Career Definition for a Satellite Technician
A satellite technician performs the technical duties required to install, maintain and upgrade residential satellite products and maximize the service they provide. Technicians are also called upon to troubleshoot problems, as well as handle customer complaints and questions. The satellite technician is ideally someone who does not mind working outside and is able to climb and comfortably handle working with electrical equipment and often at great heights.
| Education | Certificate or associate degree in electronic technology installation preferred |
| Job Skills | Problem solving, customer service, communication |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $60,370 for telecommunications installers and repairers |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 8% for telecommunications installers and repairers |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
Typically, the employer of a satellite technician will prefer a candidate with both a professional background and either a certificate in electronic technology installation from a secondary vocational school or a similar 2-year degree from a community college. Though much of the coursework provides hands-on experience, there are also classes that offer a theoretical education in consumer electronics. Some entry-level positions are designed like apprenticeships, in which new technicians will work closely with an experienced technician for effective on-the-job training. Many companies will also offer certification programs for new technicians looking to advance from their entry-level positions.
Skills Required
Along with technical experience, employers look for applicants with strong problem solving and customer service skills. Often times, satellite technicians will need to speak directly with customers who may not know the technical details of satellite technology As a result, technicians are expected to possess excellent communication skills in addition to their mechanical acumen.
Career and Economic Outlook
In a similar fashion to other consumer-based industries, the satellite technician's opportunity to advance within his field is entirely dependent on the condition of the economy. During difficult economic times, companies may find that it is more cost efficient to replace equipment than to repair it, which allows for fewer jobs and smaller technical staff. Satellite technicians should expect to earn a similar wage to that of telecommunications equipment installers and repairers (excluding line installers). According to research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May of 2021, these installers and repairers had a median salary of $60,370 per year. Job growth from 2021-2031 is expected to increase by 8%.
Alternate Career Options
For other options in electronics maintenance and installation, choose from the following careers:
Line Installer and Repairer
Often learning their skills through technical instruction, training on the job and apprenticeships, these installers and repairers, also called line workers, repair and install telecommunications cables and electrical power systems. Electrical power-line installers and repairers were paid a median annual wage of $74,530 in 2021, according to the BLS. From 2021-2031, the BLS projected a l6% change in employment for line installers and repairers.
Broadcast and Sound Engineering Technician
These techs normally earn a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree to secure employment operating the equipment for broadcasts, movies, recordings and concerts. Average job growth of 10% was predicted by the BLS, during the 2021-2031 decade, and an median salary of $48,790 per year was reported in 2021 for broadcast and sound engineering technicians and radio operators.
