atcomsystems.ca/forum Forums General General Telephone & Systems Information Technician rates

I am new to hiring sub-contractors (not employees), and I was wondering the going rates were to work with key systems-installing a new system, and/or repair. I have some idea, but could use some comparisons and advice. Please email me if you have any info.

Thanks

I have been subcontracting for two years, I charge between 35-45 per depending the amount of work. Mostly Toshiba, Panasonic, Mitel, Ericsson, and data networks. On central office jobs I go for 50 per hour. On smaller contracts I charge 65 per hour.
Good luck.

Thank you.

I'm surprised that the data work is priced the same as the key systems. Around here in the SF Bay area, the data is usually a bit more than the voice work. No difference in the rate for programming, say,dialing restrictions and COS a DID block on a system, and installing RJ11 jacks? (I'm trying to say advanced programming vs wire runs w simple jacks)

And what if you need a ladder? Can the batmobile carry one?

In portland Metro area (Oregon)Travel is $45 if within 1 hr, Cabling is $45 if sub, $55 regular. Small system is $65-70 if sub, $80 regular. Mid size systems are $75-80 if sub and $90 if regular. large systems $85-90 if sub and $100 if regular. Data can go any where from $80-$130 if telco's do the work.

These hourly rates are about the same as what it is around SF. In some instances, a percentage of the total profit is warranted, if the sub represents me. The going rate is 40%, but I feel 50%(in some cases) makes for a strong working relationship. In this way, the tech can feel like he's working for himself, and do conscientious work. With percentage or flat rate pay there is no rushing to beat the clock.

i won't show up to the door unless 65 an hour, thats what bugs me the industry is shooting it self down with low ballers. but then they get what they pay for, just an opinion! I strive not only to stay on top of technology, but the end user always wants more more more, Peace!

I agree with stringmachine regarding the lowballers. We don't take any job that comes down the pike and are kind of a "boutique" operation. What kills me is that, by virtue of our experience and efficiency, we can get a job done (troubleshooting, programming, for instance) in far less time than the joker that quotes $15.00-$20.00 less per hour, then it takes them twice as long to get the job done. Result? Customer pays more total dollars. When I've had customers ask me if I'll match rates, I tell them that they've got to make a choice of what kind of work they want done and leave the ball in their court. Sometimes I lose a sale, but I really don't want those people for clients! (Boy, I've been wanting to vent about that for a while!)

I understand only too well!
You have a good point about choosing your clients well. I once made the mistake of advertising on Craigslist and competing with these low-ballers. (I was at $65/hr) There are guys on Craigslist who are charging $45 and hour for phone work. The clients who hire these "bargain basement" HANDYMEN posing as "techs" are just that- "Bargain" hunters.

They will stand behind you with a clock, and at 55 minutes, tell you to finish or stop, because they don't want to pay more than the $45.I have actually had this happen!

They are still not happy. Actually, they want something for nothing. Well-you get what you pay for!

Now- I am back in the $85 hr range- advertising in the Yellow pages with reputable clients who appreciate this low rate. Professional work for professional clients.

In Canada Eh! Mainly Vancouver and surrounding areas, on a build, such as new offices etc, I charge $100 per outlet (from wall plate to block) be it data or tel. So thats about $3 US dollars.

What about facilities services. I have had major contractors (i.e. Wiltel) charge me up to 500.00 hr for Long haul testing (fiber) a couple of years ago. What is the going rate today?