by 
Have you ever thought about entering a necessary career, slated to last for a long time, and full of adventure?
If so, read on to see what it takes to be a cell tower technician.
These individuals regularly climb to heights of 200 to 400 feet to install, maintain, and fix cell lines to make sure everyone has open communication lines.
The field of communication is expanding daily, and it is predicted that the need for a greater number of cell tower technicians will grow accordingly. Let’s explore this career option.
Article Table of Contents
- 1 Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Wyoming
- 2 Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Wyoming
- 3 Cell Tower Technician Programs in Wyoming
- 4 How Much Does a Cell Tower Technician Make in Wyoming?
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 5.1 Why are there so few educational programs for cell tower technicians in Wyoming?
- 5.2 If there is no need for a state license for cell tower technicians in Wyoming, why should I get licensed?
- 5.3 Why do I need a driver's license to be a cell tower technician in Wyoming?
- 5.4 What are some pros and cons of being a cell tower technician in Wyoming?
- 5.5 How much money does a cell tower technician in Wyoming make?
Steps to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Wyoming
1. Graduate from High School
Your first step is to obtain your high school diploma or a GED.
If possible, try doing extracurricular activities involving electronics or telecommunications.
This will give you some basic knowledge that others may not have.
2. Check State Regulations
Every state has a different set of qualifications regarding what is required to get a job as a cell tower technician.
Check the regulations in Wyoming to make sure you know the current standards.
3. Get Training if Possible
Look for a specific training program for cell tower technicians.
If none are available in your area, check out online opportunities and speak with companies that hire technicians and see if they have apprenticeships or on-the-job training opportunities.
4. Get Experience
This is where apprenticeships and other on-the-job training opportunities come in.
Some licenses require so much time spent on the actual task.
Many telecommunication companies offer some type of training.
5. Get any Necessary Licenses
Try to obtain as many licenses as you can, not just the necessary ones.
The more skills you can show you have, the greater your chances are of obtaining higher-paying positions and standing out from other candidates.
6. Find Openings and Apply
Do job searches in your area.
Place your resume on places like Indeed, and do as much networking as possible.
Be ready to jump on any openings that appear as soon as you can.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Cell Tower Technician in Wyoming
Wyoming itself does not have specific licensing requirements for cell tower technicians.
However, employers will require you to meet certain federal guidelines and may even have their own requirements.
There are some licenses you will almost certainly need that show your skill in climbing and safety.
- NATE (National Association of Power Erectors)authorized climber/rescuer certificate.
- OSHA safety standards required for climbing. This will be either a 10-hour or 30-hour course, depending on what level of position you are seeking, entry or supervisory.
- FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license.
- Basic first aid and CPR
- Passed background and drug screening
- A valid driver’s license
- Possible RF Awareness course. This shows you are aware of the health effects of Radiofrequency (RF) and you know how to minimize these effects.
Cell Tower Technician Programs in Wyoming
There are no schools in Wyoming that specifically offer cell tower technician programs.
For those who are seeking training, there are several online programs that will teach various skills you need.
The licensing agencies also offer a learning opportunity as you work toward a license.
Another option is to reach out to various companies that hire tower technicians.
Most have their own requirements, so they are often willing to give hands-on training to applicants who show a promise of keeping with the program.
How Much Does a Cell Tower Technician Make in Wyoming?
Cell tower technicians in Oklahoma make, on average $52,360 annually.
The highest paid ten percent, however, can realize as much as $100,090 a year.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Cheyenne | $56,173 |
| Casper | $52,973 |
| Gillette | $58,362 |
| Laramie | $54,362 |
| Rock Springs | $55,535 |
| Sheridan | $55,190 |
| Evanston | $55,651 |
| Green River, | $60,514 |
| Riverton | $55,480 |
| Jackson | $61,945 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so few educational programs for cell tower technicians in Wyoming?
Cell tower technician programs are scarce throughout the country.
This is because every state has its own requirements.
Online classes are available.
The companies themselves often have their own set of skills and prefer training workers themselves to make sure everyone follows the same rules.
This is a skill that is better learned hands-on than by reading.
If there is no need for a state license for cell tower technicians in Wyoming, why should I get licensed?
Federal regulations always need to be followed, and there are several in place for cell tower technicians.
Employers want to make sure they meet federal standards.
They also want to be sure employees understand safety protocol and can follow orders, as this is a dangerous position, and employers don’t want injured employees.
Likely, you won’t be hired for a position in Oklahoma without a license.
Why do I need a driver's license to be a cell tower technician in Wyoming?
Working on cell towers requires moving from one tower to another.
These towers can be widely spaced.
Having a driver’s license is necessary in Wyoming in order to be able to drive a truck or other equipment necessary to get from one site to another.
Even if two people are working together on a crew, one isn’t going to want to do all the driving.
Also, the long hours make this unsafe.
What are some pros and cons of being a cell tower technician in Wyoming?
Some pros of being a cell tower technician in Wyoming are that the pay is good, and you get to work very much on your own most of the time.
This is great for those who don’t like crowds or being micromanaged.
Some cons are that you need to work in all types of weather and that the hours are long, sometimes 10-12-hour days.
There is also a lot of traveling involved, so it can be difficult for family interaction.
How much money does a cell tower technician in Wyoming make?
Cell tower technicians in Oklahoma make, on average $52,360 annually.
The highest paid ten percent, however, can realize as much as $100,090 a year.
This is a good amount and can make paying bills easier.
For a job of this type, proper compensation is definitely necessary.
Cell Tower Technician by State