Telecommunications engineering specialists design voice, video, and data communications systems to keep users connected. They install equipment incorporating copper or fiber optic cabling, complex networks, and switching systems, to transmit phone, cable, and broadband data. Telecommunications engineering specialists’ projects range from installing phone systems, automated teller machines and alarms for a bank, to large scale projects such as overseeing the installation of fiber optic cabling to bring broadband data access to a region. They troubleshoot and resolve problems related to all types of telecom systems, install both hardware and software, and document the systems they maintain. Telecommunication system security looms large in this field; they perform regular system backups to prevent down time or data loss. When disaster strikes a system, from a single business to a large city or region, they help to recover the area’s phone and broadband systems. Keeping up to date on new technology is expected. Telecommunications engineering specialists work in a variety of organizations, including city governments, school districts, healthcare facilities, and utilities. Work schedules often exceed 40 hours a week. Requirements vary depending on the position’s scope, and range from a technical certificate to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in electronics, computer science, or a related field, along with related work experience.
What they do:
Design or configure wired, wireless, and satellite communications systems for voice, video, and data services. Supervise installation, service, and maintenance.
On the job, you would:
Consult with users, administrators, and engineers to identify business and technical requirements for proposed system modifications or technology purchases.
Implement system renovation projects in collaboration with technical staff, engineering consultants, installers, and vendors.
Keep abreast of changes in industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.
Communications
telecommunications
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Arts and Humanities
English language
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
notice when problems happen
order or arrange things
Math
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
Produced by 
License
