by 
The need for cell tower technicians is growing, and it doesn’t look like the need will end any time soon.
We are making advances in communication techniques every day.
It takes a special type of person to work as a cell tower technician.
You have to regularly climb to heights as high as 400 feet.
This is a job that requires great physical fitness, a steady hand, technical knowledge, and a sense of adventure.
If you have a penchant for travel, don’t mind great heights, and want a career that is likely to last, read on to find out what it takes to become a cell tower technician in Alaska.
Article Table of Contents
- 1 Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Alaska
- 2 Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Alaska
- 3 Cell Tower Technician Programs in Alaska
- 4 How Much Does a Cell Tower Technician Make in Alaska?
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 5.1 How long does it take to become a cell tower technician in Alaska?
- 5.2 What are some of the personal traits a cell tower technician in Alaska must have to be successful?
- 5.3 What does a cell tower technician in Alaska do?
- 5.4 Is there a need for cell tower technicians in Alaska?
- 5.5 How does a cell tower technician pay in Alaska compare to other state salaries?
Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Alaska
1. Get a high school diploma
The first thing you need to do is complete high school or get a GED.
If you have a chance to pursue extracurricular activities in communication or electronics, doing so will give you an advantage over other candidates in the future.
2. Look for Educational Opportunities
There are no specific cell tower technician programs in Alaska, but you can get electronics or communication skills that will aid you eventually.
There are online opportunities you can look into.
You may also want to contact cell companies and ask if they offer apprenticeship programs.
3. Obtain any Relevant Certifications
Getting as many safety certifications as possible, along with first aid certification, will help make your employment application stand out.
This will show employers that you are serious and take safety seriously.
4. Seek Open Positions
Job boards and sites like Indeed will help you pinpoint any open positions.
Cold calling companies may also get you an interview, but this is something you can’t solely rely on.
You may also want to upload your resume to job websites.
Make sure you update this regularly.
5. Continue Education
Cell technology is constantly changing, and employers are going to seek out candidates who show they are up-to-date on both knowledge and skills.
Watch for any opportunities that can help you increase your knowledge.
Keep your certifications current and update your resume regularly to reflect any new information.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Alaska
There are no specific licensing requirements for cell tower technicians in Alaska.
Individual employers may require employees to take certain certification courses when hired.
In addition to basic CPR and first aid, you may be required to get a Competent Climber and Rescue certificate, OSHA 1 or OSHA 30 certification, or NWSA TTT-1 or TTT-2 certification.
The Competent Climber and Rescue is offered by NATE.
This is a two-day course that includes eight hours of book instruction and eight hours of practice.
The certification lasts for two years.
OSHA offers a ten-hour safety course and a thirty-hour one.
These are very often a must-have for anyone working on a dangerous job, such as cell tower technicians do.
This will help employers know you understand what is needed to maintain safety in all situations.
The National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) has TTT-1 and TTT-2 certifications that are preferred by many employers.
The first is an entry-level certificate, and the second is for those wishing to teach or supervise.
Each one costs $274.
Cell Tower Technician Programs in Alaska
While there are no programs specifically for cell tower technicians in Alaska, there are a few companies that provide on-the-job training.
There are also online programs that may help.
Your best bet is to look for positions in this field, then speak with the company hiring and ask what they may be able and willing to provide in the way of an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
How Much Does a Cell Tower Technician Make in Alaska?
Cell tower technicians in Alaska are currently at the top of the pay scale for this position.
Hourly rates run from $12.43 to $38.06 per hour.
The average is $27 per hour.
This translates into a yearly salary of between $25,847 and $79,155.
On average, Alaska cell tower technicians make $56,385 annually.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Anchorage | $87,519 |
| Fairbanks | $59,502 |
| Juneau | $61,088 |
| Knik-Fairview | $74,522 |
| Badger | $79,998 |
| College | $58,533 |
| Wasilla | $56,331 |
| Meadow Lakes | $54,779 |
| Tanaina | $73,552 |
| Sitka | $62,734 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a cell tower technician in Alaska?
The amount of time it takes to become a cell tower technician in Alaska varies, depending on how much previous experience you have, what certifications you possess, and where you will be working.
On average, you are looking at anywhere from three months to two years of on-the-job and safety training.
What are some of the personal traits a cell tower technician in Alaska must have to be successful?
The first thing you need to be able to do as a cell tower technician is to be able to withstand extreme heights without a bit of panic.
You will need to work in all weather conditions, understand how to problem-solve, and be able to adhere to safety protocol.
A knowledge of electronics and telecommunication is necessary.
The ideal candidate will be willing to travel extensively throughout the state and be willing to work long 10-12-hour days.
What does a cell tower technician in Alaska do?
A cell tower technician in Alaska inspects, installs, and repairs equipment related to cell phone towers.
They install antennas and transmission lines and do testing and troubleshooting on equipment to find any problems that need resolving.
They are also responsible for regular maintenance tasks.
Is there a need for cell tower technicians in Alaska?
While the need for cell tower technicians is growing steadily throughout the country, Alaska remains at the top of this growth because of the need for greater communication between this state and the lower 48.
The number of positions is expected to continue growing as advances are being made in cell phone technology.
How does a cell tower technician pay in Alaska compare to other state salaries?
Cell tower technician salaries in Alaska are at the top of the field standards in Alaska.
This is often the case in many industries.
The average salary for this position runs from between $25,847 and $79,155.
On average, Alaska cell tower technicians make $56,385 annually.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Cell Tower Technician
Cell Tower Technician by State