The tech that regulaly works on my dish installs and troubleshooting tells a very similar story. They aren't payed all that well and the higher gas prices aren't helping either.
it really depends on the type of company that is doing the hiring.
I work for an RSP (Regional Service Provider) and most of our guys do "piecework" meaning they are paid by the job. not by the hour. guys that use thier own vehicle (POV) get paid more but must pay for thier own veh gas/maintenace. those that operate company vehicles (COV) get paid a little less, but dont pay for gas/maintenance. All of the employees are provided all equipment and supplies to do the job (with the exception of personal tools).
POV's can work straight from home and must have internet.
COV's must start at the shop and end at the shop everyday.
Great Techs earn over $70,000 gross per year here.
Average Techs earn around $40k annually.
Newbies and bad performers make far less.
Its all up to the guy to get er done.
Its good work if you are creative, a good "generalist", a self-starter, motivated, and can "hang".
Its not for everybody - some guys try it and fail miserably.