Learn more about starting a career in high-speed internet

1. Network Technician: designs, implements and maintains high-speed broadband networks, ensuring optimal performance and reliability to support internet connectivity for homes, businesses and communities. They configure network hardware, troubleshoot issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver and enhance broadband services.
2. Telecommunications Technician: responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing telecommunications equipment and systems. This may range across a number of fields including fiber optics and wireless broadband methods like cell towers.
3. Equipment Operator: operates heavy machinery and equipment to install, maintain and repair broadband infrastructure. Beyond equipment operation, the role requires being a good and open communicator with construction teams for ensuring safety standard compliance and project efficiency.
4. Trenching Operator or “Trencher”: operates trenching equipment to excavate trenches for burying cables and conduits. These professionals are typically part of construction crews responsible for installing underground infrastructure, such as fiber optic cables, coaxial cables and ductwork to support broadband networks.
5. Broadband Support (customer service representative): assists customers with technical issues related to broadband services (such as fiber to the home), troubleshoots connectivity problems and provides guidance on solution possibilities. They may also help dispatch technicians to report to that location should the network issue persist.
6. Network Architect and Coordinator: designs and plans the architecture of computer networks. The role is crucial in ensuring that network infrastructures meet the requirements of organizations in terms of performance, scalability, reliability and security.
7. Structural Engineer: designs and assesses the infrastructure needed for supporting broadband networks. Structural engineers may not directly work on the technical aspects of broadband networks, but they are involved in designing the physical structures that support the infrastructure.
8. Broadband Surveyor: conducts site surveys, collects data and creates maps to assess terrain and plan optimal routes for broadband network deployment. Using software, they create detailed technical drawings and schematics based on survey data to supporting the design, documentation and planning of projects.
9. Radio Frequency (RF) and Field Engineer: works on designing, optimizing and maintaining radio frequency systems and equipment used in wireless communication networks.
10. Master Electrician: installs, maintains and troubleshoots electrical systems supporting broadband network equipment, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.

• According to Glassdoor, in 2024, the average salary for a fiber technician is $55,428 per year as well as an estimated $2,599 in additional pay.
• More advanced roles like Telecom Technician III and Lead Telecom Technicians are reported to make up to $70,000 per year.
• Fiber Optic Technicians can make up to $85,000 per year.

States across the heartland need thousands of jobs to bring high-speed internet. For example, Arkansas needs to fill 8,000 jobs in high-speed internet and Louisiana needs to fill 5,000 jobs in high-speed internet.

• Technician Trainee: receive on-the-job training and mentorship on the fundamentals of fiber optic technology and telecommunications.
• Internships at telecommunication companies: Companies may offer Internship programs to provide hands-on experience in various aspects of fiber optics, similar to these other entry-level roles.
• Apprenticeships: may include a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training, often involving fiber optic installations and maintenance.
• Fiber Optic Technician Assistant: aid technicians on their essential tasks like cable installations, system diagnostics, troubleshooting and terminations.
• Junior Fiber Optic Technician: take on basic responsibilities under supervision like testing, splicing and connectorization (attaching connectors to the ends of optical fibers to facilitate reliable connection to network equipment, devices or other cables).

A registered apprenticeship is a formal training program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Most apprenticeships require a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license and the ability to pass a drug test. Some may also require passing a basic math or aptitude test. There are optional pre-apprenticeship programs training up individuals with the basic skills to apply for an apprenticeship.

The process is slightly different depending on what union you are applying to. Generally, when the application window opens, applicants must fill out an online application, take any required assessments, complete an interview, perform a physical assessment and if selected, begin training while working and earning wages as an apprentice for 3.5 to 4 years.

It varies by program, but many accept new apprentices on a set schedule—such as quarterly, twice a year or when there’s demand. Check with the specific program for exact timing.