Job
Descriptions
Most
Installers and Cable Splicers belong to unions,
such as the Communications Workers of America
(CWA). Both union and non-union positions
are listed separately below.
Entry-level
positions focus on fairly basic telecom equipment
such as telephones and computer modems in
small networks. As people advance, they work
with more complex communication systems, work
with less supervision, and might even supervise
others.
A.
UNION JOBS
Cable
Puller: $7 - 9 / hour (average: $8 / hour)
The Cable Puller pulls cable, which is very
demanding physically. No previous experience
with communications equipment is required,
but it is important to have general mechanical
aptitude and knowledge of how to use hand
tools.
Technician
I: $10 - 13 / hour (average: $12 / hour)
Technicians install modular connectors, innerduct
and fiber strands, as well as termination
of connectors. They have a good knowledge
of using hand tools as well as a basic understanding
of wiring systems for buildings. They also
understand communications cable/wiring color
codes.
Technician
II: $12 - 35 / hour (average: $16 / hour)
These Technicians have more knowledge of,
and experience with, the use of specialized
tools. They can use OTDR and other basic test
equipment, read schematics and plans, and
install/test cable without supervision. They
have strong knowledge and understanding of
building cabling systems and data communications.
They might need knowledge of specialized fiber
optic tools and building/campus fiber optic
network concepts.
Technician
III: $20 - 36 / hour (average: $24 / hour)
This senior level Technician has additional
responsibilities including trouble shooting
voice and data communications systems and
electronics. This could require thorough knowledge
of fiber optic installation, including splicing
and advanced test techniques. A Technician
III might also be responsible for training
lesser skilled employees, working alone, or
directing others.
B.
NON-UNION JOBS
Installer:
$10 - 15 / hour (average: $13 / hour)
Installers are responsible for installing
poles and placing the telephone lines. Power
equipment used in this process includes trenchers
and plows. This position encompasses the Technician
I and Technician II requirements listed above.
It may take 5 years to progress from an entry-level
installer to one that works independently
and is at the top of the pay range.
Note:
Installers often have "helpers"
who perform duties requiring lesser skills,
such as supplying or holding materials or
tools, and cleaning work areas and equipment.
Helpers are often required to be with an Installer
due to safety concerns. While it pays only
$7-10/hour, it is an excellent opportunity
to see first-hand the type of work you can
do with training.
Cable
Splicing Technician: $15 - 25 / hour (average:
$20 / hour)
Cable Splicing Technicians are responsible
for splicing overhead and underground telephone
cables, and have many characteristics of the
Technician III described above. Using specialty
tools to remove the sheath from the installed
cable, the technician tests conductors to
find their corresponding conductor in adjoining
sections and splices the sections together.
The Cable Splicer might also repair defective
phone jacks inside homes and locate damaged
areas along problematic service lines. Technicians
must be able to read service orders and circuit
diagrams to identify the correct splicing
specifications.
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