A Career In Cable Installation

Answer 1

Cable installers install technical equipment in homes and businesses for cable and satellite providers. Training to become a cable installer requires a minimum of a high school education or equivalent. Some high schools offer vocational training courses that teach students the basics of telecommunications. Applicants must also have a good driving record. Pursuing a degree in communications will provide additional education in engineering technology and network configurations. A degree will help you advance to a management position.

After training and getting hired by a cable or satellite provider, you will be trained in the company's cable equipment and installation methods. Employers can also send you to train at a manufacturer's location. Advancement opportunities include being promoted to line installer or an engineering technician position. The starting salary for a cable installer is over $31,000 per year. Most cable and satellite installation companies provide employees with benefits. Skilled cable installation technicians and satellite installers are in demand across the country.

Installers also repair technical equipment and need good customer service skills. Installers must deal with people on a regular basis. They need to have a good mechanical aptitude ability. They also need to be able to answer customer questions and concerns. Installers should be in good physical condition. They are constantly lifting, bending and moving. Installers work both indoors and outdoors in any kind of weather condition. Good time management skills will help an installer arrive on time for customer appointments.

You can find vocational schools and community colleges that offer programs for a cable technician certificate and installation specialist certificate. Courses include cable installation, testing and maintenance. Training can be completed in less than one year. Basic computer knowledge about hardware, software and operating systems is the preferred prerequisite. Coursework covers the basics of the typical equipment found in the industry. You will learn about fiber optics, circuits and telecommunications wiring. Line installers and repairers enjoy an average salary of over $49,000 per year. You can also achieve professional certification as a broadband premises installer, broadband distribution specialist and broadband transport specialist. The profession certifications require continued education, testing and re-certification every three years.