Radio / Cellular / Tower Equipment Installer / Repairer

Repair, install, or maintain mobile or stationary radio transmitting, broadcasting, and receiving equipment, and two-way radio communications systems used in cellular telecommunications, mobile broadband, ship-to-shore, aircraft-to-ground communications, and radio equipment in service and emergency vehicles. May test and analyze network coverage.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Communications Systems Technician; Field Service Technician (Field Service Tech); Field Technician (Field Tech); Installation Technician (Installation Tech); Radio Frequency Technician (RF Tech); Radio Repairman; Radio Technician (Radio Tech); Tower Technician (Tower Tech); Two-Way Radio Technician (Two-Way Radio Tech)

Tasks

• Inspect completed work to ensure all hardware is tight, antennas are level, hangers are properly fastened, proper support is in place, or adequate weather proofing has been installed.
• Run appropriate power, ground, or coaxial cables.
• Test operation of tower transmission components, using sweep testing tools or software.
• Install all necessary transmission equipment components, including antennas or antenna mounts, surge arrestors, transmission lines, connectors, or tower-mounted amplifiers (TMAs).
• Read work orders, blueprints, plans, datasheets or site drawings to determine work to be done.
• Replace existing antennas with new antennas as directed.
• Bolt equipment into place, using hand or power tools.
• Install, connect, or test underground or aboveground grounding systems.
• Complete reports related to project status, progress, or other work details, using computer software.
• Check antenna positioning to ensure specified azimuths or mechanical tilts and adjust as necessary.
• Transport equipment to work sites, using utility trucks and equipment trailers.
• Take site survey photos or photos of work performed, using digital cameras.

Knowledge

• Computers and Electronics
• Customer and Personal Service
• Telecommunications
• Mechanical
• Administration and Management
• Engineering and Technology
• English Language
• Public Safety and Security
• Mathematics
• Communications and Media

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Active Learning

Abilities

• Problem Sensitivity
• Near Vision
• Deductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Oral Comprehension
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Speech Recognition
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Perceptual Speed
• Control Precision
• Extent Flexibility
• Speech Clarity
• Written Expression
• Visualization
• Selective Attention
• Far Vision