AT&T is a company that provides subscription television, local and long distance voice services and broadband Internet. Cable splicers, also referred to as cable splicing technicians or line installers or repairers, construct and maintain AT&T's vast networks of wires and cables. These wires and cables transmit the electric power needed to provide services to residential and commercial customers.

Description

The main job description of an AT&T cable splicer is to install, maintain and repair services for AT&T customers. After telephone line installers place optical cable lines in position, cable splicers complete the connections by connecting individual wires or fibers within the cable. Splicers also rearrange wires when optical cable lines are changed. Splicing specifications are determined through service orders and circuit diagrams and are made by joining wires and cables using different kinds of equipment. Splicers work on utility poles, platforms and aerial ladders, which can be extended to reach high places, and in manholes or in basements of buildings.

Responsibilities

Cable splicers review and analyze complex schematic drawings and uses electrical test instruments to determine defective wire or fiber. Responsibilities include identifying problems and repairing and maintaining outdoor cable facilities in all types of weather -- even during severe weather -- when a problem is reported. Cable splicers are also responsible for being on the job at short notice to repair damaged cables until service is restored.

Qualifications

Minimum job qualifications of a cable splicer include the ability to lift and move up to 100 pounds. You must be able to work while kneeling and stooping or crouching in confined spaces; be able to climb ladders and utility poles; and operate bucket trucks with hydraulic aerial lifts. A cable splicer has to be able to tell the differences in cable and wire colors and pass employment tests. Cable splicer's cannot weight over 325 pounds in working clothes and safety gear. You must have a valid state driver's license to be able to drive utility vehicles.

Earnings

As of June 2011, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for a cable splicer is $24.08 and the mean annual salary is $50,080. This is considered to be higher than other occupations that don't require postsecondary education. Some cable splicers belong to unions, which are responsible for setting wage rates and wage increases, such as the Communications Workers of America, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the Utility Workers Union of America.