What does a Cable Technician do?

Cable Technicians work in the telecommunications, technology and video delivery industries. They service and install cable television systems, office internet networks, digital and traditional telephone lines and security systems. Cable Technician job duties include conducting operational tests on newly installed cable, telephone and fiber-optic systems, and they perform annual maintenance on existing cable systems. Common types of equipment that Cable Technicians work with include digital cable boxes, satellite television dishes and computer network routers and cables. The main objective of a Cable Technician is to ensure that residential and business cable systems are fully operational at all times.  

Cable Technician skills and qualifications

A successful Cable Technician should have the following skills and qualifications in order to excel in your position:

• Strong multitasking skills

• Ability to move equipment up to 75 pounds

• Strong understanding of mathematics and science

• Willingness to work as a team player

• Strong communication and customer service skills

• Problem solving skills

• Strong work ethic

• Knowledge of basic electronics

Cable Technician experience requirements

Cable Technicians are generally required to have at least 2+years of experience in electrical cable repair and installation. Since Cable Technicians work in the telecommunications, technology and video delivery industries, specific experience requirements can vary depending on the industry.

For Cable Technicians seeking employment in the video delivery industry, requirements may include previous experience with cable television repairs and installations, while a telecommunications company may require that all applicants have previous experience working with fiber optics. An employer in the technology industry might require that potential candidates have experience in information technology (IT), computer repair or electronics.

Alternatively, some companies hire individuals seeking Cable Technician careers as entry-level employees, in which they offer on-the-job training and apprenticeship opportunities. In these situations, past experience may not be necessary, but the employer may require the entry-level Cable Technician to work under an experienced technician for a set amount of time.

Cable Technician education and training requirements

Cable Technicians’ education and training requirements generally include a high school diploma or GED equivalent and previous on-the-job training. Some companies may also require that every potential hire holds a Certified Network Cable Installer (CNCI) certification. The CNCI program trains individuals seeking Cable Technician careers on network cable infrastructure installations, terminations and testing, industry standards and best practices. Additional training requirements can vary depending on company needs. However, most Cable Technicians receive training in areas such as cable system troubleshooting and repairs, customer service, copper cabling and fiber-optic installations.

Cable Technician salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Cable Technician is $26.98 per hour, or $51,771 annually. These figures are averages, as specific salary and pay rates can vary based on factors such as company policies, geographical location and an applicant’s overall experience.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Cable Technician job description isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, consider these similar positions that may better fit your needs:

• Satellite Technician

• Installation Technician

Cable Technician job description FAQs

Do Cable Technicians have different responsibilities in different industries?

In the video delivery industry, Cable Technicians are responsible for installing and repairing cable and satellite television systems. In the telecommunication industry, they’re responsible for the installation and repair of telephone and security systems. In the technology industry, Cable Technicians service and install computer network systems.

Are Cable Technicians in high demand?

As technology continues to grow and expand, so does the need for Cable Technicians. From residential cable and internet installations and repairs to complete office network overhauls, Cable Technicians are in high demand. Additionally, the technology industry is considered the highest-paying industry for Cable Technicians.

Do Cable Technicians work independently?

Cable Technicians work both independently and with teams, depending on the extent of each service call. For example, standard cable television system installations are often performed by a single technician, while office network installations that include cable television, internet and digital phone lines generally require a full team of technicians.