A satellite installer is someone who installs a dish on someone’s property in order to receive direct television or Internet broadcasts from a satellite. In addition to the dish installation, there is usually some sort of reception box that must be configured. A large part of the job entails determining the best installation strategy on each individual’s property, taking into account all of the unique aspects of the location as well as the satellite’s position in the sky. In general, a satellite installer will either work for the company that manufactures the dish or for a subcontracting firm.
The first step in a satellite installer’s job is usually determining where the dish will be installed. There may be trees or other obstructions that block satellite reception in some cases, and the installer must find the best location to avoid these issues. Installing the dish on the side of a person’s house or putting a pole into the ground to raise it to a specific height is sometimes necessary. A satellite installer will also need to be familiar with the various methods for securing the dish, whether it is to the house or to a pole in the person’s yard. In some cases, the process necessitates the placement of cement in the ground, and a ground wire is usually installed to protect the unit from lightning storms.
The installer usually has to fine-tune the reception once the dish is in place. This usually entails making minor adjustments to the dish’s direction while looking at a small monitor with a reception readout. Most companies require that wire be run into the person’s home, and most companies require that this be done in a professional manner. For example, the installer may need to dig a trench to bury the wire and drill into the house to make a hole for the wire to be brought inside.
In addition to these responsibilities, a satellite installer will typically require good interpersonal skills. Entering someone’s home is a big part of the job. The installer must understand how to avoid making the person feel uncomfortable and must show a high level of respect for the privacy of the person. People can be rude at times, and the installer is often expected to put up with it to some extent.