National
| Median wages (2008) |
$26.73 hourly, $55,600 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
198,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Slower than average (3% to 6%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
54,000 additional employees |
49-2022.00 - Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers
Set-up, rearrange, or remove switching and dialing equipment used in central offices. Service or repair telephones and other communication equipment on customers' property. May install equipment in new locations or install wiring and telephone jacks in buildings under construction.
Sample of reported job titles:
Central Office Technician, Install / Repair Technician, Service Technician, Installer, Telecommunications Technician, Customer Service Technician (CST), Combination Technician, Field Technician, Communications Technician, Outside Plant Technician
Tasks
- 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.
- Test repaired, newly installed, or updated equipment to ensure that it functions properly and conforms to specifications, using test equipment and observation.
- Drive crew trucks to and from work areas.
- Inspect equipment on a regular basis in order to ensure proper functioning.
- Repair or replace faulty equipment such as defective and damaged telephones, wires, switching system components, and associated equipment.
- Remove and remake connections in order to change circuit layouts, following work orders or diagrams.
- Demonstrate equipment to customers and explain how it is to be used, and respond to any inquiries or complaints.
- Analyze test readings, computer printouts, and trouble reports to determine equipment repair needs and required repair methods.
- Adjust or modify equipment to enhance equipment performance or to respond to customer requests.
