Fiber Optic Technician - Pay by Experience Level

How to Become a Fiber Optic Technician

The future of the internet is optical fiber. The demand for bandwidth and Internet access in remote areas continues to increase, therefore, the need for qualified technicians to install this cable. However, you may be confused about how many technical and certification skills are needed to gain a foothold in this growing sector of the telecommunications industry. While the background to coaxial cabling can be a good start in this field, in many cases it is like starting over with equipment that requires a higher level of maintenance and completely different installation standards.

What do fiber optic technicians do?

These professionals are responsible for installing and repairing fiber optic cables, creating and maintaining high-speed communications. Job tasks include installing cable lines, testing connections, and troubleshooting damaged equipment. The challenges of this profession can include working with electronics and construction equipment in bad weather, as well as working at heights or in confined spaces. This is not an entry level position and requires technical knowledge and a high understanding of communication and signal flow.

Pay by Experience Level for Fiber Optic Technician

Certified Fiber Optic Technician Salary - An entry-level with less than 1 year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $16.64 based on 47 salaries. An early career Fiber Optic Technician with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $18.84 based on 349 salaries. A mid-career Fiber Optic Technician with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $21.77 based on 228 salaries. An experienced Fiber Optic Technician with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $25.30 based on 168 salaries. In their late career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of $27.

Pay Difference by Location

Employees with Fiber Optic Technician in their job title in New York, New York earn an average of 42.1% more than the national average. These job titles also find higher than average salaries in Seattle, Washington (23.7% more) and Houston, Texas (17.6% more). The lowest salaries can be found in Charlotte, North Carolina (15.2% less), Phoenix, Arizona (3.5% less) and Austin, Texas (2.8% less).