Cable Technician (Recession Proof)

Step 1: Earning a High School Diploma

Employers generally require that cable technicians hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. During high school, aspiring cable technicians should take courses in science and mathematics, subject areas in which cable technicians should have a strong background. Students in school districts that offer vocational or technical programs may consider enrolling in additional electronics courses.

Step 2: Gaining Work Experience

Most cable technicians start their careers as cable television installers. Cable installers deal only with the initial setup of cable systems in homes and offices, while cable technicians do installations as well as repairs. Installers gain valuable experience working with cable equipment and interacting with customers. They may also perform minor troubleshooting, which is also good preparation for a cable technician role. After a few years on the job, installers with good performance reports may advance to cable technician positions.

Step 3: Completing Cable Technology Training

Generally, cable companies provide new technicians with in-house training. These training programs teach cable technicians how to maintain TV cable and Internet lines and equipment. New technicians gain on-the-job training by shadowing other established technicians before completing their own assignments. They may be subject to progress reports.

Step 4: Getting an Electronics Degree

Cable technicians interested in advancing to more lucrative positions within a cable company should consider pursuing an associate’s degree (community college) or professional certificate in the field of electronics. Combined with several years of work experience and proficient job performance, an electronics degree can pave the way for a promotion to chief cable technician. Chief cable technicians are highly skilled technical workers who oversee a cable technician staff. They set schedules, advise technicians on difficult cable problems, deal with personnel matters and occasionally work in the field on a particularly complex repair job.

Step 5: Joining an Organization and Earning Certification

Many businesses provide their own certification for employed cable technicians. This designation demonstrates that a person has completed the company’s internal training program to satisfaction, and is qualified to perform work according to in-house standards. There are also private organizations which may offer certification. For example, the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) is a non-profit with over 13,000 international members. It offers Broadband Communications Technician (BCT) and Broadband Communications Engineer (BCE) certification.

Cable technicians may also opt to join industry organizations or unions to network with similar professionals and stay in touch with developments in the industry. Some associations also provide continuing education opportunities and seminars. SCTE provides professional development tools and presentations to cable technician members.

Most cable installers start off around $12/hr but depending on the company they work for go all the way to $25/hr!