Fibre Optic Technician

What does a fibre optic technician do?As a fibre optic technician, you will install and maintain fibre optic telecommunications, such as broadband, mobile and landline phone networks, and digital systems.The job role of a fibre optic technician involves the following duties:Set up fibre optic telecommunication and data networks Lay underground and underfloor fibre optic cabling Test systems and find and fix any faults Design, build and test fibre optic equipment Liaise with customers in person, on the phone or online Maintain detailed records of each job Working in clients’ homes or businesses Working outdoors in all weathers. How to become a fibre optic technicianThere are multiple routes to becoming a fibre optic technician. You could complete a college course or an apprenticeship.You should explore these routes to becoming a fibre optic technician to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.College/training providerThere Are Various College Courses You Could Take To Help You On Your Journey To Becoming a Fibre Optic Technician, Such As aLevel 2 Certificate in Communications Cabling Level 3 Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles Level 3 Diploma in Telecommunication Systems. Equivalent entry requirements explained Find a course near you Funding advice ApprenticeshipYou could train to become a fibre optic technician by completing an intermediate apprenticeship as a telecoms field operative, or an advanced apprenticeship as a communications technician or cable installer.Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.Guide to apprenticeshipsWork experienceWork experience is essential to gaining employment within the industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a fibre optic technician. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.Find out more about work experienceSkillsAdditional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a fibre optic technician include: Knowledge of telecommunications Understanding of technical operating systems Ability to use your initiative Excellent attention to detail Excellent customer service skills Good mathematical abilities Logical thinking skills.QualificationsTo become a fibre optic technician, you could complete a:Level 2 NVQ in Communications CablingLevel 2 Telecoms Field Operative ApprenticeshipTo become a fibre optic technician, you could complete a:SVQ Level 3 Information Technology and TelecommunicationsSCQF Level 6 Information Technology and TelecommunicationsTo become a fibre optic technician, you could complete a:Level 2 NVQ in Communications CablingLevel 2 Telecoms Field Operative ApprenticeshipHow much could you earn as a fibre optic technician?The expected salary for a fibre optic technician varies as you become more experienced. Newly trained fibre optic technicians can start at £24,000 Trained with experience fibre optic technicians can earn up to £48,000*Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources