What is a Tower Climbing Grease Monkey?
If you’re looking for a unique and challenging career, becoming a tower climbing grease monkey might be right for you. This job involves climbing tall structures, such as cell phone towers or wind turbines, to perform maintenance and repairs. It’s a physically demanding job that requires a lot of specialized training and safety precautions, but it can also be rewarding for those who enjoy working outdoors and have a strong sense of adventure.
How to Get Started
To become a tower climbing grease monkey, you’ll need to start by getting certified in tower climbing and safety procedures. There are a number of organizations that offer training and certification courses, such as the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) or the Tower Climbing Grease Monkeys Association (TCGMA). You’ll also need to have a strong background in electrical or mechanical systems, as well as experience working with tools and equipment.
Working Conditions
Tower climbing grease monkeys work in a variety of conditions, from hot and humid weather to cold and windy environments. They may also work at heights of up to 1,000 feet or more, which can be dangerous and requires a lot of focus and attention to safety. Additionally, this job often requires travel and long hours, so it’s important to be flexible and adaptable.
Safety Precautions
Safety is always a top priority for tower climbing grease monkeys. They must wear protective gear, such as hard hats, safety harnesses, and steel-toed boots, and follow strict safety procedures when climbing or working on towers. They must also be trained in emergency response procedures and have a plan in place for getting down from a tower quickly and safely in case of an emergency.
Tools and Equipment
Tower climbing grease monkeys use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their jobs, such as wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers for repairs or maintenance. They may also use specialized equipment, such as hoists or winches, to move heavy objects up and down the tower. It’s important to be familiar with all of the equipment and tools used in this job, as well as how to properly care for and maintain them.
Working with a Team
Tower climbing grease monkeys often work in teams, which requires good communication and teamwork skills. They must be able to work effectively with others, follow instructions, and share information about their progress or any issues that arise. It’s also important to be able to work independently, as tower climbing often involves working at heights where direct supervision may not be possible.
Physical Demands
This job requires a lot of physical strength and endurance, as well as the ability to climb and work at heights for extended periods of time. Tower climbing grease monkeys must be in good physical condition and able to lift heavy objects or work in awkward positions. They may also need to be comfortable working in confined spaces, such as inside a tower.
Career Advancement
With experience and additional training, tower climbing grease monkeys can advance to higher-paying positions, such as tower inspector or project manager. They may also choose to specialize in a certain type of tower, such as wind turbines or communication towers. It’s important to continue learning and developing new skills in this field to stay competitive and advance your career.
Job Outlook
The demand for tower climbing grease monkeys is expected to increase in the coming years, as more and more tall structures are built for communication, energy, and other purposes. This job can offer a unique and challenging career path for those who are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to succeed.
Conclusion
Becoming a tower climbing grease monkey is not for everyone, but for those who enjoy a physical challenge and working outdoors, it can be a rewarding and exciting career path. With the right training, equipment, and safety precautions, anyone can learn to climb towers and perform maintenance and repairs at great heights. Keep these tips and tricks in mind as you embark on your journey as a tower climbing grease monkey in 2023 and beyond.