Aerial fiber and strand work and crews

Aerial work hangs strand on existing poles, then lashes or overlashes fiber to it. It also covers down guys, anchors, risers and make-ready. Most of it is done out of bucket trucks, with some climbing where a truck cannot reach.

Also searched as: aerial lineman, strand crew, lasher, aerial fiber technician, bucket truck operator, make-ready crew.

Who hires for this

Fiber primes, ISPs and cable operators post aerial builds, often in large sections along a route. Make-ready work sometimes comes straight from the pole owner or its contractors.

What they ask for

• Bucket truck, reel trailer and lashing equipment
• Crew trained on working near energized lines and pole attachment rules
• A CDL for drivers where the truck requires one
• Fall protection gear and a current safety program
• Certificate of insurance with auto coverage for the trucks
• Experience with the owner's attachment specs and clearances

How to land more of it

• List your bucket trucks and their working height. That decides which routes you can take.
• Say whether you do make-ready, anchors and guys, or strand and lash only.
• Primes remember crews that tag and document correctly. Photo each pole the way the spec asks.
• If your crew climbs, say so. Back-lot poles are hard to staff.

What do I need to sub aerial fiber work?

Usually a bucket truck, a reel trailer, a lasher and the hardware to build strand, along with a crew that understands clearances from power. Most primes will ask for proof of training for work near energized lines. Having your own trucks is the big hurdle.

Who handles pole permits and make-ready?

The owner or prime normally handles pole attachment applications with the pole owner. Make-ready may be done by the power company, another contractor, or your crew if you are qualified. Do not hang strand on a pole until the prime tells you make-ready is complete there.

Is aerial paid by the foot?

Strand and lash is often priced per foot, with separate unit prices for anchors, guys, risers and slack loops. Read the unit list carefully so the extras you install actually get billed.

How do I connect with primes that need aerial crews?

Put up a free crew profile on the TrackOver board with your trucks, working heights and whether you climb. Primes posting aerial sections can see your equipment before they reach out.