Telecommunications Installer Careers & Salary Information
Telecom installers set up and maintain telephone, internet, cable TV, and fiber optic lines and equipment. With fiber buildouts expanding across the country, demand for qualified installers continues to grow.
National Salary Overview
Telecommunications Installer Specialties
Telecommunications Installers can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Fiber Optic Splicer
Splices and terminates fiber optic cables for telecommunications networks. Specialized skill with growing demand as fiber broadband expands nationwide.
Cable Technician
Installs and services cable TV, internet, and phone service at customer locations. Entry-level telecom role with plenty of jobs.
Tower Climber
Installs and maintains antennas and equipment on cell towers, broadcast towers, and rooftops. Hazardous work at extreme heights that commands a pay premium.
Network Technician
Installs and maintains structured cabling, switches, and routers for enterprise and carrier networks. Bridges telecom field work with IT networking.
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Telecommunications Installer Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Telecommunications Installer salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level telecommunications installers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level telecommunications installers in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union telecommunications installers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified telecommunications installer depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Telecommunications Installer work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified telecommunications installers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a telecommunications installer's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.