Fiber Optics Technicians
Overview
Introduction
Fiber optics technicians work with the optical fibers and cables used in transmitting communications data. Depending on the area of employment, technicians splice fibers, fuse fibers together, and install fiber cables beneath the ground and in buildings. These technicians work for telecommunications and cable companies, and other businesses involved in telecommunications. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that approximately 122,700 telecommunications line installers and repairers, including fiber optics technicians, are employed ...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Telecommunications line installers and repairers, including fiber optics technicians, had median annual earnings of $58,280 in May 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Ten percent earned less than $30,950, and 10 percent earned $92,440 or more per year.
Companies offer a variety of benefit packages, which can include any of the following: paid holidays, vacations, and sick da...
Work Environment
Fiber optics technicians who work as assemblers spend most of their time sitting at a bench. Technicians who work as installers usually work out in the field installing fiber beneath the ground. There is little physical exertion required because machinery is used to dig the trenches. Fiber optics technicians spend part of their time outside repairing fiber, and part of their time in a van prepa...
Outlook
Little change in employment is expected for telecommunications line installers and repairers through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The DOL reports that "as the population grows and customers increasingly demand enhanced connectivity, installers will continue to build out and provide newer and faster telephone, cable, and Internet services. However, growth may be limited...