It generally takes about 5 years to go from the bottom to the top of the pay scale. Because of low job turnover in these occupations, many workers earn salaries near the top of the pay scale. Most line installers and cable splicers belong to unions, principally the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. For these workers, union contracts set wage rates, wage increases, and the time needed to advance from one step to the next. These contracts require extra pay for overtime and all work on Sundays and holidays.
Most contracts provide for additional pay for night work.
Time in service determines the length of paid vacations. Depending on job locality, there are 9 to 12 holidays a year. Related Occupations Workers in other skilled crafts and trades who work with tools and machines include communications equipment mechanics , biomedical equipment technicians, telephone installers and repairers , electricians , and sound technicians. Sources of Additional Information For more details about employment opportunities, contact the telephone or electric power company in your community or local offices of the unions that represent these workers. Telephone Association,1401 H St. NW., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005-2136.