Cable television service technicians maintain the links that supply us with daily entertainment and news. The install, repair and test the cable system that carries television and data signals to homes and offices.
In carrying out this job, you first decide which of the cable outlets in a building are to be hooked up. Then, you connect the main cable from the street. With an existing connection, you determine if there is a fault and trace it for repair. This often means climbing poles and rooftops, or going underground into vaults or tunnels.
The job is not all technical. After each assignment, you have to file a report that describes what was done. You are also responsible for the company's vehicles, tools and equipment.
Dealing with customers is a key part of the job too, since you do represent your company to them.
The work is physically demanding. You must be able to climb poles and ladders while carrying tools and equipment. And you work in all kinds of weather, sometimes in awkward positions.
These hardships may be the very thing that makes the job interesting if you enjoy physical labour and working out of doors. You may appreciate the travel involved in driving from one customer to another. You meet different people in different places. As a cable television service technician, you are paid and hourly wage, the level dependent on the years of experience in the job.
Cable television is an expanding industry which offers excellent opportunities for advancement. Rapidly changing technology means that you may have the chance to change jobs regularly. For instance, optical fiber is emerging as a new communications medium, and this may be an area you are asked to explore.
Employers are looking for individuals who can work both on their own, and as part of a team. You must be interested in technical matters, take pride in your work and enjoy working with the public. Good communication skills are essential. To service clients and keep them happy, you have to be outgoing and articulate.
In the field, there are no supervisors to make decisions. You have to be motivated to find the problem and fix it quickly. To get ahead, you should be willing to develop your understanding of new techniques and equipment. Think of the job as an ongoing educational experience.