How do I Become a Satellite Technician?

In the United States, a variety of different requirements must be met in order for a person to become a satellite technician. Most of these jobs do not require applicants to have any type of college degree. It is usually sufficient to have a high school diploma or GED. The majority of positions will require candidates to have a valid driver's license, as these jobs generally require you to travel between customers' locations by truck or van.

To be a good candidate for these types of jobs, you will need to be in relatively good shape. Many job descriptions for people who want to become a satellite technician specifically require applicants to be able to lift at least 50 lbs (22.67 kg). If you are interested in this career field, you will also need to be comfortable with heights. Most of the time, you will have to climb ladders to get to the roofs of buildings or houses, so that you can install a satellite. If you are not at ease climbing ladders to considerable heights, you might want to consider another type of job.

If you want to become a satellite technician, you will need to have excellent customer service skills. You should be an effective, personable communicator so that you can talk with clients. Keep in mind that you will more than likely be dealing with dozens of different people every day. If you are not a 'people person,' this particular career may not be for you.

Many employers look for candidates who have at least one or two years of relevant work experience, though this is not always the case. Plenty of opportunities generally exist for people who are looking to get into this field, and many companies offer fully paid training for new recruits. If you have prior customer service experience in any capacity, it will likely be to your advantage. It tends to be very important in satellite technician positions for candidates to have the ability to get along well with other people.

You should expect to successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening in order to become a satellite technician. In addition, many employers test their workers throughout the year on a regular, unannounced basis in order to ensure compliance with a drug-free work environment. Other employers have regularly scheduled drug tests that employees have to comply with a few times a year.