Outside Plant Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting-edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. Our commitment to excellence drives us to succeed together-creating a better world through meaningful connections.

Ready to make an impact? Join us.

The Manager - Outside Plant (OSP) Fiber Construction provides functional leadership and direction to all Construction associates across assigned markets. This role is responsible for driving efficient, high-quality project delivery-ensuring fiber construction builds are completed on time, within budget, and aligned with TDS standards. The Manager - Outside Plant (OSP) Fiber Construction serves as a key technical resource while maintaining a high level of professionalism in all internal and external interactions.

What You'll Do:

• Lead and develop Construction teams across assigned markets, creating a high-performing and engaged culture
• Oversee end-to-end execution of OSP fiber construction projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to quality standards
• Direct activities for proper placement and construction of OSP facilities while managing timelines, budgets, and project documentation
• Partner closely with Network Services (NS) Outside Plant Engineering (OSPE) and Outside Plant Construction (OSPC) teams to drive efficient builds and continuous improvement
• Provide technical expertise across fiber construction methods, troubleshooting, and best practices
• Ensure compliance with TDS policies, industry regulations, and OSHA safety standards
• Serve as the primary point of contact for OSP construction projects and resolve customer or project escalations
• Coach and guide teams through process improvements, ensuring alignment with business goals
• Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders, contractors, and external partners

Why You'll Love This Role:

• Make a real impact: Help expand fiber infrastructure that connects communities and powers how people live and work
• Lead with influence: Guide teams and shape construction strategy across multiple markets
• Blend strategy + field execution: Balance leadership, technical expertise, and hands-on operational oversight
• Growth opportunity: Play a key role in a rapidly expanding fiber network and evolving technology landscape
• Collaborative environment: Work cross-functionally with engineering, construction, and operations teams
• Purpose-driven work: Be part of a company committed to innovation, community, and meaningful connections

• Provide leadership to direct team and all other teams involved in OSP Construction activities, creating and maintaining a motivating and rewarding environment. 
• Build and maintain good working relationships with all adjacent teams. Provide direct feedback with relation to OSP Construction builds to peer Network Services (NS) Outside Plant Engineering (OSPE) and Outside Plant Construction (OSPC) teams, ensuring efficiencies of builds and production.
• Direct activities necessary for the proper placement of OSP facilities while monitoring project budgets, timelines, and records updates.
• Assist NS OSPE/OSPC teams in executing plans and/or processes tied to our overall business plan that will ensure high quality service is delivered to all TDS customers through timely OSP build completion and customer readiness.
• Ensure compliance with all TDS policies, processes and procedures. Develop, implement and monitor OSP Construction polices as needed to ensure continued safety while performing OSP builds.
• Ensure team maintains proper understanding of TDS' goals and is coached through process improvements as those needs arise.
• Serve as the management point of contact for all TDS Internal Construction OSP project builds, and customer-related issues in specific market(s).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or higher OR 4+ years professional work experience
• 4+ years' experience in the telecommunications industry
• 4+ years in a supervisory role or equivalent leadership experience
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license

Other Qualifications

• Upon hire, must successfully complete customer-specific requirements, which may include a background check administered by the customer.
• Strong technical background a plus. Should include an understanding of all aspects of OSP Construction: Fiber optic outside plant construction methods and best practices, trouble shooting, common equipment installation and maintenance practices.
• Supervisory/leadership experience leading OSP Construction teams is preferred.
• Lightwave transmission system experience preferred.
• Solid understanding of all types of OSP Fiber Optic network builds designs:  Centralized split, distributed split (including optical tap).
• Extensive knowledge of fiber optic construction methods, maintenance and restoration practices and procedures.
• Solid understanding of OSHA safety requirements and guidelines as it relates to OSP Construction projects.
• Must be able to coach a team of direct reports and team of contractors during emergency conditions.
• Must be available to work off hours when situations dictate.
• Excellent problem solving skills and interpersonal skills a must.
• Must possess a "can-do" attitude.
• Total Quality Management training will be considered a plus.
• Must enjoy working with people and team building (i.e. teaching, coaching).
• Must be able to multi-task and maintain a sense of urgency related to each separate issue.
• Must be able to handle stressful network outages, and/or customer impacting situations in a calm manner.

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what's listed on paper, but they can still lead to success. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!

Benefits

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well-being, and overall happiness. Join us and experience a work environment where your well-being is a top priority!

Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to:

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Associates working 30 or more hours per week additionally have access to:

• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• TDS Service Discounts
• Education Assistance
• Paid Volunteer Time

In addition to these benefits, all associates will have the opportunity to participate in our Associate Resource Groups, which are designed to encourage community and facilitate professional development. To learn more, click here.

Who is TDS Telecom?

TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Visit tdstelecom.com to learn more! 

At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the diversity of 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.

Pay Transparency

The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.