A cable installer is a hands on job that uses intelligence. Cable installers are responsible for installing and repairing telecommunication cables and equipment. Workers need to have a solid understanding of mathematics and electrical systems to perform well in this role
Cable installers are in charge of installing data and voice cable systems for business and residential television systems, home routers, and other devices. This may include digging and setting ground cables or working on poles to install or repair any cable equipment.
This career opportunity allows cable installers to use their skills to diagnose and assess any problems that may arise in residential electrical systems. These systems are complicated and it takes an experienced cable installer to identify and learn the correct codes to help the cable framework to run smoothly.
Sample job description #1
ABC Company is seeking a Cable Installer to perform installations, maintenance, and repair of telecommunications systems.
This technician will be responsible for
- Fiber Optic structured cable distribution system installation
- Ability to terminate all forms of fiber by various methods familiarity with fiber connector types and manufacturers, experience testing single-mode and multi-mode fiber installations, experience with OTDR testing and fiber optic troubleshooting, pulling cable, fire stopping, dressing cables and labeling to industry standards. Installing, terminating, and testing all forms of copper and fiber cabling
- Installing closet hardware including backboards, connecting blocks, racks, patch panels, and fiber enclosures
- Attending training and safety meetings, and working safely at all times
Requirements
- Direct related experience (cabling, construction trades)
- Proven experience as a fiber optic specialist BICSI Installer/Technician certification highly desired
- Reliable daily travel to work-sites
- Must be able to work safely following company policy/procedures on safety
- Conduct network configuration and able to perform network troubleshooting
- Previous duties as team lead
- AA/AS
- 5+ years experience
- TS/SCI REQUIRED
- Must have a TS/SCI Clearance and the ability to obtain Poly
- Must be capable of physical activity, including maneuvering around the building including comms closets, prolonged standing, repetitive bending, climbing, and lifting of 50lbs +
Sample job description #2
Job duties
- Performs installation, maintenance, and repair of telecommunications systems
- Fiber Optic structured cable distribution system installation
- Ability to terminate all forms of fiber by various methods familiarity with fiber connector types and manufacturers, experience testing single-mode and multi-mode fiber installations, experience with OTDR testing and fiber optic troubleshooting, pulling cable, fire stopping, dressing cables and labeling to industry standards
- Installing, terminating, and testing all forms of copper and fiber cabling
- Installing closet hardware including backboards, connecting blocks, racks, patch panels and fiber enclosures
- Attending training and safety meetings, and working safely at all times
Job requirements
- Direct related experience (cabling, construction trades)
- Proven experience as a fiber optic specialist BICSI Installer/Technician certification highly desired
- Reliable daily travel to work-sites
- Must be able to work safely following company policy/procedures on safety
- Conduct network configuration and able to perform network troubleshooting
- Previous duties as team lead
- Must be capable of physical activity, including maneuvering around the building including comms closets, prolonged standing, repetitive bending, climbing, and lifting of 50lbs+
Standard characteristics
- Builds and installs cable patch panels and cable infrastructures
- Installs and terminates all types of standard IT cable and fiber
- Provides equipment rack installation and equipment installations within a variety of locations that includes, but is not limited to, data centers, equipment rooms, communications closets, operations centers, and user workspaces
Skills and tasks
- Follows established processes and checklists
- Understand and applies basic concepts
- Assists more senior level technicians, specialists, and managers in their activities
Education and experience
- High School Diploma
Sample job description #3
Key job duties:
- Perform new connections, reconnects, upgrades, and disconnects for residential television, internet, and phone services
- Troubleshoot all services up to WOW Cable standards and specifications
- Installations could include relocating cable outlets, adding converters and modems, and interior and exterior wiring paths
- Provide first-class customer service including detailed customer education on all products
Minimum qualifications:
- HS Diploma or equivalent
- Fiber experience is a plus, but not required
- Must pass an extensive background check and pre-employment drug screen
- Able to lift and carry up to 80 lbs. on a consistent basis
- Flexible to work 5-6 days per week, including nights and holidays
Average salary and compensation
The average salary for a Cable Installer is $49,900 in the United States. Position salary will vary based on experience, education, company size, industry, and market.
| Location | Salary Low | Salary High |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix, Arizona | $49,650 | $67,150 |
| Los Angeles, California | $56,000 | $75,750 |
| Denver, Colorado | $46,650 | $63,100 |
| Washington, DC | $56,850 | $76,900 |
| Miami, Florida | $46,450 | $62,850 |
| Orlando, Florida | $42,850 | $57,950 |
| Tampa, Florida | $43,250 | $58,550 |
| Atlanta, Georgia | $45,400 | $61,400 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $52,150 | $70,600 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $56,400 | $76,300 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota | $44,950 | $60,850 |
| New York City, New York | $59,400 | $80,350 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $48,350 | $65,400 |
| Dallas, Texas | $47,100 | $63,700 |
| Houston, Texas | $46,650 | $63,100 |
| Seattle, Washington | $54,300 | $73,450 |
| National Average | $42,400 | $57,400 |
Sample interview questions
- How do you stay up to date with the latest cable and equipment technology?
- What electrical equipment are you familiar with?
- How do you prevent outages?
- How do you organize your workload to ensure all cables are installed in a timely manner?
- Tell me about your past experience as a cable installer.
- What was the worst outage you’ve experienced? How did you get everything back online?
- How do you handle disgruntled customers?
- Are there any pieces of equipment we use that you’re unfamiliar with?
- Are you okay with heights or hazardous work conditions?
- What are the most important safety rules when installing cable?
