Telecommunications Equipment Installers & Repairers

realistic interest demonstrate equipment test circuits communication computer climb poles proper functioning electrical component wire

Combination Technician (Combination Tech), Outside Plant Technician (Outside Plant Tech), Service Technician (Service Tech), Telecommunications Technician (Telecommunications Tech)

What they do:
Install, set up, rearrange, or remove switching, distribution, routing, and dialing equipment used in central offices or headends. Service or repair telephone, cable television, Internet, and other communications equipment on customers' property. May install communications equipment or communications wiring in buildings.
On the job, you would:
  • Note differences in wire and cable colors so that work can be performed correctly.
  • Test circuits and components of malfunctioning telecommunications equipment to isolate sources of malfunctions, using test meters, circuit diagrams, polarity probes, and other hand tools.
  • Drive crew trucks to and from work areas.

Knowledge

Communications

  • telecommunications
  • multimedia

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics
  • product and service development

Business

  • customer service
  • management

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Skills

Basic Skills

  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Technical

  • figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work
  • repairing machines or systems using the right tools

Abilities

Hand and Finger Use

  • put together small parts with your fingers
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • communicate by speaking

Ideas and Logic

  • notice when problems happen
  • order or arrange things

Visual Understanding

  • see hidden patterns

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

They do well at jobs that need:

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Cautiousness
  • Perseverance
  • Cooperation
  • Integrity

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Analytical or scientific software

  • Fluke ClearSight Analyzer
  • Fluke Networks TechAdvisor Field Access System

Education

certificate after high school or
high school diploma/GED
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training
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Job Outlook

Below Average
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Salary:

$63,890
$44,240
$96,730
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about Telecommunications Equipment Installers & Repairers.