Satellite installers spend their time completing an assortment of job duties. They must drive to installation sites and discuss operations with customers, as well as prepare, install, and test satellites. If you enjoy being on the road, working outside, and working with satellite equipment pieces, you may want to become a satellite installer. This type of career does not require you to obtain a large and extensive amount of education. In fact, most times, you will only have to complete a high school education, have a driver’s license, and receive on-the-job training to become a satellite installer.
There are certain skills that will help you to become a satellite installer. These include being good with numbers, as this helps will calculating work service amounts, having superb communication skills, and staying up-to-date on satellite technology. It also helps if you have good color vision because you will have to correctly identify a various amount of colored wires and cables. Since you will often be working above the ground and using ladders, it is essential that you competently understand safety procedures.
There are some satellite installation companies that do not require a person to have a high school education in order to become a satellite installer, but, most do. If you did not graduate from high school, obtaining a GED will be sufficient as a substitute. Since different companies have different requirements, it is important for you to identify the exact educational requirements for the company for which you would like to work.
Since you will be driving to and from installation sites, you must have a valid driver’s license. In addition to a license, most companies will prefer for you to have a clean driving record. Most employers will provide you with a company truck to use.
Most people that become a satellite installer gain their knowledge and experience through on-the-job training, often referred to as an apprenticeship. Most major satellite installation companies will require a person to become apprenticed before being hired. You should understand that, while completing your apprenticeship, you will most likely not be paid. If you live within the United Kingdom, you may find it helpful to attend courses through the Confederation of Aerial Industries, which will provide you with introductory material on satellite installation. After you gain a sufficient amount of knowledge about installing satellites, and have the hours to back it up, you should have no problem obtaining a job either with a small or large satellite installation company.
If you decide to open your own satellite installation business, you will need to obtain an extensive amount of knowledge focused on business administration. This will help you in building a large and loyal customer count, as well as to effectively marketing your business. You will also find it helpful to partner with electronic retailers in your local area, as this will help to increase your brand awareness.