How to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Louisiana

Cell tower technicians in Louisiana are tasked with seeing that antennas and other equipment necessary for cell technology make it safely to the top of cell towers.

The cell tower technicians install the equipment and come back on a regular basis in order to maintain it.

They are also tasked with investigating outages and fixing whatever may be wrong with the equipment that is causing the outages.

Do you think you may want to pursue this career?

Continue reading as we investigate what it takes to become a cell tower technician in Louisiana.

Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Louisiana

1. Finish High School

Getting that high school diploma or GED is essential and is your first step.

If you are sure you want to try this career, you can take advantage of clubs or even school classes that are related to telecommunications or electricity.

While still pursuing your diploma, you can also work toward getting your first aid/CPR certificate and your driver’s license.

Both will be needed as a cell tower technician in Louisiana.

2. Explore Educational Opportunities

In addition to the educational opportunity at Nunez, you have other avenues to explore.

Getting a college degree in communications or electricity will help if you plan on exploring other avenues of telecommunications along the way or are seeking to become part of management.

There may also be a chance to attend a local trade school for electricity.

Many cell companies offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships.

Reaching out to them via phone or their website will give you that information.

Volunteering with a fire company or rescue group will also give you a chance to hone valuable skills that will aid you in becoming a cell tower technician in Louisiana.

Finally, look for online training programs that you may wish to pursue.

3. Get Certifications

Getting the certifications listed below is something you need to do now.

While you may be able to get a position while working to earn them, many employers want to know that the people they hire already have the skills.

Some companies, however, will not only train you but will also cover the cost of any certifications they want employees to possess.

4. Pass Background and Drug Screening

Not all employers will require a background check or drug screening, but most will.

In Louisiana, cell companies often need to be bonded.

This means they want to make sure none of their employees have records that might hinder their bonding applications.

As for drug screenings, drug use is dangerous in many instances, but for a job like a cell tower technician, when you must climb to great heights, the use of drugs puts both you and your coworkers in mortal danger.

5. Find a Position

There are several avenues you can follow that will increase your chances of gaining a cherished position as a cell tower technician in Louisiana.

Many companies list openings on job boards.

Make sure you check those boards daily. Also, upload a resume to places that allow you to do so.

Employers do check these boards.

Joining a group, such as a forum, of like-minded individuals will give you a chance to network.

You may also get advanced notice of positions that may be opening up.

Finally, make a list of cell companies you would like to work for and give them a call.

Ask what they are looking for in an employee, if they have any openings, and if it is okay to send them a copy of your resume.

6. Continue Learning

Anyone who wants to pursue a career as a cell tower technician in Louisiana understands that the industry is constantly changing.

It is essential to make sure your skills stay up-to-date to make sure you can still continue giving the job your best.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Louisiana

Louisiana doesn’t require specific licenses for cell tower technicians.

The federal government does have regulations, however, and any cell employer must ensure that all technicians meet these standards.

The companies themselves may also require additional things.

At the very least, companies will be looking for the following, or some combination of the following.

• 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 Louisiana

Nunez Community College

Nunez Community College offers a Certified Fiber Optic Technician class.

There are three different courses offered, and they are all 15 percent theory and 85 percent hands-on.

While the site itself doesn’t have much information listed as to length and cost, there are several places where you can apply for more information.

In addition to the above course, there are online courses you can take to help with certifications and skill learning.

Many cell companies themselves also offer training.

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

On average, a cell tower technician in Louisiana can expect to earn a yearly salary of $42,037.

This breaks down to $20.21 an hour.

Depending upon the number of hours worked, which can often reach sixty hours a week during busy periods, the amount to be made is often higher.

Supervisors also make more than the average listed here.

Cell Tower Technician by State