How to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Kansas

Cell towers are everywhere in Kansas and every other state.

Cell tower technicians are responsible for making sure the equipment on the cell tower is installed correctly.

The technician is also responsible for doing regular maintenance and repairing any equipment that is not working properly.

As technology changes, the cell tower technician in Kansas must also upgrade any equipment.

It is safe to say that the position of cell tower technician is one that is here to stay for many years into the future.

Read on to learn what it takes to become a cell tower technician in Kansas.

Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Kansas

1. Finish High School

As with any job in today’s society, you must first complete your high school education.

You can get either a diploma or a GED, but you need one.

During that time, it helps if you pursue activities that can help hone your skills in the field of telecommunications.

Join clubs, take night classes if you feel comfortable, and take advantage of any chance to network with those in the field.

2. Explore Educational Opportunities

While there is no school offering cell tower technician programs in Kansas, there are many online programs that can help you with learning the skills you need.

You might also consider a college or trade school program in either electricity or telecommunications.

It isn’t a waste of time to take a day or two to call the cell companies in any area you wish to work.

They may offer apprenticeships or other types of hands-on training.

Volunteering with a volunteer fire company or rescue group can also help you hone your skills.

3. Get Certifications

There are several certifications that you can find online that are required for work as a cell tower technician.

Work toward getting as many as you can.

You will also need to get certified in First Aid and CPR.

A local Red Cross or many hospitals offer this class.

You will also need to get your driver’s license if you don’t already have it.

4. Pass Background and Drug Screening

With a job as dangerous as a cell tower technician, a person must be able to pass a drug screening.

Using substances that could make you less than your top form would likely put both you and your coworkers in danger.

Companies that install cell towers very often need to be bonded.

While individual technicians don’t need to be, the company wants to make sure, as much as possible, that they are hiring an honest, dependable individual.

5. Find a Position

There are many openings for cell tower technicians in Kansas, but finding them will take effort on your part.

The first step is to get an updated resume and get it into the hands of as many hiring people as possible.

This includes posting it on resume sites online, mailing it to individual HR departments of the cell companies, and registering with placement agencies.

Lastly, make sure you check job boards on a regular basis.

6. Continue Learning

Cell technology is constantly growing and changing, and you do not want to be left behind.

Take every opportunity possible to hone the skills you have and learn any new ones that arise.

Try to obtain knowledge of all aspects of cell technology, not just the installation and repair of equipment.

The more you know, the greater your chances of earning more money and rising in your position.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Kansas

Kansas does not have any specific licensing requirements for cell tower technicians, but it does require technicians to meet all the safety standards set forth by the FCC.

Each company may also require additional requirements, so you will want to investigate that in advance.

It is a safe assumption that you will need to have all or some combination of the following to work at most cell organizations in Kansas.

OSHA 10 or 30  safety certification.

The ten-hour course is for entry-level positions, and the thirty-hour one is for those who wish to rise in the ranks and become supervisors or instructors.

National Wireless Safety Alliance (NATE) certificates.

These are TTT1 and TTT2 certifications, depending on the job level.

They also offer safe climbing courses and rescue certification.

Competent Climber and Rescuer Certification

Radio frequency (RF) safety certification.

This lets employers know you understand the dangers of radiofrequency and how to work safely with it.

CPR and First Aid training.

A valid driver’s license.

Cell Tower Technician Programs in Kansas

While there is no school offering cell tower technician programs in Kansas, there are many online programs that can help you with learning the skills you need.

You might also consider a college or trade school program in either electricity or telecommunications.

It isn’t a waste of time to take a day or two to call the cell companies in any area you wish to work.

They may offer apprenticeships or other types of hands-on training.

Volunteering with a volunteer fire company or rescue group can also help you hone your skills.

How Much Does a Cell Tower Technician in Kansas Get Paid?

Kansas cell tower technicians make an average of $21.08 per hour, plus benefits and overtime pay.

Yearly, this ends up being $43,843.

Entry-level positions may start at less, and for those in supervisory positions, the pay is greater.

Cell Tower Technician by State