Satellite Systems Technician
What is the work like?
As a satellite systems technician, you would install, repair and replace telecommunications equipment, communication networks, and fixed and motorised satellite systems.
Your work could range from installing new systems and upgrading existing set-ups for a business, to repairing and realigning equipment after storm damage on a domestic property.
Your duties could include:
- carrying out site surveys to prepare job quotes
- planning cabling networks
- installing and fixing aerials or satellite dishes to mounts
- connecting signal outlet sockets
- checking signal strength levels
- testing equipment and fixing faults.
You would use a variety of equipment, including wiring tools, power drills and signal quality meters. On larger, more complicated installations, you may have to follow detailed engineering design plans.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You may be able to become a satellite technician through an Apprenticeship scheme with an installation company. To be eligible for an Apprenticeship, employers will expect you to have a reasonable standard of education. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You may be able to start directly with a company as a trainee if you have experience and/or qualifications in telecommunications, electronic/electrical engineering or electrical equipment servicing. You could take a college course to gain qualifications in these areas, such as:
- BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Communications Technology
- BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Electrical or Electronic Engineering
- City & Guilds (3662) Diploma in ICT Communications Systems.
The Confederation of Aerial Industries (CAI) also runs short introductory courses in satellite systems installation. These courses are open to CAI members and the general public. For more information see the CAI website.
As you will be travelling from job to job, you are likely to need a driving licence. You will also be expected to have normal colour vision.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are employed, you can work towards a range of qualifications, such as:
- NVQ Level 2 in Engineering Maintenance and Installation (has options in Communication Electronics Maintenance)
- City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Digital Television Aerial Installation
- BTEC HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering (Communication).
You could take a slightly broader course like the City & Guilds (C&G) Level 2 Diploma for Digital Home Technology Integrators (DHTI+), which shows you have the skills to deal with the growing range of household digital electronics, including home cinema, audio, computer and satellite systems. See the C&G website for details.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 020 7294 2800London
SW1E 6DR
Fulton Road
Wembley Park
Middlesex
HA9 0TF
Tel: 020 8902 8998
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- New entrants can earn from £13,000 to £16,000 a year.
- Experienced technicians can earn over £20,000.
- Technicians with planning or managerial duties may earn up to £30,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work between 40 and 45 hours a week, often including weekends and evenings. You may also have on-call duties to cover off-peak hours and emergencies.
Some of your work, such as aerial, dish or mast installation, would involve working at heights on roofs, ladders or scaffolding.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an understanding of analogue and digital technology
- practical skills
- good maths skills for technical calculations and costings
- good communication and customer care skills
- a reasonable level of fitness
- a willingness to keep track of new developments
- an understanding of safe working practices.
What opportunities are there?
The demand for satellite systems technicians is likely to increase, with the full switchover from terrestrial to digital TV in the UK, taking place between 2008 and 2012. This means that job opportunities are likely to be good.
You would normally find jobs with specialist installation firms who provide services for organisations, such as telecommunications and cable companies, mobile phone operators, broadcasters and larger electrical retailers. You may also be able to find opportunities with the armed forces and the Ministry of Defence, working on military applications of satellite and telecommunications technology.
With further training, you could progress to the planning and design of telecommunications systems, or become a self-employed installation technician.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
CAI (list of installation firms)
SCENTA
Jobcentre Plus
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