Southern Cross Campus
Telecommunications Engineer Mataaro Whitiwhiti Kōrero
Telecommunications engineers design, test and build telecommunications networks and systems.
Telecommunications engineers may do some or all of the following:
- analyse customers' telecommunications needs
- design and update telecommunications equipment and systems
- build and test prototypes of new equipment
- test and repair equipment
- make sure equipment meets regulations
- give advice on suitable equipment, such as computer servers, and costs
- supervise the installation and use of telecommunications equipment
- provide training for users of new equipment
- prepare and present reports and proposals.
Physical Requirements
Telecommunications engineers need to:
- have normal colour vision to distinguish between different circuits and cables
- have steady hands
- be comfortable working in confined spaces or at heights.
Useful Experience
Useful experience for telecommunications engineers includes:
- engineering
- computing
- telecommunications work.
Personal Qualities
Telecommunications engineers need to be:
- logical, critical thinkers
- good at problem solving and decision making
- good at spoken and written communication
- disciplined, patient and well organised
- able to make good judgements and work well under pressure.
Skills
Telecommunications engineers need to have:
- knowledge of electronics, communication systems and mechanics
- knowledge of engineering methods, technology and industry trends
- understanding of telecommunications rules and standards
- design skills, and ability to interpret drawings and designs.
Conditions
Telecommunications engineers:
- usually work regular business hours, but may also work evenings and weekends, and be on call
- work in offices and laboratories, and inside or outside at work sites
- may work at heights, in confined spaces, and in dirty or dusty conditions
- may travel locally.
Subject Recommendations
NCEA Level 3 is required to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include maths, physics and digital technologies.
Related Courses
Telecommunications Engineers can earn around $60K-$65K per year.
Chances of getting a job as a Telecommunications Engineer are good due to a shortage of people interested in this type of work.
Pay for telecommunications engineers varies depending on experience and what type of work they do.
- Telecommunications engineers with up to three years' experience usually earn $60,000 to $65,000 a year.
- Those with three to seven years' experience usually earn $65,000 to $85,000.
- Telecommunications engineers or managers with over seven years' experience can earn up to $140,000.
Sources: Hays and Potentia, 2020.
Telecommunications engineers may progress into managerial roles.
Years Of Training
2-4 years of training usually required.To become a telecommunications engineer you need to have a certificate, diploma or degree in telecommunications, electrical and electronic engineering, or computer science.
Some employers offer cadetships, which allow you to study for a qualification while working.
The New Zealand Army offers training for recruits who want to become engineers specialising in telecommunications.
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