Line Installers and Cable Splicers

Employers

There are approximately 225,600 line installers and cable splicers working in the United States. Among electrical power-line installers and repairers, 80 percent are employed by utilities or utilities system construction. Additionally, 62 percent of telecommunications line installers and repairers work for the telecommunications industry. Some installers work for the freelance construction companies that contract with telecommunications and electric companies.

Starting Out

Those who meet the basic requirements and are interested in becoming either a line installer or a cable splicer may inquire about job openings by directly contacting the personnel offices of local telecommunications and utility companies.

Those enrolled in a trade school or technical institute may be able to learn about job openings through their schools' career services office. Occasionally, employers will contact teachers and program administrators, so it is helpful to check with them also. Some positions are advertised through classified advertisements in the newspaper or at the Web sites of professional associations. Because many line installers are members of unions such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Communications Workers of America, job seekers can contact their local offices for job leads and assistance or visit these unions' Web sites.