External Line Worker (Communication Line)
がいせんこう（つうしんせん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Field worker who performs installation, laying, maintenance, and inspection of communication lines. Lays telephone lines and fiber optic cables on utility poles or underground to support communication infrastructure.
Description
External line workers (communication lines) are specialized field workers who lay and string communication lines such as telephone lines, fiber optic cables, and LAN cables via utility poles or underground conduits, and perform subsequent inspections and fault responses. On site, they use aerial work platforms or small cranes to conduct fiber optic splicing with fusion splicers, aging tests, and quality checks using signal measuring instruments. In addition to new installations, they handle removal and replacement of deteriorated cables and disaster recovery operations, making safety measures and consideration for the surrounding environment essential.
Future Outlook
Demand remains stable due to 5G base station construction and fiber optic infrastructure expansion. Maintenance demand is also increasing with the spread of smart cities and IoT, requiring adaptation to new technologies such as drone inspections.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Good cooperativeness / Physically fit / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
External Line Worker Apprentice → External Line Worker → Team Leader → Site Supervisor → Construction Department Manager
Required Skills
Aerial Work Platform Operation / Cable Laying Techniques / Communication Line Measurement and Inspection / Crane Operation / Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing / Slinging Skills
Recommended Skills
CAD Drawing Interpretation / English (Manual Reading) / GPS Surveying Equipment Operation / IT Network Fundamentals
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Due to the need to quickly respond to changes in weather and site conditions. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Cable misconnections or construction errors directly lead to communication failures. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Fieldwork involving heavy equipment operation and high-altitude tasks is common, requiring physical stamina. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Work procedures and specifications are standardized, with few creative tasks. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Involves only measurements and length adjustments, with few advanced calculations. |
Related Qualifications
- Aerial Work Platform Operation Skills Training
- Electrical Communications Works Supervisor
- Second-Class Electrician
- Slinging Skills Training
Aliases
- Communication Line Laying Worker
- Communication Line Stringing Worker
Related Jobs
- Electrician
- Internal Line Worker
- Overhead Line Worker