Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Job Description & Career Opportunities

Radio and telecommunications equipment installation and repair workers are responsible for repairing a wide range of equipment. Many specialize in regards to a specific type of equipment.Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Job Responsibilities

Workers employed at central offices are hubs perform some of the most complex type of work. Switch hubs contain the routers and switches that direct the actual information to their final destinations. Repairers and installers are responsible for setting up those routers and switches. Increasing technology has now made it possible for switches to actually alert a central office repair worker of the presence of a malfunction. In some cases it is possible to diagnose as well as correct malfunctions from a remote location. This type of technology is also becoming common in telecommunications and cable television. Cable television distribution centers are known as headends. Technicians employed in headends perform much of the same type of work as a central office technician; however, they are employed in the cable television field.

When a problem occurs with telecommunications equipment it is the job of a repairer to diagnose the source of the malfunction. This is done by testing each equipment part. As a result, the worker must understand the way in which the hardware and software interact. In order to locate the source of the issue, the worker must often utilize network analyzers, spectrum analyzers or in some cases both to detect any type of distortion that may be present in the signal. They may use hand tools to repair the equipment, which might include screwdrivers and pliers. Newer equipment tends to be easier to repair because parts and boards are designed to be removed and replaced quickly. A repairer may also install programs or updated software.

A PBX installer and repairer is responsible for setting up private branch exchange or PBX switchboards. These switchboards relay outgoing, interoffice and incoming telephone calls within a single organization or location. They must first connect equipment to the communications cables and power lines in order to install the switches as well as the switchboards. In addition they must test the connection to be certain that a sufficient amount of power is present and that all communication links are properly working. Other job duties include installing equipment like telephone sets, alarms and power systems. Workers may also install equipment for specific features. Finally, the worker will perform a variety of tests to ensure that the equipment is functioning as it should. In the event of a problem, a PBX repairer will determine whether the problem is present in the PBX system or whether it is coming from telephone lines that are maintained by a local telephone company.

A station installer or home installer is responsible for installing and repairing telecommunications equipment and wiring within a business or home. They may install VoIP, Internet, telephone or other communications services by either connecting wiring that is already in existence to outside lines or installing new wiring inside the premises.

A radio mechanic is responsible for installing and maintaining radio transmission and receiving equipment. Such equipment is typically mounted on a transmission tower or on a tall building. This can include two-way communications systems that are found in airplanes, taxis, emergency vehicles and ships. New types of radio equipment are actually self-monitoring and can alert mechanics to a potential malfunction.
Telecommunications and radio installers and repairers typically work in areas that are air-conditioned, well lit and clean. In some cases they may need to travel to a service center or client’s location. Radio mechanics may often need to work on towers which can involve working at significant heights. This type of work can involve crawling, crouching, stooping, reaching and lifting. Most workers in this industry work full time. Some may need to work in the evenings or on weekends in order to meet client needs.

Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Training and Education Requirements

It has become increasingly common for employers to require postsecondary education in computer technology and electronics for entry into this field. A bachelor’s degree is usually required for more complex work.

Individuals employed in this field may advance by gaining experience and additional education. Some employer may provide initial on the job training. Formal classroom training typically involves communications systems, electronics and software in addition to hands on training while working with an experienced repair technician.

Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Salary and Wages

In 2008 the median yearly earnings for telecommunications equipment repairers and installers were $55,600, excluding line installers. Radio mechanics had median yearly earnings of $40,260.*

*According to the BLS, http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Certifications

Marine and aviation radio mechanics are required to obtain licensure through the Federal Communications Commission prior to working on aviation or marine radios. Licensure involves passing multiple exams on electronics fundamentals, radio law and maintenance practices. Certification can improve employment opportunities for all other fields in this industry. Certifications are offered through the Society of Cable and Telecommunications Engineers as well as the Telecommunications Industry Association.

Radio and Telecommunications Equipment Installation and Repair Professional Associations

Professional associations for workers in this industry include the Communications Workers of America as well as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

General Maintenance and Repair Job Description & Career Opportunities

General maintenance and repair workers are diversely trained in a number of different areas. They can maintain and repair a variety of machinery, plumbing, electrical and heating and air systems. They can also work in carpentry and handle work for a variety of businesses such as hospitals, schools, factories and stores. On the job, they may do general woodwork, such as building partitions and repair work for doors, floors, railings and windowsills. Electrical problems may require this worker to do work on air-conditioners, working with malfunctioning electrical switches and dealing with computer technology that controls the building’s heating and air system. Being organized and willing to continually learn are essential to this job as the worker may have to deal with changing technology in new machinery on a regular basis.

General Maintenance and Repair Job Responsibilities

In order to do the vast amount of repair work required, general maintenance and repair workers have to consult manuals, blueprints and order parts from catalogs. The tools they use in their work can vary from simple hand tools, such as screwdrivers and hammers, up to power tools that include drills and tablesaws. Part of the job as well is keeping accurate records of repairs done, routine maintenance procedures completed and items that required the work. The work environment requires a lot of standing for extended periods of time, working on ladders, in small spaces and in places that may be hot or cold to a greater degree. Physical stamina and strength are essentials as its individual may have to do a lot of heavy lifting and moving of various objects.

These workers also need to have strong mechanical and technical skills. Being able to problem solve on a daily basis in a variety of situations is required for the diverse number of problems that this individual will have to deal with. Working without constant supervision may occur in certain positions, so the worker will need to be able to complete tasks in a timely manner and stay focused on the job.

General Maintenance and Repair Training and Education Requirements

Training for this position is normally done while working as an assistant in an informal setting. As they began work, the worker is given very basic tasks to do, such as working with a faucet that is leaking, changing out light bulbs and over time are given more responsibility. Many workers can become diversified in their knowledge and skills by serving as an assistant in various trades, including construction, electrical work and plumbing. It can take anywhere from a few months to a full year before the individual is able to work in this position. Someone wanting to work in this field can start to prepare during high school will by taking classes in math, computers, electricity and woodworking. Another option is to attend a vocational school or a technical program at a local community college that offers classes in these areas.

General Maintenance and Repair Salary and Wages

Job opportunities for general maintenance and repair workers, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, has a probable growth of at least 11% by the year 2018. Many positions will become open as older workers retire or when others leave the profession. Those with the best chances for employment are those who pursue certification and diverse training. The average hourly pay is at $16.21, with the highest at or above $25.94 and the lowest at or below $9.78. Some of the highest paying positions can be found in local government jobs.*
*According to the BLS, http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Workers can advance to higher positions with training and certification to be supervisors or specialists in areas such as plumbing, heating and air or to work as an electrician. Certification can open the past two higher pay, better positions and advancement.

General Maintenance and Repair Certifications

Workers can receive certification from the International Management Institute, who offers certifications in three different areas: Certified Maintenance Technician, Certified Maintenance Professional and Certified Maintenance Manager. Going from basic to highest level, these certifications cover areas including electricity, skills in problem solving, math and blueprint reading. To gain one of these levels, the worker has to meet certain requirements and pass a written test.

Certain positions, such as those requiring plumbing tasks, may require licensure by the state or local area that the individual works in. The worker should check for the legal requirements where they work to make sure that they are carrying the correct license.

General Maintenance and Repair Professional Associations

The International Maintenance Institute offers certification opportunities to workers in the field. The Society for Maintenance and Reliability of Professionals, which is located in McLean, Virginia. This organization also supports its members by offering certification opportunities, educational resources and various publications. Workers can join at seven different levels, and take advantage of the many opportunities that they offer. There is even a scholarship provided to members for training.

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Job Description & Career Opportunities

Electronic home entertainment installers and repairers, who are also known as service technicians, are responsible for installing and repairing a wide variety of different types of video and audio equipment. They may choose to specialize in one particular type of equipment or they may be trained to work on many types of equipment. The most common types of equipment include radios and televisions, stereos, video cameras and digital video disc players. Other job duties include installing and repairing satellite TV dishes as well as home theater systems. This can include large screen TVs and surround sound components.

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Job Responsibilities

Products are typically brought to repair shops by customers. Workers employed at such locations are referred to as bench technicians. In the case of large equipment that is not as mobile, technicians may need to come to the home of a customer to make the repair. These technicians are referred to as field technicians. In the event the project is too complex, the technician may bring the components that are defection back to the repair shop to diagnose and repair them.

When equipment is malfunctioning, the repairer will check the equipment for defective components. If a routine check is not able to locate the source of the problem, the technician may refer to specifications and schematics from the manufacturer to locate the problem. Technicians may use a wide array of different types of equipment to diagnose as well identify the source of the malfunction. A repair may also involve the removal and replacement of failed fuses, which can involve using small hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches and soldering irons. Technicians may also need to make adjustments like fine tuning picture quality for a television or the sound on an audio system.

Most technicians work in repair shops that are well lit. Field technicians spend much of their time traveling to the residences of customers in service vehicles.

The employment outlook for this field is anticipated to grow about as fast as all other occupations. Employment prospects will be best for candidates who are certified, had a broad knowledge of electronics, associated work experience and excellent customer service skills. The increase of sales of home entertainment systems and equipment will drive the demand within this field. Due to the fact that the prices for home entertainment equipment have declined, the need for technicians is expected to increase at a slow rate. Technology has improved equipment reliability. Consequently the demand for services involving repair has also declined. When a problem does occur it is usually less expensive for consumers to simply replace the equipment than to pay for a repair.
Most technicians work a standard 40 hour work week. Depending on where they are employed, evening and weekend work may sometimes be necessary in order to meet the needs of customers. This can be common in retail establishments as well as with field technicians who must travel to the residence of customers to make repairs. While technicians who work in retail establishments may need to rarely if ever travel, it is a routine part of the job for field technicians. Overtime may also sometimes be necessary, depending on where the technician is employed. Most job opportunities stem from retail establishments.

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Training and Education Requirements

Employers typically prefer applicants who have extensive knowledge of electronics as well as excellent problem solving skills and previous experience involving making repairs. Excellent customer service skills are also important for field technicians. Most applicants will gain necessary skills at community colleges and vocational-training programs. Training programs may include both theoretical education and hands-on experience. Field technicians usually must have a driver’s license and excellent driving record if they are to drive a company vehicle, particularly for insurance purposes. Workers with increased education and experience may advance to supervisory positions or open their own repair shops.

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Salary and Wages

In 2008 the median hourly earnings for electronic home entertainment equipment repairers and installers were $15.42 per hour. Wages and salary can depend upon the employer, geographic location and education and experience level. Certification can provide improved employment opportunities and the chance to earn higher wages.*

*According to the BLS, http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Certifications

Certification is offered for entry-level technicians as well as experienced workers interested in advancement. An increasing number of employers are now requiring technicians to be certified. Certification is offered through a number of different organizations including the Electronics Technicians Association, which offers programs for certification in multiple electronics specialties. Certification for multimedia and electronic systems is offered through the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians. In order to achieve certification, candidates must meet multiple prerequisites as well as pass an online or written exam. Improved job prospects can be gained through certification, particularly in multiple areas of this field.

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installation and Repair Professional Associations

Professional associations for electronic home entertainment equipment repair and installation workers include the Electronics Technicians Association International and the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians.

Coin, Vending and Amusement Machine Service and Repair Job Description & Career Opportunities

Coin, amusement and vending machines have become extremely common today and are situated in a variety of different locations including casinos, convenience shops, arcades and other businesses. These coins, which are activated by coins, provide an array of services such as entertainment, food and drink and lottery tickets. Servicers are responsible for installing, repairing and stocking these machines. A vending machine servicer may also be known as a route driver and is responsible for caring for and stocking the machine. Job duties may also include collecting money and replacing product labels. They are also responsible for ensuring the machine remains clean and attractive.

Coin, Vending and Amusement Machine Service and Repair Job Responsibilities

Workers who repair such machines may also be known as mechanics or technicians. They are responsible for ensuring the machine functions effectively. Some complex machines may be more complex and involve electronic and electrical components. When working on these machines, technicians must exercise extreme care. While installing vending, amusement and coin machines workers must also frequently make sure that electricity and water are properly connected. Job responsibilities also include ensuring that all components work in accordance with local electrical and plumbing regulations. As many machines contain drink or food, technicians must also make sure they follow all local and state sanitation and health guidelines.

Arcade game machines such as video games, pinball machines and slot machines are frequently serviced by those servicers specializing in those specific types of machines. They must make sure that all machine parts are properly functioning, which can include levers, joysticks and buttons. They must also make certain that all games are played in a fair manner. They may need to repair or replace worn parts, make certain selections are kept up to date and possibly rebuild the machine in some instances. Those workers who handle machines that dispense lottery tickets as well as those who work on slot machines must ensure they comply with state and federal regulations related to the gaming industry.

When checking machines for malfunctions, a technician will usually first check for the most common problems such as wires that are disconnected or problems related to the bill/coin acceptor. Hand held devices may be used to identify the source of problems. In some cases a new circuit board may need to be installed. In the event a problem cannot be easily identified, the technician may need to rely on technical manuals or test the equipment.

A small business will commonly utilize the same worker to stock and service vending machines. They may be responsible for collecting money, stocking the machine and performing repairs as needed. In some cases administrative duties may also be necessary, such as completing cost estimates related to the parts that are necessary for repair and ordering parts as needed. Tracking inventory on a daily basis may also be required along with accounting for money collected.

Employment in this field is expected to increase through the year 2012, due to the increase expected in the use of these types of machines. Other positions will become available as the industry grows and workers either retire or leave the industry voluntarily. Growth in the industry will be further spurred by an increase in the number of machines that will be installed in hospitals, factories, schools and stores in order to keep pace with the demand from the public for fast, inexpensive snacks. The variety for the type of products that is distributed by such machines is also expected to continue expanding. Arcades, amusement centers and casinos are also growing in popularity for placement of these machines as is the use of coin operated devices for dispensing lottery tickets.
Coin, Vending and Amusement Machine Service and Repair Training and Education Requirements

Individuals who are interested in entering this career field can usually do so by learning the trade through work experience. Entry-level workers commonly gain hands-on experience by working under the supervision of an experienced worker. Most employers look for candidates who have a high school diploma. Vocational or high school courses in refrigeration, electricity and machine repair can be helpful. Employers may test candidates to determine mechanical skill levels.

Honesty is considered to be an extremely important characteristic in this industry as workers may need to handle and collect hundreds or even thousands of dollars in cash and inventory. Workers must also be able to interact politely with customers. A clean driving record and valid driver’s license is required for workers who will have a route. In some cases servicers may need to be bonded.

Coin, Vending and Amusement Machine Service and Repair Salary and Wages

The average wage in 2002 for machinery mechanics was $18.26 per hour. Type of employer, geographic location, experience and education can impact earnings.*

*According to the BLS, http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Coin, Vending and Amusement Machine Service and Repair Certifications

The National Automatic Merchandising Association offers an independent study program for entry into this field. Upon completion of the program, candidates must take a written exam in order to obtain certification as a journeyman.

Professional Associations

Professional associations for this industry may include unions that extend to mechanics.