How to become a telecommunications equipment installers and repairer, except line installers

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.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, except line installers do

• 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.
• Assemble and install communication equipment such as data and telephone communication lines, wiring, switching equipment, wiring frames, power apparatus, computer systems, and networks.
• Run wires between components and to outside cable systems, connecting them to wires from telephone poles or underground cable accesses.
• Inspect equipment on a regular basis to ensure proper functioning.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Active Learning
• Writing
• Learning Strategies

Is telecommunications equipment installers and repairer, except line installers a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 25% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Alaska $95,850
• North Dakota $90,890
• New Hampshire $85,240
• Vermont $81,800
• Louisiana $80,210

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.