Education and training requirements for Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairersMost employers seek applicants with postsecondary training in electronics and a familiarity with computers. Training sources include 2- and 4-year college programs in electronics or communications, trade schools, and equipment and software manufacturers. Military experience with communications equipment is valued by many employers. Many equipment repairers begin working in telecommunications companies as line-installers or telephone installers, before moving up to the job of central office installer and other more complex work. Newly hired repairers usually receive some training from their employers. This may include formal classroom training in electronics, communications systems, or software and informal hands-on training assisting an experienced repairer. Large companies may send repairers to outside training sessions to keep them informed about new equipment and service procedures. As networks have become more sophisticated—often including equipment from a variety of companies—the knowledge needed for installation and maintenance also has increased. Telecommunications equipment companies provide much of the training on specific equipment. With the rapid advances in switches, routers, and other equipment, repairers need to continually take courses and work to obtain manufacturers� certifications on the latest technology. Repairers must be able to distinguish colors, because wires are color-coded, and they must be able to hear distinctions in the various tones on a telephone system. For positions that require climbing poles and towers, workers must be in good physical shape. Repairers who handle assignments alone at a customer�s site must be able to work without close supervision. For workers who frequently contact customers, a pleasant personality, neat appearance, and good communications skills also are important. Experienced repairers with advanced training may become specialists or troubleshooters who help other repairers diagnose difficult problems, or may work with engineers in designing equipment and developing maintenance procedures. Because of their familiarity with equipment, repairers are particularly well qualified to become manufacturers� sales workers. Workers with leadership ability also may become maintenance supervisors or service managers. Some experienced workers open their own repair services or shops, or become wholesalers or retailers of electronic equipment. More information on Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers occupation Number of Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers Working conditions for Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers Significant points for Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers Training requirements for Radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |