FAQ
Telecommunications Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a telecommunications technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a telecommunications technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about telecommunications technicians
Do telecom technicians need a degree?
Usually a certificate or provider training.
Are fiber skills in demand?
Yes, especially with broadband expansion.
Is the job outdoors?
It’s a mix of indoor and outdoor work.
How much does a telecommunications technician make?
The median annual wage for telecommunications technicians was $63,890 ($30.72 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $44,240 and the highest 10% earned more than $96,730.
How long does it take to become a telecommunications technician?
Most people need about 3–12 months of training. A postsecondary certificate in electronics or telecommunications is common. Many providers train new technicians on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a telecommunications technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is telecommunications technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -3.3% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 11,300 openings each year. Upsides include steady demand for broadband; a common challenge is that ladders, attics and crawl spaces.
What skills does a telecommunications technician need?
Key technical skills include fiber optic splicing and testing, copper and coax termination, network equipment configuration, and signal testing. Employers also value customer service, problem solving, and independence.
What certifications are available for telecommunications technicians?
Common credentials include Fiber Optic Association CFOT, BICSI Installer, CompTIA Network+, and SCTE certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Telecommunications Technician fit quiz, compare with Cell Tower Technician, or explore Telecommunications Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-2022 (Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, except line installers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, except line installers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.