How to Become A Fibre Optic Installer In South Africa

A Fiber Optics Installer is responsible for installing, preparing, and troubleshooting fiber optic cables and systems. The professional designs optical paths and passive optical networks.

What does a fiber optic cable installer do?

A cable/fiber optics technician — also called a cable installer — designs, installs, operates, maintains and repairs telecommunication networks for internet, television and telephone services. This involves different types of cables — primarily fiber optic cables but also copper cables — used to transfer data.

What does a fibre technician do?

What Do Fiber Optic Technicians Do? Install, troubleshoot, and maintain fiber optic systems. Run fiber optic cables underground or underwater, and perform premises cabling. Conduct regular inspections of fiber optic systems, and locate and repair defects.

What does a fiber optic splicing technician?

A fiber splicing technician, or fiber lineman, is a lineman who specializes in installing and repairing fiber optic lines. In this career, you will be responsible for splicing new lines into the network grid, installing them above ground on poles or underground, and repairing existing lines.

Educational Requirements

An installer must have a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, electrical, information technology, or any related field. Organizations need candidates with relevant work experience. Some employers want to hire candidates with a master’s degree or other work specialization.

Useful Certifications Programs

Fiber Optics Installer Certification

The Fiber Optics Installer Certification provides the individual with an in-depth understanding of optical fiber installation splicing and testing. The certification will make the candidate better equipped to install connectors on various types of optic cables.

Certified Fiber Optics Technician (CFOT)

The Fiber Optics Technician certification will give the professional a better understanding of handling a fiber optics system.

Certified Premises Cabling Technician (CPCT)

This is specially designed for candidates who will maintain the installation of fiber, copper cable, and wireless in a working environment. The certification will help the candidates who work with enterprise networks. It improves the security management skills of the professional.

Certified Fiber Optics Specialist (CFOS)

This certification has two options for the installer. The skill-based certification deals with the installation and troubleshooting of the fiber optics cable. An application-based certification focuses on the specific application of fiber optic cabling.

Fiber Optics Installer Salary

As per the Indeed salary estimate, on an average, the Fiber Optics Installer salary ranges from approximately 220.65 per hour for Entry Level Installer to R 296.22per hour for Field Service Engineer. According to Glassdoor.com, the national average salary of the Fiber Optics Installer is R492656.77 in the South Africa.

Career Opportunities

The career opportunities seem to be bright as there is expected to be an increase of 14 percent between The Occupational Outlook Handbook projects state that the work opportunities will grow due to the extensive usage of the internet and communications in addition to installations and ongoing maintenance.

How do I become a fiber optic installer?

Basic Qualifications For Fiber Optics Technicians

Technical knowledge of communications networks.

Troubleshooting and mechanical skills.

Fundamental knowledge of computers and associated electronic systems.

Skill with a variety of hand tools and power tools.

Ability to operate large equipment.

What education is needed to become a fiber optic technician In South Africa?

Career Requirements

Degree LevelHigh school diploma or equivalent; optional apprenticeships and certificate programs are available
Degree FieldBroadband cable, broadband technology
CertificationVoluntary certification available; may be offered by an apprenticeship

How much do Fibre optic technicians earn in South Africa?

R186,054 (ZAR)/yr.

What is Fibre optics course In South Africa ?

The course provides knowledge of optical fiber waveguide at fundamental level, essentials of an optical fiber communication system and understanding of various components of an optical fiber telecommunication system.

Is fiber optic splicing a good career?

You can earn an annual average salary of R 773533.70 as a Fiber Optic Splicer. There is also a job growth rate of 4%, which is a good start. Some of the skills and knowledge include Hand Tools, OSP, Otdr, Bucket Truck, and Fiber Optic. So it’s better if you know these things and are knowledgeable on these aspects.

What does a Fibre optic technician do In South Africa?

Install, troubleshoot, and maintain fiber optic systems. May create sensors and perform optical inspections. Measure signal strength to ensure adequate performance.

How long does it take to become a fiber optic splicer In South Africa?

What is the length of the program? This program is a 7 weeks, 5 day program. There is 7 weeks of online blended learning and a 5 day period of hands on, boot camp style simulation training. Within those 5 days, you will splice, trench and learn what is required for in the field work.

How do I get certified to splice fiber optic cable In South Africa?

To qualify for the CFOS/O certification, a CFOT plus two years of field experience are required, including documented experience installing and testing OSP fiber optic networks. Training by employers, manufacturers or vendors of cabling products will be recognized as part of the experience requirements.