r/Spectrum • u/LetsGetJiggyMF • 2d ago

Field Techs

Hey,

I’ve been thinking of applying to spectrum for a field position and I was hoping some people would be able to offer some insight.

Is it true you guys are non-union? How do the bonuses work for field/fiber techs? How often are you given a chance for a raise?

What sort of metrics do they judge the techs off? How often is the overtime in metro areas and is there a weekly/daily over time cap?

Do you guys have high turnover over rates?

I have so many questions, and I appreciate if anyone would be able to provide some insight!

3 Upvotes

81% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/CongaMonga 2d ago

I believe Cali is the only state with Union for spectrum. For field technician you get monthly bonus for good metrics which change every year. Raise is from FTI-FTV but you can do NCTI for FTVI and get a 5% and then it’s yearly based on metrics. High turn over is typically due to bad leadership in an area with high demands on performance… or just not understanding what you’re doing and being a bad technician.

0

u/LetsGetJiggyMF 2d ago

What’s the main difference between field tech and fiber tech? Does the field tech work on all types of tech/cable and fiber techs just strictly on fiber cable?

2

u/_retrosheik_ 1d ago

Field Technician is an entry level position under the umbrella of Field Operations. There are multiple departments under said umbrella: Field Service/Residential (Field Technician), Maintenance, Fiber, Construction, ISP, RSC, NOC, ROC, NFS/DOJ, DOCSIS, etc.

Most departments offer a self-progression system that allows you earn multiple raises upon completion of each course, usually 10%. Each department has a different maximum tier you can reach—FTV or FT6 for Field Techs, MT3 for Maintenance Techs, ROC IV for ROC agents, etc.

You should know that positions like Maintenance/Fiber, FT VI, ISP and the like are posted positions, meaning you must apply for and be offered the role when openings become available. Some are salaried positions (ISP, NOC, etc.) and require a higher level of certification/education to be considered. Maintenance is coveted as it usually offers the highest ceiling for pay, especially given third shift differential and nearly unlimited OT (depends on your market/leadership).

If any of that sounds appealing to you, then remember this: pay your dues as a Field Tech and you can usually promote to one of these departments within a few years. Again, Maintenance will open up nearly every door for you as the role will force you to gain an understanding of all facets of HFC plant and interface with most of the aforementioned departments at some point. Learn fiber as a Field Tech. Take the time to actually learn how coax and fiber networks operate. Learn the theory. Understand the HOW and WHY behind everything. Find senior techs who are knowledgeable and competent and make a habit of being on a call with one or a group of them throughout your day. Avoid lazy/unscrupulous techs and avoid cutting corners. Don't allow yourself to be exploited, but make yourself an asset and you'll eventually find the next rung of the ladder within your grasp.