IOT, Data And Networking Technician

Low Voltage Technician jobs are in demand and a great long-term career choice. If you are not already licensed, apprentice positions are available for this license. You can have a thriving career working for some of the premier companies thanks to the explosion of smart IoT (Internet of Things) of all things low voltage.

What Does a Low Voltage Technician Do?

The majority of the work performed by Technicians includes installation and maintenance of any Low Voltage Cabling for systems that support commercial buildings in the United States. Essentially, Low Voltage Technicians execute structured cabling work to install, service and maintain, repair and modify the low voltage category cabling, Security, Fire, Access Control, Surveillance Video, communications cabling, fiber optic cabling, Networking and Network management, Automation, Audio-Video Systems, Lighting and many other low voltage cabling and technology systems.

Employers and clients benefit greatly by having qualified and capable technicians.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Low Voltage Technician?

We complete a wide range of specific tasks to ensure that all aspects of the client’s systems are in good health. Often working alone in tight spaces, we utilize trained strategies while also completing the physical work. These tasks include:

Pulling, labeling, dressing and termination of horizontal cable, including cat5, cat6, fiber, coax, AV wire, Fire Alarm and security & access control.
Configure, maintain, and fix issues of the data network, telephony systems, security, fire, access control, CCTV and other associated technologies in conformity with the conventional processes and standards.
Provide System Testing and documentation.

Our job may also involve using High level testers, installing telecommunications equipment, switches, routers, building support structure such as ladder racks and cable tray while always following industry standards, reading blueprints and coordinating with other trade contractors in an efficient manner.

Are there Education Requirements for Low Voltage Technician Jobs?

If you have work for a public utility company (PUC) you are ready to apply. If you are already IT savvy, there are opportunities in this category. Successful canidates in this category are offered advancement into LEB and LEA career paths.

You must at least a GED or a high school diploma to be considered. You must have a valid drivers license. In addition, you should to have a fundamental knowledge of EIA, TIA and ANSI Standards (Electrical Industry Association; Telecommunications Industry Association and American National Standards Institute).

If you want to stand out and accelerate your advancement in this field, additional certifications can help to land the most valuable clients. Additional qualifications include:

What Skills Do I Need?

You should have a foundational knowledge of the EIA / TIA standards, should have a basic understanding of Blue Print Reading and interpretation. And love technology!

On top of those skills, it is necessary to be aware of OSHA safety standards. You need to have planning and organization skills to meet daily work requirements. Many projects require traveling to job sites that may be remote. This means you should have a vehicle and a valid driver’s license.

You also need to have strong written and verbal communication skills, as you will need to interact with team members, clients, and management. As you progress, it is vital to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

What Salary Can I Expect?

The average annual compensation in Oregon and SW Washington is $45,400.

Working for a company in Oregon who has project-ready clients will be able to earn you $22 to $30 per hour, depending on experience and certifications held.

The value of experience cannot be emphasized enough, which is working for a OBFAA member company like this can get you in the door and on projects much quicker to gain that experience. As you gain experience and develop leadership skills, anyone starting out as a Low Voltage Technicians can progress to senior roles like Foreman, Project Manager, or even Operations Manager.

By working as a Low Voltage Technician for an OBFAA member company you will be continuously introduced to new technologies and improving your opportunities in the field.