Telecommunications Technician

 Description

The telecommunications technicians install, test and repair equipment operated communications technology. They work with cable televisions and telephone systems, radio networks, satellite systems, and mobile phone networks.

Work activities

Telecommunications technicians install, test, and repair devices that run on communications technology.

Some telecommunications technicians travel within a local area by truck, and serve the customer over the phone when he calls to report a breakdown. Each technician is usually responsible for a specific geographical area.

They start their working day in a workshop or control center. First, they check that all jobs for that day are filled. They then load the truck with all the necessary tools and equipment, and travel to the customer's premises to repair breakdowns.

Once at the client's home or office, they try to cause as little disruption as possible. Sometimes telecommunications technicians can repair equipment on site. If not, they take it to a workshop for verification and necessary repairs.

Other telecommunications technicians install communication systems in clients' homes and business premises. Sometimes installing a completely new system can take weeks or even months to complete. They also provide telephone assistance to customers.

In addition to telephones, they can install systems such as fax machines and cabling for computer networks. To install telecommunications systems, they can lay cables and connect and check the operation of equipment. You can also work with highly technical equipment, such as digital television or satellite.

In a telephone exchange, telecommunications technicians troubleshoot telephone lines and connect new services to customers.

Some telecommunications technicians work for equipment manufacturers, helping to design, develop, test, and install equipment.

The work could be done outdoors if it involves, for example, laying and connecting cables. Some tasks, such as fixing cables to telegraph poles, may involve working at height.

Most jobs involve bending movements, standing on stairs or standing for long periods of time, and lifting and carrying weights. There are telecommunications technicians who must wear protective clothing such as safety helmets. The work can be carried out under all kinds of weather conditions.

RF Tech