2

Entry Level Cable Installer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Entry Level Cable Installer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$13

$21

$37

How much do entry level cable installer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cable installer in Columbia, SC is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level cable installer do?

An entry level cable installer is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and repairing cable television, internet, and phone lines for residential and commercial customers. Their duties typically include running cables, connecting equipment, troubleshooting service issues, and ensuring compliance with technical standards. They work both indoors and outdoors, often interacting directly with customers to ensure their services are properly installed and functioning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cable installer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cable Installer, you need basic electrical knowledge, manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, cable testing equipment, and sometimes industry certifications like BICSI Installer 1 is beneficial. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a customer-focused attitude help installers excel in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and reliable cable installations that meet customer needs and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level cable installers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level cable installers often face challenges such as working in tight or awkward spaces, dealing with varying weather conditions, and learning to use specialized tools and equipment safely. Effective communication with customers and team members is also essential, especially when troubleshooting issues on-site. Overcoming these challenges involves thorough training, attention to safety protocols, and developing strong problem-solving skills; many employers provide mentorship or on-the-job training to help new installers build confidence and technical expertise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cable Installer vs Cable Technician?

AspectEntry Level Cable InstallerCable Technician
CertificationsBasic cable installation certifications, OSHA safety trainingAdvanced certifications may be required, such as BICSI or industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentResidential and small commercial sites, outdoor and indoorMore complex installations, troubleshooting, and maintenance in various settings
Job ResponsibilitiesInstalling cables, connecting outlets, basic troubleshootingDiagnosing issues, repairing, upgrading systems, detailed troubleshooting

The main difference between an Entry Level Cable Installer and a Cable Technician lies in the complexity of tasks and required certifications. Entry Level Cable Installers focus on basic installation work, while Cable Technicians handle more advanced troubleshooting and repairs. Both roles are essential in the cable industry, with the technician position typically requiring more experience and certifications.

How do you become an entry level cable installer?

To become an entry-level cable installer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic technical skills. Training is often provided on the job, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures is important; some employers may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work flexible hours.

How much do entry level cable installers make?

Entry level cable installers typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the employer, and the job often involves installing and repairing cable systems in residential or commercial settings.

Is being an entry level cable installer hard?

Entry level cable installers typically perform physically demanding work, such as climbing ladders and working outdoors, and require basic technical skills. The job often involves learning to use tools and understanding safety protocols, but with training, it is generally manageable for those willing to learn and work hard.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cable Installer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cable Installer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Cable Installer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Cable Installer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cable Installer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,914 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Underground Construction Personnel

Utility Lines Construction Services, LLC

Lexington, SC • On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Utility Lines Construction Services rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Utility Lines Construction Services

Job Title: Underground Construction Personnel

Job Description: An entry-level position building towards a career in constructing, maintaining, and repairing underground fiber optic infrastructure.

Pay:

  • Competitive/Hourly – Discussed During Interview Process

Benefits:

  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Short/Long Term Disability
  • Matching 401(k) Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • FR Clothing Provided
  • Employee Payroll Deduction Program
  • Company Paid Fiber Optics Education/Training

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Perform new construction, maintenance or repair work of energized and de-energized underground fiber optic systems following the company established Safety and Health standards from the ground level.
  • Ability to solve problems with unidentified circumstances in any job.
  • Ensure daily testing and inspection of assigned tools and equipment.
  • Maintain company equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Excavates to assist in the installation of structures or cable as required by ITS contract specification.
  • Participates in company training of all regional safety guidelines and is required to perform all work by the regional safety policies.
  • Operates various tools for the work (manual digging devices, wrenches, hammers, come-alongs, jack hammer and handline etc.).
  • All other duties as required or requested by Supervisors.
  • Reports all potential equipment and crew safety hazards to Foreperson

Minimum Qualification:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Ability to:
    1. Follow directions, work safely & productively
    2. Solving problems with unidentified circumstances in any job
    3. Identify, operate and service all required tools and equipment
      • bucket truck, digger derrick truck, hand tamp, chain saw, concrete saw, shovel, and weed eater

Education and Experience:

  • Be able to provide proof of work experience, schooling, and any certifications that you have obtained during your career.
  • Prior underground utility or construction work will be considered for advancement.


 Traveling Requirements:

  • Willing to travel in-state with overnight stays for contract work.

Driver License:

  • A Valid Driver’s license is required with willingness to obtain valid CDL within 90 days of employment. If you are unable to obtain CDL, please discuss this during the interview process.

Safety:

  • Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods of time, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8 or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally. 

Pre-Screen:

  • Upon offer, employees will be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

Physical requirements: 

  • Rarely (less than 10%): Sitting, Crawling, and Climbing Poles
  • Occasionally (up to 33%): Stooping, Kneeling, Squatting, Body Twisting, Sense of Touch, Range of Motion, Pushing, Climbing Ladders, Climbing Stairs, Balancing, and Lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Frequently (up to 66 %): Walking, Manual Dexterity, Seeing Distant, Climbing On/Off Truck, Gripping, Lifting Over 10 lbs. up to 50 lbs., Reaching, Depth Perception, Lifting, Carrying, and Pulling.
  • Continuously (up to 100%): Standing, Speaking Clearly, Seeing, Hearing-Speech Range, Color Vision, Lifting Up to 10 lbs.

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.


What Utility Lines Construction Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom