Telecommunications Installer-Technicians install circuits and equipment for telephones, computer networks, video distribution systems, security and access control systems, and other low voltage systems. Major duties for Telecommunications Installer-Technicians include:

• Planning and Initiating Projects
• Installing Underground Voice or Data Circuit Feeders to Entrance Facilities
• Providing or Connecting to the Grounding Electrode System
• Installing Pathways and Spaces for Installation of Low Voltage Wiring
• Installing and Terminating Wires and Cables
• Installing Local Area Network (LAN) Cabling Systems Installing Security and Access Control Systems
• Installing Communications and Sound Distribution Systems
• Testing and Repairing Video, Voice, and Data Systems

In performing these duties, Telecommunications Installer-Technicians must use many different kinds of tools, ranging from simple ones and two-hand tools (such as screwdrivers and cable cutters) to power-assisted tools like electric drills and screw guns. They occasionally operate heavy equipment such as trenchers.

Over the course of the three-year Telecommunications Installer-Technicians apprenticeship program, apprentices must become competent in many technical areas. A recent job analysis identified 124 specific areas of knowledge that are important for Telecommunications Installer-Technicians’ job performance. A few of the most important ones are knowledge of:

• Color Codes (Proper Termination Sequence)
• Structured Wiring
• Cable Testing Requirements and Standards
• Local Area Networks (LAN)
• The Basics of Telephony
• Blueprints, Including Symbols Used
• Electronic Industries Association (EIA)/Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) Standards
• The Principles of Grounding
• First Aid
• Hazardous Materials
• Proper Wire/Cable to Use in Different Circumstances

Some of the most important skills to be learned are:

• Skill at Terminating Twisted Pair Cable
• Skill at Terminating Fiber Optic Cable
• Skill at Troubleshooting Through Segmentation and Isolation
• Skill at Diagnosing the Source of Equipment Malfunctions
• Skill at Splicing Copper, Coaxial and Fiber Optic Cable
• Skill at Performing CPR