Radio Technician Education Requirements and Career Info
Radio technicians test, maintain and repair radio communications equipment and systems. Formal education or technical training is typically needed for entry-level positions in the field.
Education Requirements for Radio Technicians
Completion of some form of postsecondary education in an area such as information technology, electronics or computer networking is preferred by most employers. Training is available through certificate, associate's and bachelor's degree programs. Also, some related business, such as equipment manufacturing companies, offer technical training programs. On-the-job training often supplements the formal education of newly hired radio technicians.
Program Details
Certificate and associate degree programs train students in the Enhanced Digital Access Communication System (EDACS), electronics technology, circuit theory, components, radio frequency and communications. Bachelor's degree programs also cover engineering theories. Internships and assistantships provide hands-on training in radio communications maintenance, as well as system repair and troubleshooting experience in 2-way radios, digital microwaves and mobile radios.
Career Information for Radio Technicians
Radio technicians are responsible for the installation of radios, repeaters, microwave systems and networks including towers, antennas, generators and fuel systems. They maintain radio transmitting and receiving equipment and systems. Radio techs also create plans for radio communication installations and expansions, as well as develop recommendations and upgrades for customers. Communication skills are required for dealing with agencies and vendors.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), little change in employment is projected for telecommunications and radio workers involved in installation and repair from 2008 through 2018 (www.bls.gov). However, those with some form of postsecondary training under their belt are expected to fare better. Radio technicians, or mechanics, earned an average annual salary of approximately $42,500 as of May 2008, per the BLS.
Licensure and Certification Requirements
Prior to placement in entry-level positions most employers prefer applicants to be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Licensing exams cover radio law, maintenance practices, FCC regulations and electronic fundamentals. Certification may also be necessary. Relevant certifications for radio technicians are available through organizations such as the Telecommunications Industry Association.
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8 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
- California (3 campuses)
- Colorado (2)
- Michigan (2)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Colorado (1 campus)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- California (1 campus)
- Michigan (3 campuses)
- New Jersey (1)
- Ohio (1)
- Texas (2)
- West Virginia (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Non-Degree
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- Diploma in IT Support Specialist
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 17 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Non-Degree
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- Career Diploma - Basic Electronics
- Career Diploma - Computer Service & Repair: Hardware
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School locations:
- New York (3 campuses)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Associate
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- Associate in Electrical Technology
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-
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Bachelor
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Distance Learning Programs
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Non-Degree
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- Career Diploma: Basic Electronics
- Career Diploma: Electronics Technician
- Undergraduate Certificate in Foundation Skills for Technology
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
Other Schools:
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School locations:
- Rhode Island (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at New England Institute of Technology include:
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- Non-Degree: Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Electronic Equipment Repair
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Alaska (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at University of Alaska include:
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- Graduate: Master
- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Computer Installation and Repair
- Electronic Equipment Repair
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Refrigeration Maintenance
- Heavy Equipment Maintenance
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
