Working for a cable company as an installer, programming assistant or repair technician often means starting at the bottom and working upwards. There are specialized positions available within the industry that do not require past experience with a certain employer, but a deep knowledge of the overall cable industry is desirable. Many of the management personnel employed with major cable and internet providers started out their career as a repair or installation tech.Skills Needed For Industry AdvancementPostsecondary education in the area of telecommunications is a great plus when considering a career in the cable TV industry. Trade schools or technical colleges offer undergraduate degree programs in communications with an emphasis on the TV and Internet niches. Those who have an understanding of how cable TV works and how it reaches the public from the transmission sites is also important.Some basic computer programming education is also a plus. Employers within the industry are also interested in past experience dealing directly with the public. Nearly everything relating to cable industry jobs is centered around the customer base, and having experience in customer relations is desirable.Getting Started In The IndustryA lower level position as an installation recruit is not a bad way to enter this field. The knowledge gained through the experience of connecting customers to the Internet or cable service is invaluable. The direct dealing with the public will also go a long ways toward finding advancement opportunities. Relocation may be required for some positions, however. Many new employees will have to find work where there is a need for additional installation or customer service personnel.Customer service in the form of call centers is rapidly being outsourced around the globe, but some of the major service providers have numerous job openings for emergency response dispatchers and troubleshooting technicians. Online chat help with service reps and technicians is very popular as a means for resolving issues with the Internet or cable connection, and these assistance personnel are paid very well for their knowledge and ability to quickly resolve the issue.Salary Levels For Cable Industry WorkersEntry level technicians and installers generally earn less than $35,000 per year to start. But the advancement opportunities in the industry are virtually limitless. The company benefits offered by large Internet and cable providers are usually excellent. Some of the larger providers have a pension program that remains in force even if the provider merges with another company or is bought out.