Communications Equipment Operators, All Other Salary and Career Guide (2025)
Communications Equipment Operators, All Other earn a median annual salary of $54,680, according to the latest BLS data. The mean wage is $62,130, or about $26 per hour. The top 10% earn up to $94,640, while the bottom 10% make around $38,900. With only 1,200 jobs nationwide, this is a small occupation—but it offers competitive pay for those with technical skills.
How much Communications Equipment Operators, All Other earn
The national median salary for Communications Equipment Operators, All Other is $54,680. Half of workers earn between $38,900 (10th percentile) and $94,640 (90th percentile). The mean hourly wage is about $26. Salaries vary significantly by experience, location, and industry.
- Median annual wage: $54,680
- Mean hourly wage: ~$26
- 10th percentile: $38,900
- 90th percentile: $94,640
Pay by state
Missouri leads with an average salary of $87,030, well above the national mean. California follows at $79,450, then Texas at $58,410. Massachusetts and Minnesota both average $54,500, close to the median. On the lower end, Louisiana pays $48,560, Ohio $47,360, and North Carolina $46,430. Location clearly matters: the spread between Missouri and North Carolina is over $40,000.
How to become Communications Equipment Operators, All Other
This role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers prefer an associate degree in communications or electronics. On-the-job training is common, lasting a few weeks to several months. Key skills include attention to detail, technical aptitude, and the ability to operate specialized communication equipment. Certifications are generally not required but can be beneficial—for example, from the Electronics Technicians Association or similar bodies. Entry-level positions are often available through telecommunications companies or government agencies.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED
- Consider an associate degree in communications technology or electronics
- Apply for entry-level operator jobs at telecom firms or government agencies
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 1–3 months)
- Optional: obtain certification from ETA or other industry groups
Job outlook
Employment for Communications Equipment Operators, All Other is projected to grow 2.5% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This translates to roughly 100 job openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. Competition may be moderate given the small size of the occupation. Those with strong skills in digital communication systems will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the job outlook for Communications Equipment Operators, All Other?
The BLS projects 2.5% growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average. Around 100 openings per year are expected.
How much do Communications Equipment Operators, All Other make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $26, according to BLS data. Median annual salary is $54,680.
What education do I need to become a Communications Equipment Operator?
A high school diploma is the minimum. An associate degree in electronics or communications can improve prospects. Most training is on the job.
Which states pay the highest for this occupation?
Missouri ($87,030), California ($79,450), and Texas ($58,410) are the top-paying states, per BLS.
Is this a growing field?
Yes, but slowly. The 2.5% growth rate is about average, with limited total employment (1,200 jobs nationally).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Communications Equipment Operators, All Other data.