Telecoms engineer
Telecoms engineers install and repair broadband and phone networks, satellite dishes and digital TV and fibre optic systems.
Also known as: Telecoms technician, telecommunications field engineer, satellite installer
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£40,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 42 a week
What you'll do
As a telecoms engineer, you could:
- create layout plans for data networks, cabling and equipment
- set up or upgrade mobile and fixed communication networks
- repair overhead lines and equipment on mobile masts and antennae
- lay and test underground cabling, fibre optics and connections
- install and adjust settings for satellite dish systems on domestic and commercial buildings
- find and fix faults on site, or remotely using diagnostic software
- speak with customers in person, on the phone and online
Working environment
You could work at a client's home or at a client's business.
Your working environment may be at height, cramped, outdoors in all weathers and you'll travel often.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- the ability to work well with your hands
- analytical thinking skills
- customer service skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a telecoms engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- training with a professional body
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills needed for the job and might help you to find a trainee position with a telecoms company.
Relevant courses include:
- communications cabling
- electrical and electronic engineering
- competence for IT and telecoms professionals
- T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
- T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a telecoms company. These include:
- Hardware, Network and Infrastructure Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship
- Telecoms Field Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Wireless Communications Rigger Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Network Cable Installer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Radio Network Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Cellular Network Field Engineer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
Direct application
You can apply directly to installation companies if you have experience or qualifications in:
- telecommunications
- electronic or electrical engineering
- electrical equipment servicing
Other routes
You can do introductory courses in satellite dish and aerial installation through the Confederation of Aerial Industries. These could be useful if you want to get started in the industry.
Foundation apprenticeship
You can apply for a foundation apprenticeship if you're aged 16 to 21.
If you're aged 22 to 24, you can apply if you:
- have an education, health and care (EHC) plan
- are in care or have been in care
- are in prison or have been in prison
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- no specific qualifications or experience to apply for a foundation apprenticeship
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- have a full driving licence
Career path and progression
With training and experience, you could move into:
- supervisory roles
- telecoms network design
- electronic engineering
- smart home systems installation
You could also set up your own installation and repair business.
Career tips
Employers will expect you to be well organised, good at solving problems and able to manage your time.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) for industry news, networking and professional development opportunities.
Guides for this industry
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