Company: Andrew Corp., an Orland Park-based designer, manufacturer and supplier of communications equipment, services and systems
Salary range for this job: $22,000 to $43,000
Time on this job: 1 year
Previous jobs: I was a small cable fitter at Andrew, and before that, I was a patient service representative at Silver Cross Hospital.
Age: 26
Education: I’m working toward an associate’s degree in science at Joliet Junior College.
How I got this job: I saw the job posted internally and applied for it.
Why I took this job: I looked forward to the challenges and responsibilities that would help further my development at the company.
Main responsibilities: I weld, jacket and test coaxial cable, which are the last three steps of making cable before it’s sent to customers. Customers, including Motorola, Lucent and AT&T, use the cable for transmission lines for various communication systems, including computers, broadcast and cell phones. First, I manually use a torch to weld together a flat piece of metal that curls around the cable. Then, I use a computerized machine to push a jacket over the cable. There are different sized cables, and the specifications vary for each one. I enter the specifications into the computer, such as the cable’s length and the machine’s speed, so it operates properly with that size. Then, using a computerized machine, I do various tests on the cable, such as high-voltage, frequency and pulse. When I perform a pulse test, for example, I hook up the cable to the machine, and the computer generates a read-out telling me what’s passing or failing.
Best thing about the job: The varied responsibilities and having good relationships and good teamwork with the people I work with.
Worst thing about the job: There’s growing competition in this industry, and there’s still a lot to learn. Sometimes you feel the weight of responsibility to continually improve.
My ideal next job: I’d like to have a role that’s constantly challenging and that expands my mind. Maybe a position in management or training.
Advice to job seekers in this field: If you really want something, go after it. Don’t give it up, and keep a positive attitude. Take advantage of the schooling and training programs that the company offers.
