Whatever your hands finds good to do, do with your very power! No skill or knowledge is a waste, copper is going to be here for a little while so get the training and make your money.
Rates goes from hourly to units depending on the season, demand and supply. On hourly, a good tech can make $4000 plus, weekly and $2500-$3000 on units.
It will take you at least a month to fully learn the copper plant where you are working no matter your experience and training. I do train both copper repair and fiber splicing, PM me and I will get you up to speed.