Communications Technician Job Description

Communications technicians are sometimes required to climb telephone poles or roofs to repair outside service lines.

Communications technicians, sometimes known as telecommunications service technicians or telecommunications installers and repairers, are responsible for installing telecommunications equipment at homes and businesses. They are also dispatched to customers' locations when telecommunications equipment requires repair or maintenance. There are no formal education requirements for communications technicians, but they must receive proper training because much of the technology that they work with is complex.

Duties

Communications technicians install and repair telecommunications equipment, including telephone, cable TV and Internet devices, at customers' homes and businesses. Much of the communications equipment that they are responsible for is complex, including the switching and routing equipment that is set up at company headquarters. Communications technicians also travel to customers' property to maintain equipment. When customers first subscribe to a service or move to a new location, the technician must install equipment. If a customer adds an additional service to an account, communications technicians may install new parts or make changes to wiring. They may also be required to climb poles to adjust or maintain outside services lines, so that network connections remain stable.

Training

Most communications technician positions require a minimum of a high school degree or GED. Technicians receive training on the job, and start by performing simple duties, such as clearing tree branches so they do not interfere with lines. They may receive classroom instruction as well, or participate in online training courses. Some communications technicians choose to receive formal training in electronics or communications at vocational schools or community colleges. Employers usually offer training to experienced workers as well, so they are able to stay up to date with the latest advances in telecommunications technology.

Working Conditions

Most communications technicians work standard 40-hour weeks, but overtime is not uncommon, particularly when storms or other emergencies disrupt telecommunications services. They work both inside homes and businesses and outside as well, which sometimes requires working in inclement or hot weather. The job can be physically demanding as they must climb, crouch, crawl and lift heavy items on a regular basis. Communications technicians may also be required to work at significant heights, such as atop telephone pools or roofs. Because they work with electrical circuits and wires, they must exercise extreme caution to avoid injuring themselves.

Benefits

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wages for communications technicians were $27.60 as of May 2008. Technicians who work full-time receive additional benefits as well, particularly those who are members of a union. Many communications technicians belong to the Communications Workers of America or the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers unions. Additional benefits may include health and life insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and overtime pay.

Employment Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for communications technicians will decline by 11.3 percent between 2008 and 2018. While there will continue to be a demand for wireless cable, Internet and mobile services, advances in technology have made the telecommunications infrastructure more dependable, reducing the need for repairs. There will still be opportunities, however, because experienced communications technicians are expected to retire or leave the field. Candidates who have completed formal training will enjoy the best prospects.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Telecommunications

Resources

• Communications Workers of America: Home Page