

Tower Engineering Professionals

Raleigh, NC

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Tower Engineering Professionals is seeking a full-time Tower Technician II in our Raleigh, N.C. office. As a Tower Tech II, you will serve as an integral member of our engineering team. Tower Engineering Professionals offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, paid vacation and holidays, 401k with company match, and a relaxed, fun environment.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Assist Top Hand with supervision of a crew of 2-5 climbers
  • Safely and efficiently complete repairs and upgrades at elevated heights
  • Knowledge and strict adherence to the applicable safety regulation and Safety policies
  • Follow instructions to accomplish assigned work in a timely and accurate manner
  • Maintain proper use of company vehicles, credit cards and other assigned assets
  • Read customer blueprints and execute scope of work per the customer’s specifications
  • Expansion and upgrades to established major cellular carrier networks, new installs, turnkey, microwave, LMR
  • Pre-Work and Post-Work site audits
  • Site upgrades and capacity expansion
  • Ability and willingness to train team members
Preferred Job Qualifications:
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • 1+ years of current/relevant tower climbing experience
  • Current authorized tower climber or competent climber and rescue certification preferred.
  • Ability to work at heights upwards of 300’ +
  • Ability to successfully complete and maintain certifications for the following courses: Competent Climber, Competent Rescuer, ANSI A10.48 Rigging Certification, Capstan Operations, RF Awareness, OSHA 10, First Aid/ CPR and other certifications as required
  • Experience installing and maintaining: Cabling, Antennas, Microwave dish, tower builds (NEW/MODS), site inspections, FAA lighting systems, cell carriers (Sprint, T-MOB, Verizon, USCC, Etc.)
  • Knowledge of and ability to operate test equipment (i.e. RF sweep gear, PIM and fiber testing)
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Working knowledge software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
  • Able to work independently and as a member of a team
  • Able to travel extensively and work a flexible schedule
  • Willingness to undergo a background and drug screening is required
Other Duties as Assigned:
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Working Conditions: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:
  • Walk, crawl or kneel / use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools or controls / reach with hands and arms / climb ladders, stairs or other elevated/ fixed structures for extended periods of time
  • Sit/stand for extended periods of time
  • Lift and/or move up to 75 pounds
  • Perform duties on-site and underground at industrial locations
  • Wear safety equipment, as per OSHA/MSHA/ANSI requirements including but not hard hat, required PPE for elevated work, high visibility clothing, protective eye wear, etc.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time

Apply