Telecoms engineer

Telecoms engineers install broadband, mobile and landline phone networks and work on satellite, digital TV and fibre optic systems.

In this guide

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a telecoms engineer, you could:

  • set up mobile, fixed communications and data networks
  • repair lines and equipment on mobile masts and antennae
  • lay and test underground and underfloor cabling
  • find and fix faults, including using software remotely
  • design, build and test components and equipment
  • communicate with customers in person, on the phone or 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.

Career path and progression

With training and experience, you could move into:

  • supervisory roles
  • network design
  • electronic engineering
  • smart home systems installation

You could also set up your own installation and repair business.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • maths knowledge
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • 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 competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You might need a full driving licence to travel between jobs.

Most relevant

  • Physics - Telecoms engineers need to understand how electromagnetic waves, signals, and electrical circuits work in order to install and repair communication networks. Concepts like frequency, wavelength, and signal strength are central to working with mobile masts, satellite systems, and fibre optics.
  • Mathematics - Telecoms engineers use maths daily to calculate signal strengths, cable lengths, power loads, and network capacities. They also need to read technical diagrams and work out measurements when laying cabling or positioning equipment.
  • Electronics - Telecoms engineers design, build, and test electronic components and equipment used in communication networks. Understanding how circuits, sensors, and electronic systems function is essential for diagnosing faults and repairing equipment on mobile masts and antennae.
  • Engineering - Telecoms engineers apply engineering principles when setting up mobile, broadband, and data networks. They work with complex infrastructure – from underground cabling to satellite systems – and need to understand how these systems are designed, installed, and maintained.
  • Computer Science - Telecoms engineers use software to remotely diagnose and fix network faults, and they work with operating systems and networking protocols on a regular basis. Understanding how data is transmitted, routed, and managed across digital networks is increasingly important in this role.

Also relevant

  • Design and Technology - Telecoms engineers work with tools and materials to lay cabling, build control panels, and install equipment in a range of environments. Practical skills like reading technical plans, problem-solving on site, and working safely with your hands are used on every job.
  • Business - Telecoms engineers often progress into supervisory roles or set up their own installation and repair businesses. Understanding how to manage finances, price jobs, and handle customer relationships is valuable for those looking to work independently.

How to become

You can get into this job through a college course or an apprenticeship.

You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills needed for the job and might help you find a trainee position with a telecoms company.

Relevant courses include:

  • Level 2 Award in Communications Cabling
  • Level 3 Diploma in Professional 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

You may need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

More Information

You could do a:

  • Telecoms Field Operative 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

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 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

More Information

Further information

You can find out more about careers in engineering from Tomorrow's Engineers.

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