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How do I Become a Cable TV Installer?

Harriette Halepis
Harriette Halepis

The best way to become a cable TV installer is to gain experience within the field. This can be achieved through an internship with a cable company, or by gaining applicable academic training. While you don't need extensive academics in order to install cable TV, having a basic grasp of mathematics and physics will help your job application to stand out among the rest.

Many cable companies throughout the world offer internship and training programs for future cable installers. In fact, almost all companies prefer that installers have intimate knowledge of specific company networks. By enrolling in one of these programs, you will be able to become a cable TV installer for a specific company. In addition to the successful completion of a training program, you must also have a high school diploma.

Coaxial cable is typically used during cable TV installation.
Coaxial cable is typically used during cable TV installation.

If you happen to be in high school right now, then it is within your interest to enroll in advanced mathematics and physics courses. While these course are not required in order to become a cable TV installer, many employers look for candidates with advanced academic training. If you wish to secure a job within the cable field without any type of internship training, then you may want to consider obtaining an associate's degree. Many different colleges and universities around the world offer associate's degrees that focus upon installation techniques and skills.

Gaining experience in the field is the best way to become a cable TV and Internet service installer.
Gaining experience in the field is the best way to become a cable TV and Internet service installer.

Generally, most cable TV installers spend at least three months as interns before applying for a full-time cable installer position. By combining a solid academic background with a positive internship experience, you can become an installer. To search for an internship position, begin by contacting local cable companies. If an internship program is not offered, find out if you can work with a company installer as an apprentice for a few months.

Many cable companies offer internship programs for future cable installers.
Many cable companies offer internship programs for future cable installers.

To find a permanent position within a cable company, begin by contacting local companies directly. Also, take the time to scour newspaper job listings, Internet job sites, and even listings posted by job placement agencies. The salary of a cable TV installer tends to fluctuate according to company and location, though this type of job is a steady one that often includes benefits.

In addition to having the proper training, you will also have to have excellent communication skills. Since installers speak with customers on a regular basis, it helps to have a charismatic personality. By following the steps listed above, you can become a cable tv installer within a short amount of time.

Discussion Comments

cruzzdave

@anon926449: I was just promoted to training manager for contractors. There is no training program in place. I have to build one from the ground up. Any ideas where to start, get training materials or manuals? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

anon927802

I am currently a trainer in cable TV. I have been in cable TV for 44 years. For this job you need: the ability to show up on time, be willing to learn about new equipment and methods, have a basic knowledge of electronics, have a working knowledge of TV sets, modems and routers.

You will be trained by the cable TV Operator or cable TV contractor during a three to six week time period. You must be comfortable 18' up on a pole with a ladder.

If you are a high school graduate or have a GED, this is the job for you. If you have a four-year degree from a college that does not have a jingle, this is not your job.

Warning! Cable TV Techs after about age 50 are very rare. If you want to stay in cable TV past this age, you had better be a supervisor.

anon926449

Here is a list of what you need to be a cable installer (most commonly referred to as broadband technicians): Good attitude, good work ethic, great communication skills, basic knowledge of home construction, comfortable working with hand tools, ability to work with little to no supervision, strong learning aptitude.

anon116278

I was in cable television technical management for 17 years with three different major MSOs. Both union and non-union shops. I never once used or saw an installation intern. I can't imagine where you got that information.

Cable installers are generally hired as trainees and have a "probationary" period of around 90 days, where they are expected to learn the job by formal training and/or working with an experienced installer.

They receive full pay during this period. While a basic grasp of mathematics and physics is good, a candidate with an electronics and/or computer background is very desirable.

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    • Coaxial cable is typically used during cable TV installation.
      By: jeffrey van daele
      Coaxial cable is typically used during cable TV installation.
    • Gaining experience in the field is the best way to become a cable TV and Internet service installer.
      By: kjekol
      Gaining experience in the field is the best way to become a cable TV and Internet service installer.
    • Many cable companies offer internship programs for future cable installers.
      By: auremar
      Many cable companies offer internship programs for future cable installers.