Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers
Radio, cellular, and tower equipment installers and repairers install, maintain, and repair radio transmitting and receiving equipment used in telecommunications, broadcasting, mobile broadband, and emergency services. They work on cellular towers, in service vehicles, on ships and aircraft, and at telecommunications facilities, diagnosing problems and performing repairs both in the field and in workshops.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against radio, cellular, and tower equipment installers and repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves traveling to cell tower sites, equipment rooms, or vehicle bays to inspect, install, or repair radio and cellular transmission equipment. Technicians use diagnostic tools to identify faults, replace worn components, perform routine maintenance, test systems to ensure proper function, and document work in service logs. Some days are spent indoors doing repairs and calibration; other days require climbing towers or working at remote locations.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable following technical specifications and safety protocols. You enjoy working with equipment and systems, value job security, and like knowing exactly what's expected of you each day.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $85,850 | $107,250 | $112,770 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $62,440 | $103,010 | $105,240 | 240 |
| Connecticut | $83,180 | $100,890 | $100,890 | — |
| Maryland | $79,110 | $100,800 | $117,380 | 370 |
| Arizona | $61,820 | $95,040 | $105,240 | 100 |
| New York | $58,130 | $81,070 | $114,560 | 420 |
| Nevada | $52,450 | $79,380 | $92,700 | 60 |
| Alaska | $76,440 | $79,050 | $99,830 | 50 |
| Washington | $62,070 | $79,020 | $95,640 | 240 |
| South Carolina | $66,300 | $78,250 | $78,440 | 40 |
| Texas | $48,790 | $77,910 | $95,630 | 830 |
| Minnesota | $74,240 | $76,960 | $86,470 | 80 |
All 43 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) — National Wireless Safety Alliance
- Telecommunications Tower Technician 2 (TTT-1) — National Wireless Safety Alliance
- Microwave Radio Technician (MRT) — ETA International
- GMDSS Radio Maintainer License (DM) — Federal Communications Commission
- GMDSS Radio Operator License (DO) — Federal Communications Commission
- GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License (DB) — Federal Communications Commission
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against radio, cellular, and tower equipment installers and repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-2021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.