Zippia recently compiled a list of the most important skills for a structured cabling technician based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. Here are the top 10.
1. Fiber Optics
Optical fiber is used by many telecommunications companies to transmit telephone signals, Internet communication and cable television signals. The variety of uses for fiber optics, including in the medical, government and data storage industries, make it a highly desirable skill.
2. Patch Panels
Patch panels serve as a sort of static switchboard, using cables to connect network computers to each other and to outside lines.
3 and 4. Cat6 and Cat5 Cabling
Category 6 and Category 5 cables are specific types of “twisted pair” cables, in which two conductors of a single circuit are twisted together to improve electromagnetic compatibility. Cat6 cables are newer than Cat5 and can handle more bandwidth. That said, experience with both is desirable.
5. Security Cameras
Employers often employ structured cabling technicians to installed security cameras, low voltage systems and access badges.
6. Access Points
Structured cabling technicians are often called upon to install wi-fi access points and switches, key to a business’s telecommunications infrastructure.
7. Fluke
If Microsoft is the gold standard for office technology, Fluke fills the same role for electricians. Having a background in Fluke’s electrical metering equipment will make you a more employable technician.
8 and 9. MDFs and IDFs
Distribution frames are cable racks that interconnect telecommunications wiring in a building. The main distribution frame (MDF) connects private or public lines coming into a building with the internal network. The MDF then connects with a number of intermediate distribution frames (IDFs) throughout the building.
10. Cat 5E
A specific type of Cat5 cabling, Cat 5E improves on the standard Cat5 by introducing specifications to reduce the amount of “crosstalk”: unwanted communication between circuits.
Looking for a Structured Cabling Technician Position?
TradeSTAR works with top employers with several offices across Texas for your convenience. If you’re on the hunt for a technician opportunity, contact our team today or browse our online job search portal.
