Tower Technician Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Becoming a Tower Technician in Salt Lake City, Utah

Are you considering a career as a tower technician in Salt Lake City, Utah? Tower technicians—sometimes called tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—play a vital role in maintaining, installing, and repairing the wireless infrastructure that keeps communities connected. This guide explores what a tower technician does, the education and training paths available, and how to get started in Salt Lake City.

Tower technicians are responsible for climbing communication towers to install and maintain antennas, transmission lines, and other equipment. The role demands technical skill, physical stamina, strict adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work at significant heights. There are several ways to enter the field, including hands-on training programs, apprenticeships, and industry-recognized certifications.

About Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah’s capital, sits in the heart of the Wasatch Front and serves as a hub for business, technology, and outdoor recreation. The city’s proximity to the mountains, its historic downtown, and neighborhoods like Sugar House and The Avenues create a dynamic environment for residents and workers. Learn more about the city by visiting the official Salt Lake City website.

As the state’s economic and population center, Salt Lake City is a prime location for telecommunications infrastructure, making it an excellent place to start a tower technician career.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City and the surrounding region offer several options for individuals seeking tower technician training. While there are limited programs within the city itself, nearby institutions provide comprehensive training for aspiring tower climbers. Below are three reputable programs:

1. Tower Safety – Salt Lake Valley

  • Location: Salt Lake Valley
  • Program: Tower Climbing Safety & Rescue, Authorized/Competent Climber, OSHA 10/30, RF Awareness, First Aid/CPR, SPRAT, Rigging
  • Overview: Tower Safety is a recognized Petzl Technical Partner, offering a 15,000+ square foot facility dedicated to tower technician training. Courses cover climbing safety, rescue, rigging, RF safety, and more, providing both classroom instruction and practical, hands-on experience on training towers. Flexible scheduling and advanced certifications are available.
  • Learn more: Tower Safety Salt Lake Valley

2. Dreambound (Partnered Local Training Providers)

  • Location: Salt Lake City (various partner schools)
  • Program: Tower Technician Training Program
  • Overview: Dreambound connects students with accredited local training providers. Their Salt Lake City programs typically last 17 weeks and cost approximately $8,790. The curriculum includes tower climbing, equipment installation, safety procedures, and preparation for industry certifications.
  • Learn more: Dreambound Salt Lake City Tower Technician Training

3. Pinnacle Career Institute – Kansas City, MO (Hybrid Option)

  • Distance: Approximately 1,000 miles from Salt Lake City (hybrid/remote with in-person requirement)
  • Program: Online Tower Technician Program with 10-day residential hands-on training
  • Overview: For those open to travel, Pinnacle Career Institute offers a 30-week online program with a required 10-day, in-person component at their Kansas City campus. All travel and lodging costs are included in tuition, making it accessible for Utah residents seeking flexible, accredited training.
  • Learn more: Pinnacle Career Institute Tower Technician Program

Note: If you’re unable to attend a program within Salt Lake City, Salt Lake Community College and other nearby technical colleges may offer relevant electrical or construction safety programs that provide a foundation for tower technician work.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s growing telecommunications infrastructure provides steady employment for tower technicians. Several major companies in the area offer job opportunities:

1. KMM Telecommunications

  • Location: Salt Lake City (multiple sites)
  • Description: KMM is a leading provider of wireless infrastructure services, including tower installation and maintenance. They frequently hire for entry-level and experienced tower technician roles. Benefits include insurance, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off.
  • Jobs: KMM Telecommunications Careers

2. Larson Tower Specialists

  • Location: Salt Lake City (regional headquarters)
  • Description: Larson Tower Specialists is a locally owned contractor focusing on cell tower construction and maintenance for major wireless carriers. They operate throughout Utah and neighboring states.
  • Jobs: Larson Tower Specialists

3. VIKOR

  • Location: Pleasant Grove, UT (~35 miles south of Salt Lake City)
  • Description: VIKOR specializes in wireless infrastructure services, including tower construction and maintenance. Entry-level positions start at $22 per hour with overtime, paid travel, and benefits.
  • Jobs: VIKOR Careers

Additional opportunities can be found with Liberty Electric Towers, Ansco & Associates, and through local job boards maintained by the Utah Department of Workforce Services.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician training program, applicants should meet the following prerequisites:

  • Minimum Age: 18 years old
  • Education: High school diploma or GED typically required
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb towers and work at heights (may require a physical assessment)
  • Background Check: Many employers and training programs require a background check
  • Drug Screening: Pre-employment or pre-enrollment drug testing is common
  • Legal Authorization: Must be eligible to work in the United States

Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a valid driver’s license or basic mechanical aptitude.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is a critical step for tower technicians, ensuring safety and industry recognition. The following are the most recognized certifications:

1. National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA)

  • Certifications: Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) and 2 (TTT-2)
  • Overview: NWSA certifications assess both written knowledge and practical skills for tower work. These credentials are widely recognized by employers.
  • Details: NWSA Certification

2. ComTrain

  • Certifications: Authorized Climber/Rescuer, Competent Climber/Rescuer, Rigging, Capstan Hoist, RF Awareness
  • Overview: ComTrain provides industry-standard training and certification for tower climbing safety, rescue, and rigging.
  • Details: ComTrain Certifications

3. OSHA Safety Training

  • Certifications: OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour Construction Safety
  • Overview: These certifications are required for most tower technician roles to ensure fundamental understanding of workplace hazards and safety practices.
  • Details: OSHA Outreach Training

4. Additional Certifications

  • RF Awareness: Essential for working near radio frequency equipment.
  • First Aid/CPR: Frequently required by employers.
  • SPRAT: For specialized rope access and rescue.

Certification is typically industry-based and not state-regulated, but most Utah employers require these national credentials.

Get Started Today

A tower technician career in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers strong earning potential, job stability, and the chance to play a key role in the region’s communications network. If you’re ready to take the next step, review the training programs outlined above and reach out to a local school to start your application. Your path to becoming a certified tower technician begins with the right education—contact a training provider today to begin your journey.

For more information on job outlook and national employment statistics for tower technicians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers page.