Telecommunications Technician
What is the work like?
As a telecommunications technician, you would install, set up, test and repair communications and datacommunications systems. These systems can include:
- fixed-line and mobile telephony networks
- copper wire and fibre-optic cabling
- analogue and digital satellite systems
- wireless radio networks, providing internet and email access via PCs laptops, mobile phones and PDAs.
Your work could vary in size and scale from setting up a communications network within a large organisation, to the installation of a home satellite system. Your duties could include:
- laying, connecting and testing underground and underfloor cabling
- testing and repairing faults in public and private switching exchanges
- working with aerial rigging and related equipment
- installing mobile and static antennae on buildings or masts
- designing, building and testing telecommunications components and equipment.
See the profile for Satellite Systems Technician for more information about satellite installation.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You may be able to start work as a telecommunications technician through an Apprenticeship with an electronics, telecommunications or IT firm. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You might be able to get a trainee position with an installation company if you already have experience and/or qualifications in electronic or electrical engineering, or servicing. You could take a college course to gain qualifications in these areas, such as:
- Edexcel (BTEC) National Certificate/Diploma in Communications Technology
- City & Guilds (3666) Communications Cabling award (covers copper and fibre optics cabling)
- City & Guilds (3662) Diploma in ICT Communications Systems.
See the e-skills website for general information about careers in the telecommunications industry.
What further training and development can I do?
Once employed, you would recive on-the-job training. You may be encouraged by your employer to work towards various qualifications, such as:
- NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Maintenance (Communication Electronics)
- BTEC HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering (Communication)
- foundation degrees, HNCs/HNDs and degree courses in telecommunications, data communications and digital communications.
With a level 3 NVQ, you could improve your career prospects by applying for registration with the Engineering Council to gain Engineering Technician (EngTech) status.
You can find more information about training and qualifications on the Fibreoptic Industry Association website, aimed at technicians working in cabling design and installation.
Further professional development training is available through the Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI). These courses are recognised within the national and international telecoms sector. The introductory levels are open to anyone looking to get into the industry. See the BICSI website for details.
Where can I go for more information?
1 Castle LaneLondon
SW1E 6DR
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- New starters can earn from £12,000 to £15,000 a year.
- With experience and qualifications, earnings can rise to between £18,000 and £25,000.
- Technicians with planning, design or managerial duties can earn up to £40,000.
Earnings can increase with shift allowances and overtime.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. You may also have on-call duties to cover off-peak hours and emergencies.
Your work could be inside on production lines and on customers' premises, or outdoors on a site. Some jobs may involve working at heights.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a methodical approach and attention to detail
- good problem-solving skills
- technical and practical skills
- good communication skills to explain technical matters in clear terms
- the ability to read technical drawings, cabling plans and circuit diagrams
- a willingness to keep up to date with new developments in technology
- good customer care skills
- the ability to work alone or as part of a team
- a reasonable level of fitness and normal colour vision
- a knowledge of health and safety issues.
What opportunities are there?
There are almost 300,000 people employed in the telecommunications industry, with around a fifth working as technicians and engineers. Increasingly, with the merging of data (IT) and telecommunications systems, demand is increasing for technicians who have skills in both fields, especially wireless broadband technologies.
You could work for a wide range of organisations, such as telephone and broadband network providers, mobile phone operators, cable, satellite and digital TV companies, rail signal engineering and power transmission firms.
You could also find opportunities with the Ministry of Defence, the armed forces, and the police and emergency services.
With proven experience, skills and further training, you could progress from installation and repair work to network planning and design, research and development of new products and project management.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
JustEngineers.net
Engineering Jobs Network
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