Fibre Optics Technician

A fibre optics technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of fibre optic cables, which are used to carry Internet, telephone, and television connections.  Technicians install new cable lines, both underground and on telephone poles, and also perform maintenance on existing cables. They may be required to test and repair old or malfunctioning cables troubleshoot and correct any problems that may occur. They may then determine solutions for any issues preventing the service from operating normally.

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Once fibre optic cables are installed, spliced and terminated, they must be tested for continuity and polarity. The technician must be able to troubleshoot problems that occur on the job. Long cables with intermediate splices will need to be tested to verify communication between the individual splices in order to ensure that each splice has been done correctly. Fibre optics technicians may be required to work with customers in determining where cables are to be laid and connection points. They may also be responsible for promoting company services and ensuring customer satisfaction. They may be required to travel to different locations.

Tasks 

• Install, maintain and repair fibre optic cables
• Perform premises cabling
• Troubleshoot problems that occur on the job
• verify the individual splices with an OTDR test
• Create sensors and perform optical inspections.
• Measure signal strength to ensure adequate performance. 

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Personal Requirements

• Technical aptitude
• Interest in electricity and electronics
• Able to apply theoretical knowledge practically
• Able to work accurately
• Responsible and reliable
• Manual dexterity
• Good eye-hand coordination

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How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Science
Recommended subjects: Engineering and Graphic Design.

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What to Study

The entry point to studying as an optical fibre technician may be to study to become a telecommunications technician. Various colleges train telecommunications technicians in cooperation with industries such as Transport Services, the Metal Industry Training Board and Telkom.
Learners are trained according to the new competency based modular system, which enables them to progress at their own pace through the prescribed training programme and to qualify as artisans after only 2 years.

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Employment

• Such organisations as: Telkom, Transnet, Eskom, Siemens, Spoornet, Webafrica and cell phone companies
• Television organisations
• Self-employment, can start own business, for example supplying electronic equipment to the telecommunications world.

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Further Information

Potential employers can supply information regarding working conditions, salaries, study advantages, and so forth. Contact Telkom for information.
Universities of technology, universities and TVET colleges can supply information regarding course structures and subjects choices.

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Getting Started

Arrange to speak to a fibre optics technician about this type of career and ask permission to observe them at work.

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