Is Tower Technician a Good Job? Pros and Cons (2024)
Tower technicians play a crucial role in the telecommunications industry. They are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of cell towers, ensuring that communication networks are functioning properly. If you're considering a career as a tower technician, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. In this blog post, we'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a career as a tower technician, as well as the essential skills and qualifications needed for this profession. We'll also discuss the career outlook for tower technicians and factors to consider before deciding on this career path.
Key Points
- Tower technician or similar courses can cost $1,000 and above, depending on the inclusions of your tuition.
- Certificate courses for tower technicians can last from 3 to 5 weeks. Some courses can be longer and last 10 to 20 weeks.
- Being a tower technician requires you to be at least 18 years old, have a least a high school diploma or GED, able to carry a body harness with a specific weight, valid driver's license, and other specified requirements as needed.
What is the highest-paid tower technician?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paid tower technicians are those who work in the Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution industries. As of May 2023, they earn an average of $98,920 per year, which breaks down to an hourly wage of $47.56. This makes them the top earners among all Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers.
How high do tower technicians climb?
People who climb cell towers or tower technicians often need to go up about 500 feet high. These towers, regardless of their size or purpose, need regular fixing and checks.
What is the difference between a tower climber and a tower technician?
Tower Climbers are responsible for building towers. They set up the base and added pieces to create the structure. They also carry out regular upkeep tasks. On the other hand, Tower Technicians handle more specialized equipment at the top of the towers. This role might need extra knowledge and training.
How much do tower technicians make in the US?
In the US, the top 10% of tower technicians earn up to $95,680 annually, which is about $46 per hour. The average salary is $61,310 per year or $29.48 per hour. The lowest 10% earn around $38,880 a year, or $18.69 per hour. This is based on the BLS May 2023 data.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a tower technician can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, have technical skills, and are comfortable working at heights. This profession offers job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career growth. However, it also comes with physical demands, safety risks, and irregular work schedules. Before pursuing a career as a tower technician, it's important to carefully consider the pros and cons, as well as your personal preferences and long-term goals.
If you're interested in becoming a tower technician, consider exploring vocational training programs in this field. Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find vocational training programs, such as allied health or industrial trades, can help you find the perfect class. Dreambound's mission is to provide all the information students need to make informed decisions about their education and career paths. Visit Dreambound today to find the right training program for you.
Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help with the different parts of the certification process across the country:
- How to Become a Tower Technician in Connecticut
- How to Become a Tower Technician in Kentucky
- How to Become a Tower Technician in New Hampshire
- How to Become a Tower Technician in Oklahoma
- How to Become a Tower Technician in South Dakota
Contemplating a transition in your career or exploring various professional paths? Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:
Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.