Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers

The workers who are in charge with setting up and maintenance equipments such as electronic switches, radio transmitters, and radio receivers are called Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers. They are also responsible in data, video and graphic transmissions. They generally work indoors but work injuries such as electric shock and burns are common.

Switches, cable hubs and other equipments are usually set up in central offices by the Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers. The telecommunications network contains switches and routers which functions in transmitting, processing and amplifying a large amount of information to the desired destinations. The lines used here are fiber optic, which has increased line of transmission as compared to the traditional copper lines. Only those with high level of technical knowledge like the Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers can perform the function. Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers are likewise in charge in diagnosis of problems related to telecommunications equipment. They are the once who understands the process of interaction of software and hardware. Newly developed equipments are repaired easily because the board and parts are easily removed and replaced.

Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers normally are working in a well-lighted and clean workplace. Telephone installers and repairers are seen on telephone poles, ladders and rooftops. Radio repairers are usually on transmission towers. Working outdoors may be hazardous. The workers encounter changes in weather conditions. Majority of Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers are full-time workers. For those workers working in larger companies, work schedules are irregular, depending on the number of repairs needed in a regular twenty-four hour day. Sometimes installation and maintenance are requested after the regular working hour. That is why Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers work by shifts everyday, even during holidays and weekends. Even workers who are not scheduled on a particular shift can be called for work in emergency cases.

Employers require Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers to have secondary training in electronics and preferably with basic computer knowledge. Training can be a two year or a four year program. Those who have communications equipment experience with the military is highly regarded by employers. Exposure to the daily work provides better training for workers. Some can incorporate formal training inside the classrooms complete with hand-on training. A continuous training is needed by Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers to be updated with latest technology.

In the coming years, there will be a decline in demand for Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers. Maintenance work will be minimal due to increased reliability to equipments that are self-diagnosing and self-monitoring, and also due to the reduced quantity of equipment needed brought about by the use of high-capacity equipment.