A tech’s guide to finding low-voltage cabling work

What is a low-voltage cabling technician?

A low-voltage cabling technician, often simply referred to as a cabling technician, is a highly skilled professional that designs, installs, and maintains low-voltage cabling systems. The role involves intricate work, such as cable testing, pulling cable, and configuring demarcation extensions to ensure seamless connectivity and data transmission.

What projects can low-voltage cabling technicians find on Field Nation?

The Field Nation marketplace connects experienced techs to a variety of low-voltage cabling projects, including site surveys, cabling infrastructure or end-device installations, including:

Equipment installations: Setting up and connecting various types of equipment.
Network equipment: Installing cables to establish network connectivity.
Wireless access points (WAPs): Ensuring wireless network coverage through cabling.
Fire alarms: Establishing connections for fire alarm systems.
A/V systems: Wiring for audio and video systems.
Cameras, IP devices, and signage: installing cables for surveillance and connectivity.
New site openings: Cabling services for newly established sites.

Which low-voltage cabling skills are in demand?

Field Nation data highlights the strong demand for cabling skills. Companies often seek proficiency in:

Pulling/installing: Expertise in physically installing cables, ensuring they are properly routed and secured.
Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving issues in cabling systems to deliver uninterrupted connectivity.
Termination: Correctly terminating cables, such as connectors and sockets, for optimal performance.
Testing: Proficiency in cable testing to validate proper functionality and signal integrity.
Certifying: Assuring compliance with industry standards.
Long runs (IDF to AP): Experience in handling and optimizing long cable runs, especially between intermediate distribution frames (IDF) and access points (AP).
Demarc extensions: Knowledge of extending demarcation points is crucial for seamless connectivity and data transmission.

What certifications are required for low-voltage cabling technicians?

Companies value certifications to verify the expertise of low-voltage technicians. Popular certifications and licensing requirements include:

BICSI technician: Specializes in structured cabling and low-voltage systems, important for wireless infrastructure.
CompTIA Network+: Covers essential networking concepts and technologies.
Low-voltage licenses are required in certain states.

What does the future look like for low-voltage cabling?

Low-voltage cabling is vital for nearly all field service projects, from point-of-sale systems to networking and audio-visual setups. According to industry estimates, the global structured cable market will reach $15 billion by 2027.

Remote and hybrid work, accelerated by the pandemic, made high-quality video calls the new norm. Businesses are upgrading infrastructure to meet ongoing video conferencing needs, driving continued demand for low-voltage cabling.

What is the average pay rate for low-voltage cabling technicians on the Field Nation marketplace?

Technicians using the Field Nation marketplace have the freedom to bid on projects that align with their expertise.

On average, qualified techs using Field Nation get access to more than 100,000 work orders per year for low-voltage projects. Though pay rates may vary based on the scope and location of work, the national average for low-voltage cabling technicians using Field Nation is $65.11 per hour. The Field Nation marketplace offers transparency and control by making payment terms visible within a work order for technicians to review before deciding to request or accept work.

Why do low-voltage cabling technicians prefer contract work?

Across many industries, including field service, workers are opting for independent contractor roles to have more control over their work and their time. Contract work offers low-voltage cabling technicians a host of benefits that align with their skills and preferences:

Control and autonomy: Technicians can choose projects that fit their schedules and expertise.
Variety: Working on diverse projects hones skills and keeps work interesting.
Professional growth: Exposure to various projects contributes to continuous learning and growth.

Read the full research to learn more.

Why Field Nation?

Accelerate your career with Field Nation, the #1 labor marketplace for IT field service technicians. Experience the freedom to choose work that aligns with your skills and schedule, giving you the control you’ve always wanted. Whether you are seeking to elevate your career or explore new opportunities, Field Nation empowers you to take charge of your professional journey.

Gain insights into the technician experience on Field Nation and unlock its benefits. Start your journey today by signing up for your free account.