Is a career in Telecommunications Equipment a viable choice in 2021? What is the job market like for telecommunications equipment professionals? Which roles in the field offer the highest earning potential? Let’s delve into these questions in detail.
The telecommunications industry is experiencing substantial growth, with global revenue expected to reach 1.5 trillion in 2022. Financial experts predict that emerging technologies such as 5G, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things will be instrumental in driving the industry’s expansion.
For millennials contemplating a career change or embarking on a telecommunications career, specializing in equipment-related roles could be a lucrative option. The technologies revolutionizing the telecommunications sector primarily involve wireless and mobile technologies.
Do you think that telecommunications are a great profession?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates varying job prospects for professionals in the telecommunications industry. While technicians involved in the installation and repair of telecommunications equipment, as well as electricians and electronics installers and repairers, may face a decline in opportunities, other roles such as audio and broadcast engineering technicians and line installers and repairers are projected to see growth. Here’s a concise overview of the expected job outlook and median salaries according to the BLS:
- Installation and Repair of Telecommunications Equipment:
- Job opportunities are predicted to decrease by 13,100 between 2018 and 2028.
- Median wage: $57,910 annually or $27.84 per hour in 2019.
- Audio and Broadcast Engineering Technicians:
- Job opportunities are expected to increase by 8% between 2018 and 2028, creating 11,500 new jobs.
- Median annual salary: $45,510 or $21.88 per hour in 2019.
- Installers of Electrical and Electronic Equipment and Repairers:
- Job outlook is predicted to show little or no change between 2018 and 2028.
- Expected job loss of 1,500.
- Median pay: $59,080 annually or $28.40 per hour in 2019.
- Line Installers and Repairers:
- Job opportunities are expected to increase by 4% from 2018 to 2028, resulting in 10,700 new jobs.
- Average salary: $65,700 annually or $31.59 per hour in 2019.
Is Telecommunications a Good Career
Choosing a career in telecommunications is considered an excellent decision due to the continuous growth and development of the field, driven by rapid technological advancements. With the ongoing competition among companies to provide superior wireless technology and efficient internet services, the industry is thriving. While the entertainment sector remains prominent, technological advancements are rapidly expanding, offering diverse opportunities.
Success in this field is attainable with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in teams. Although there are currently ample opportunities for installing lines and devices, it’s anticipated that these roles may decline as society increasingly relies on wireless devices.
Career Path and Salary for Telecommunications Technicians and Installers:
- The telecommunications industry is evolving rapidly with technological advancements.
- Growing competition among companies to offer superior wireless technology and efficient internet services.
- The entertainment sector remains significant, but technological advancements contribute to industry expansion.
- Success in the sector requires strong problem-solving skills and effective teamwork.
- Ample opportunities currently exist for installing lines and devices.
- Anticipated decline in such roles as society increasingly relies on wireless devices.
What Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers Do
Telecommunications technicians, commonly known as repairers and installers of telecom equipment, are responsible for installing and maintaining devices that transmit communication signals. They also play a crucial role in connecting phone lines and facilitating Internet connectivity.
Education Required
Telecom technicians typically need postsecondary training in areas such as telecommunications, electronics, and computer networking. Postsecondary programs usually include courses covering information transmission, data communications systems, AC/DC electrical circuits, and computer programming.
Training Required
Upon employment, telecom workers undergo on-the-job training, typically lasting for several weeks to a few months. The training program includes a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience under the guidance of an experienced technician.
During this training, technicians learn about the components of the equipment and the tools necessary for equipment repair. Those with postsecondary training generally require less on-the-job training compared to those without such qualifications.
How to Become a Telecommunications Equipment Installer or Repairer
Repairers and installers of telecommunications equipment generally need postsecondary education in fields such as electronics, communications, or computer technology. On-the-job training is also provided, and some positions may require industry certifications.
Telecommunications Equipment: What You Need To Know?
Telecom technicians responsible for setting up equipment install, remove, rearrange, or replace routing and distribution, switching, and dialing equipment in central offices and headends. They undergo on-the-job training, typically lasting for a few weeks or months.
The specific duties of telecom technicians vary based on their job roles and specializations. Many technicians utilize diagnostic equipment, specialized hardware, and computer systems in their work.
The demand for customer service agents, telecom equipment installers, and engineers is gradually increasing and is expected to rise in the near future.
Key Responsibilities of Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers:
- Install communication equipment in private homes and building structures.
- Rearrange, set up, and modify equipment for dialing and routing purposes.
- Inspect and maintain equipment, including wires, phones, and jacks.
- Repair or replace defective, damaged, or malfunctioning equipment.
- Test repaired, newly installed, and upgraded equipment to ensure effective functionality.
- Set up or calibrate equipment to optimize performance.
- Maintain accurate records of repairs, maintenance, and installations.
Explain the operation of equipment to customers.
Telecommunications technicians utilize various tools, such as spectrum analyzers and Polarity probes, to inspect equipment and identify issues. Hand tools like screwdrivers and pliers may also be employed for equipment removal and repair.
Job Description of Telecommunications Technicians: Telecom engineers typically handle the following responsibilities:
- Installing telecommunications equipment and related appliances.
- Monitoring, maintaining, and erecting aerial and underground cables and wires.
- Connecting cables, sealing, and applying sheaths.
- Linking cabling to radio transmission, internet transmission, and phone systems.
- Testing and adjusting electronic equipment.
- Connecting wires and cables to appliances.
- Identifying faults in telecommunications equipment using ammeters, voltmeters, and Ohmmeters.
- Reviewing specifications, work zones, and drawings to establish connections and positions.
Many telecom technicians rely on computers, specialized hardware, and other diagnostic devices in their work. They follow manufacturers’ instructions or technical guides for installing or updating programs and software on their devices.
Telecommunications equipment repairers and installers working at client sites maintain records of their working hours, components used, and associated costs. Those involved in installing and maintaining lines outdoors are categorized as line repairers and installers.
Specific tasks undertaken by telecom technicians depend on their expertise and the location where they perform their work.
Is Telecommunications Equipment A Good Career Path?
Certainly. Telecom technicians typically need higher education in computer science, telecommunications, and electronics. They get the opportunity to collaborate with experienced technicians, enhancing their skills in the process.
Telecom technicians are responsible for maintaining and upgrading company systems, assessing customer needs, and implementing telecommunication systems that meet these requirements.
Additional attributes and skills beneficial to telecommunication technicians include physical fitness, strong communication abilities, and attention to detail. To enter this field, an official certificate in Telecommunication Technology and a degree are required.
Work Environment
Telecom equipment installers and repairers are commonly employed in central offices or electronic service centers. They may also work at the homes and offices of clients. Some technicians may be required to travel regularly to repair and installation sites.
How Many Jobs Are Available In Telecommunications Equipment?
The telecommunications equipment industry currently offers over 10,000 positions, and this number is expected to increase shortly. The roles and responsibilities in each industry within the telecommunications equipment sector vary significantly. Without further delay, let’s explore the top-paying jobs in the telecommunications equipment sector.
Job Outlook
The forecast indicates a 4 percent decline in the number of telecom equipment repairers and installers from 2014 to 2024. The demand for mobile and wireless services, which often require less setup, contributes to this decrease. However, job opportunities may arise from the need to replace employees who leave their positions. Candidates holding a two-year degree and possessing excellent customer service skills are more likely to secure employment in this field.
The Final Verdict
Is a career in Telecommunications Equipment a viable option in 2021? Having gained insight into the desirability of the telecommunications industry and the potential benefits it offers, feel free to express your opinions in the comment section below! Opting for a career in this field might prove to be a strategic decision for advancing your professional journey.
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be disclosed. Mandatory fields are marked *
Name *
Email *
Website
Comment *
Save my name, email, and website for future comments.
About Tech Client
TechClient is an autonomous web magazine based in the United States, committed to producing top-quality content sourced from various corners of the web – encompassing subjects ranging from technology to design.