Telecommunications Line Installer/Repairer
A Telecommunications Line Installer/Repairer is a professional responsible for installing and maintaining the lines and cables essential for communication systems, including fiber-optic networks used for telephones, cable television, and the Internet. These workers perform outdoor tasks such as installing utility poles, stringing cables, and laying underground lines, often using specialized construction equipment. The role requires skills in problem-solving and technology, appealing to those who enjoy working in diverse environments, from high above in bucket trucks to underground in trenches. With a median annual earning of $85,420, job opportunities in this field are growing at a rate of 8%, reflecting a demand for skilled labor in telecommunications.
While no formal related work experience is necessary to start, a high school diploma is typically required, and on-the-job training is provided. Education in mathematics, physics, and computer science can be beneficial, and many employers prefer candidates with additional training in telecommunications systems or digital electronics. Telecommunications line installers and repairers must prioritize safety and efficiency, often collaborating with small teams while also interacting with customers to resolve service issues. Overall, this profession plays a crucial role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports modern communication technologies.
Telecommunications Line Installer/Repairer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Technology, working outdoors, solving problems
Earnings (Yearly Median): $85,420 per year $41.07 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training Long-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work.Telecommunications line installers and repairers install and maintain the lines and cables, including fiber-optic cables, used to transmit communication signals for telephones, cable television, the Internet, and other communications networks. They install utility poles and string cables and use construction equipment to lay underground cables. They also maintain existing cables by using remote monitoring equipment and responding in person to customers during service outages. Telecommunications line installers and repairers must be able to handle heights while working inside bucket trucks, climb poles and towers, and work in tunnels and trenches. Special safety equipment is used to minimize the risk of injury.
Work Environment. Telecommunications line installers and repairers work in and around any setting that uses cable television, Internet, or other telecommunications devices. Many telecommunications line installers work in residential neighborhoods, while others specialize in implementing cable television, Internet, or security-system networks in businesses, organizations, or government agencies. Much of the work of telecommunications line installers and repairers takes place outdoors, at external utility boxes or telephone poles.
Occupation Interest. Jobs pertaining to field and utility work in the telecommunications industry traditionally appeal to technologically savvy problem solvers who enjoy working on complex issues individually or in small groups. They should enjoy working outdoors and be comfortable performing duties in different situations, such as high up in the air or underground trenches.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Telecommunications line installers and repairers traditionally work out of centralized headquarters that house cable, Internet, or other communications systems. Those employed by Internet and cable service providers work in the field and begin their day reviewing the day’s project list with supervisory staff. It is customarily the job of installation and repair workers to load their repair vans or trucks with the necessary equipment and tools needed for each of the day’s installations or repairs.
Telecommunications line installers and repairers must work quickly and efficiently, prioritizing jobs by complexity and need. They can often complete several simple repairs in a day, but system overhauls and extensive repairs can take several days or weeks depending on their size and scope. Time management and staying on task are significant facets of the job.
Professionals who work in and around telecommunications systems must also be well-versed in the potential dangers of working around high-voltage electronics and public utility poles. Patience and adherence to basic safety procedures are essential parts of a telecommunications line installer and repairer’s job, to protect their safety and the safety of those around them.
Another major responsibility of telecommunications line installers and repairers is to follow through once a job is complete to ensure that all systems respond appropriately and that any previous issues have been resolved.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Telecommunications line installers and repairers typically work at external communications hubs, which may be located on utility poles or rooftops. They are often employed by cable television and Internet service providers and telephone companies.
Human Environment. Telecommunications line installers and repairers primarily work alone or with small groups of coworkers. Given the complexity of the systems that they work on, however, major projects and repairs sometimes require extensive collaboration. Residential and commercial telecommunications repairs require extensive interaction with customers and business owners.
Technological Environment. Telecommunications professionals work in a highly specialized technological environment. They must be familiar with network applications, telephone systems, Internet protocol setup, and exchange switchboards.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students can best prepare for a career as a telecommunications line installer and repairer by taking courses in algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, physics, and introductory computer science. Drafting, architecture, and traditional art classes can also be an essential foundation for future system design work. Exposure to computer technology through internships, volunteerism, and extracurricular activities such as science and technology fairs is also beneficial.
Postsecondary. Employers in the telecommunications industry are increasingly giving preference to applicants with at least some formal training in computer science, media, or technology. Many colleges across the United States offer certificate and two-year associate’s programs in telecommunications systems, digital electronics repair, and networking. Many telecommunications professionals use whatever formal training they have and adapt it to the systems, technology, and tools their employers use through pre-employment training sessions and on-the-job field training.
The constant evolution of technology is a challenge for all workers in telecommunications. Many telecommunications professionals hone their skills at annual training seminars, either voluntarily or through educational programs sponsored by their employers.
Related Occupations
− Telecommunications Equipment Repairer
Bibliography
“Line Installers and Repairers.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/line-installers-and-repairers.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022: 49-9051 Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers.” Occupational Employment Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes499051.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.